What would you say the pace of IB is? How long does a deal take? If deals take longer, do you ever get bored of the same deal? Can you be working on multiple things at once, and do you find that to be better and more engaging than just one?
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The pace of investment banking can vary significantly depending on the type of deal, the bank, and the market conditions. Here's a breakdown based on the most helpful WSO content:
How Long Does a Deal Take?
Deals can take anywhere from a few months to over a year to close. For example, M&A deals often involve extensive due diligence, negotiations, and regulatory approvals, which can stretch timelines. Smaller deals (e.g., $50M-$500M range) might move faster than larger, more complex transactions.
Do Deals Get Boring?
It's possible to feel a sense of monotony if you're stuck on a single deal for an extended period, especially if progress is slow. However, the complexity and variety of tasks—like creating marketing materials, identifying buyers, and strategizing—can keep things engaging for many.
Working on Multiple Deals at Once?
Yes, it's common to juggle multiple deals or projects simultaneously. For instance, at elite boutiques (EBs), bankers often handle more deals per year compared to bulge brackets (BBs), as deal counts are spread across smaller teams. This can be more engaging as it provides exposure to different industries, clients, and deal types, keeping the work dynamic.
Is It Better to Work on Multiple Deals?
Many find working on multiple deals more stimulating because it prevents burnout from focusing on a single project for too long. It also helps develop a broader skill set and provides more "at-bats," which is especially valuable for junior bankers looking to gain experience.
In summary, the pace of IB is fast and demanding, with multiple overlapping projects often being the norm. While deals can sometimes drag on, the variety and intensity of the work generally keep things engaging.
Sources: What is life like at no-Bulge Bracket Investment banks?, boutique v BB, Why so serious?, Undergraduate Opportunities - Credit Funds
Analyst doing private M&A only, in tech / media. Answers to your questions based on my coverage below:
What would you say the pace of IB is?
How long does a deal take?
If deals take longer, do you ever get bored of the same deal?
Can you be working on multiple things at once, and do you find that to be better and more engaging than just one?
How many live deals are u staffed on, 2-3? My EB (MOE/EVR) is 3 per analyst and it’s impossible man
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