Jefferies vs. Macquarie

I was wondering what you guys thought was a better option between these two banks? I have an offer outstanding with Jefferies and an interview with Macquarie coming up. It is in Macquarie's investment banking group in NYC to be clear. I appreciate the insight.

14 Comments
 

I wouldn't say that Jeffries has a better reputation on the street than Macquarie. Jeffries is a good firm that is a more full service investment bank. Neither of these firms is at the top of the game (I should know).

If you want the breath of experience, go there. If you like infrastructure go to Macquarie. Yes Mac has been hurt in reputation quite a bit by the downturn (with most of its assets being in the toilet), but who cares you won't be on the funds side.

If you have the time on your Jeffries offer, take the interview with Mac, what do you have to lose. Banking is not about prestige when you are talking about marginal firms like these. Figure out which firm has a culture you like and then accept an offer.

--There are stupid questions, so think first.
 
Best Response

Maq shed a lot of people, including a lot of people with 1 yr in; the recent hiring surge at that bank shows a total lack of foresight.

Jefferies is a really solid shop - no mass layoffs, minimal exposure to subprime, and awesome deal flow. Their comp is at the top of the street. And now that they've acquired UBS HC, they could go toe-to-toe with BBs on some bigger (non-middle market) deals.

Jefferies also has a really fratty culture - it's sort of known as the last bastion of old-school culture. I like that sort of thing, and my buddies their are all really happy with it - but make sure that appeals to you. I'd be reluctant to go in as a girl.

 

Do you mean institutional investor?

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