Incoming M&A Advisory at a Big 4 — WSO Courses: yes or no?

Hi,

I'm a final year undergraduate in London, expecting to start work in lead advisory at a Big 4, specifically in FIG M&A, this autumn. I missed out on getting a Graduate Analyst position at BBs and EBs this cycle but am hoping to lateral in 1-2 years (depending on how much experience I get).

Should I spend money on WSO's Modelling/Skill Development courses? Would it be worth it considering M&A at Big 4 might not be as rigorous as an IB? Or I'm wrong and it helps me become more efficient as an analyst and better at my job (how much weight would that have in the bigger picture)? If anyone with prior experience in CF at a Big 4 or who knows someone who got into Banking from Big 4 M&A could shed some light on what kind of work I could expect and how to best prepare for it, that would be much appreciated - thank you! 

5 Comments
 

Currently in M&A at Big4 - would recommend you learn the basics of financial modelling (Comparables, Precedents, LBO, DCF). Unsure about FIG, but in general you won’t do as much modelling as you do at a bank. I would focus on learning the transaction process and think about legal docs such as Locked Box, Completion Accounts and Warranties & Indemnities.

 

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