IBD exit is non-existent in Hong Kong

In the past 12 months, once the layoffs in the HK IB scene started, I have applied to hundreds of jobs, not only in PE but also corpdev, IR, corpfin, AM, whatever. I have gotten completely ghosted by the megafunds, I think only two even run a structured 2-year associate programme. The corporate folks told me my salary requirement is too high and without fail always prefer Big4 candidates (they are more technical than us anyways). In addition, no banks are hiring/everyone is firing. I feel completely stuck. IR/AM do not even hand out an interview as they prefer salespeople/IC from private bank. I got completely ghosted.

I thought that IBD would provide so much career optionality/best start to a career in business. But turns out that's not the case for me. If you successfully exited please comment your role/comp, would like to see what's possible.

This post was reposted to the investment banking forum.

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