Have done multiple internship roles across PE, IB, and Consulting
Currently an IB analyst at Top 3 US BB in Singapore / Hong Kong
Feel free to ask any questions, especially on the landscape in Singapore, Hong Kong and IB vs PE vs Consulting
I am also a Mentor at WSO
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Hi! I would like to ask how's the investment banking landscape in SG compared with in HK? Recently GC market is pretty down v.s. SEA appears to be much better. How is the IB daily work / language requirements / exit opportunities differ in SG compared to HK, and is there any possibility(have you seen) people transfer from HK to SG? Appreciate any insights!
There are less roles here in SG vs HK. Pay is lower than SG, while living cost is higher in HK.
There is no diff on the work scope, although you likely need chinese in HK, and SEA languange is beneficial in SG
transfering from HK to SG is definitely possible, as long firm want to hire foreigner - there is no issue in terms of quality etc since hk or sg has equal requirements
Hi! What are the typical exit options for SG IBD? Heard it is tough to exit to PE without a pay cut (even at MFs). Also how feasible is it to recruit for buy-side roles in London and US with a SG IBD background? Thanks!
Obvious answers would be corporate or buyside.
Pay difference is always dependent on the firm, how you negotiate, your previous firm and when you exactly exit (2 years experience or <1y experience)
On exiting to Western countries, not so common, but worth trying - issue is more on whether firm willing to sponsor visa. But i dont see any issue in terms of skillsets etc
Thanks! Any idea on AN1 salaries for BB in SG and how do they typically scale across AN2, AN3/AS0, AS1
Based on the most helpful WSO content, it seems you've got quite the diverse experience in the finance world! Here's a bit of what you might expect from an Investment Banking Analyst role at a top US Bulge Bracket in Singapore or Hong Kong:
Work Scope: As an analyst, you'll be heavily involved in preparing pitch books, financial modeling, and various forms of financial analysis. Your day might include updating financial models, coordinating information flow, and assisting with client requests.
Hours: The role is notorious for long hours, sometimes stretching into all-nighters, especially during busy periods or when working on a big deal.
Learning and Development: The position is a steep learning curve but offers immense learning opportunities in financial modeling and valuation.
Compensation: The pay is competitive, reflecting the demanding nature of the job. Bonuses can be substantial, depending on performance and the firm's profitability.
Culture and Environment: The culture can be intense, with a strong focus on performance. However, this varies by firm and even by the team within the firm.
Exit Opportunities: After a couple of years, investment banking analysts often have excellent exit opportunities, whether it's moving to the buy-side, such as private equity or hedge funds, or pursuing an MBA.
Lifestyle: Given the demanding hours, maintaining a work-life balance can be challenging, but it's not impossible. It's all about time management and setting the right expectations.
As a mentor at WSO, you're in a prime position to guide those looking to break into the industry, especially with your background in PE and consulting as well. Your insights into the differences in work-life balance, the skills required, and the overall culture in IB vs PE vs Consulting would be invaluable to mentees.
If you're looking to discuss more about the landscape in Singapore and Hong Kong, or the nuances between the industries, feel free to dive into the details!
Sources: Investment Banking Analyst: A True Day in the Life, Accounting vs Finance: Part 1 – Career Paths, Q&A: 3rd Year Private Bank Analyst, Accounting vs Finance: Part 1 – Career Paths, How to answer "what does an investment banker do?"
Hi! What exactly is the recruiting process in SG like? Did you come from a local Big 3 uni or are you foreign? I matriculate into SMU as a global impact scholar soon and have a bunch of questions regarding your trajectory and experience if you’ll indulge me. Thank you for doing this!
It always start with hirevue or pscyhometric test. Afterwards, you will get the first face to face interview with analyst/ associate and then more interview with the seniors. Some banks would go through a group interview or case study
if you come from the big 3 uni, dont worry about the school as that is sufficient. If you are foreigner, some banks might not like it given that they need to sponsor you. Other than, its a luck and skills game
Hello! Im currently an Singaporean undergraduate studying at a non-target University (SIM UOL). Do you have any advise for someone like me who wants to break into banking? Specificially an Equity Analyst role??
Similar with other school, go for internship and cold email as many firms as possible or connect with the full timer
equity analyst you mean equity research? Unfortunately, this role isnt that common, and banks only hire very few of them - consider expanding the options
What's your bonus numbers past and present? what are you and your peers expecting going forward?
hi! thoughts on the benefits to rent/own property in singapore in the future?
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