SMBC Lev Fin/Project Finance (London) vs HSBC Lev Fin/Project Finance (Tokyo)

I have an offer from SMBC and have a say in which group to join. I'm interested in Lev Fin so will most likely join there if I decide to go to SMBC in London.
The second option is the grad programme for CIB at HSBC Tokyo. Mainly corporate banking but has products like Leverage and Acquisition Finance, Infra finance, project finance etc.

Want to maximise exit opps ideally to private credit or an infra fund. I understand I would probs have to make an intermediate move to another bank but which option would open more doors?

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6 Comments

WSO Monkey Bot

O

3mo

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's what you need to know:

SMBC Lev Fin/Project Finance (London):
- SMBC in London is well-regarded for its expertise in project finance, particularly in infrastructure and renewables. These sectors are highly specialized and valued by infrastructure funds.
- Leveraged finance at SMBC could also provide a pathway to private credit, as the skillset overlaps significantly with credit analysis and structuring, which are critical in private credit roles.
- London is a global financial hub, offering broader networking opportunities and exposure to international deals, which can enhance your profile for exit opportunities.
HSBC Lev Fin/Project Finance (Tokyo):
- HSBC Tokyo offers exposure to a variety of products, including leveraged finance, acquisition finance, and project finance. However, the focus may lean more towards corporate banking, which might not provide as direct a pathway to private credit or infrastructure funds.
- Tokyo's financial market is more regionally focused, which could limit your exposure to global opportunities compared to London. However, if you have a strong interest in the Asian market, this could be a strategic advantage.

Key Considerations for Exit Opportunities:

Private Credit: Leveraged finance experience is highly relevant for private credit roles. SMBC London, with its focus on leveraged finance, might provide a more direct route.
Infrastructure Funds: Both roles could lead to infrastructure funds, but SMBC's strong reputation in project finance, particularly in renewables, might give you an edge.
Intermediate Move: If you're planning an intermediate move to another bank, London offers a larger pool of opportunities and a more dynamic job market.

Recommendation:

If your primary goal is to maximize exit opportunities to private credit or an infrastructure fund, SMBC Lev Fin/Project Finance in London is likely the better choice. The combination of specialized experience, global exposure, and London's financial ecosystem aligns more closely with your long-term goals.

Sources: Leveraged Finance – 2017 Update, Leveraged Finance – 2017 Update, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/corporate/project-finance-exit-opportunities?customgpt=1

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Gainone1572

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3mo

Ppl in Hsbc's cib program do make move to IB teams, very common in HK not so sure abt JPN but u can always lateral since ur japanese who can speak english.

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Spitfire.6490

O

3mo

Gainone1572
Ppl in Hsbc's cib program do make move to IB teams, very common in HK not so sure abt JPN but u can always lateral since ur japanese who can speak English.

Do you have any examples of where hsbc CIB program ppl end up going to? Firm and team as well

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Gainone1572

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3mo

Coverage, Levfin, dcm, SF etc mostly internal lateral

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Spitfire.6490

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3mo

when you said ppl from cib program, were they in corporate banking? or more on the investment banking side. because my program is primarily corporate banking.

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Gainone1572

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3mo

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SMBC Lev Fin/Project Finance (London) vs HSBC Lev Fin/Project Finance (Tokyo)

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Key Considerations for Exit Opportunities:

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SMBC Lev Fin/Project Finance (London) vs HSBC Lev Fin/Project Finance (Tokyo)

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