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PWP LA has been growing steadily and has made significant strides in recent years. The office, founded in 2017 by seniors from BofA, has expanded to around 25 people and has diversified its focus beyond its original industrials specialization. They’ve hired three new partners recently, covering areas like Aerospace & Defense (A&D), Power & Utilities (P&U) with energy transition expertise, and software/internet. This diversification provides analysts with exposure to a wide range of verticals.

Culture: The group is described as having a good culture with "chill" people. Compared to Lazard LA, which has a more "fratty" vibe, PWP LA leans towards a more intellectual and "nerdy" atmosphere, driven by both the seniors and the nature of their deal flow.

Exits: Historically, exits have been solid, with placements at a mix of mega-funds (MFs) and primarily top West Coast upper middle-market (UMM) and middle-market (MM) firms. This aligns with the office's growing reputation and deal flow momentum.

Overall, PWP LA seems to be on an upward trajectory, with a strong focus on building out its practice and providing diverse deal experience.

Sources: PWP LA vs Lazard LA, PWP LA, Lazard LA, and Houlihan LA (RX), PWP culture, pay and exits

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Have heard that the ex-LAZ bankers in the LA office are quite good. I do not know if they have actually done any deals recently.

 

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