Hi, I reached out and was invited to interview at one of those new finance AI startups (Hebbia AI, Rogo, etc). I currently make all in ~$415k at my UMM pe fund, and not yet feeling the burnout or intention to leave asap. I assume I will get shoved out and will not make VP.
I have the potential to just coast and collect $400k+ for 2 more years. Should I instead take the hot AI startup? Thoughts?
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Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some key considerations for your situation:
Compensation vs. Risk: At your UMM PE fund, you're earning a solid $415k with relative stability for at least two more years. Transitioning to a startup, especially in AI, often comes with higher risk. While startups like Hebbia AI or Rogo AI might offer equity and the potential for outsized returns, there's no guarantee of success. Consider whether you're comfortable trading stability for the possibility of a big payout down the line.
Career Trajectory: If you're not feeling the burnout and can coast for two more years, you might want to leverage that time to build additional skills or network further. However, if you believe you won't make VP and are looking for a fresh challenge, joining a hot AI startup could position you in a cutting-edge field with significant growth potential.
AI Startup Dynamics: Startups in the AI space, particularly those intersecting with finance, are gaining traction. However, as noted in WSO threads, the AI field can be unpredictable. Success often depends on the startup's leadership, funding, and ability to differentiate in a crowded market. Research the specific startup's track record, funding rounds, and leadership team before making a decision.
Equity vs. Cash: Startups often compensate with equity-heavy packages. While this can be lucrative if the company succeeds, it may not match your current cash compensation in the short term. Evaluate the equity offer carefully and consider how it aligns with your financial goals.
Passion and Long-Term Goals: If you're genuinely interested in AI and see it as a field where you want to grow long-term, this could be a great opportunity. However, if your primary motivation is compensation, you might want to weigh whether the potential upside justifies the risk.
Ultimately, the decision hinges on your risk tolerance, interest in AI, and long-term career aspirations. If you're intrigued by the startup world and willing to take on the uncertainty, it could be a rewarding move. If not, staying in PE for a couple more years while exploring other options might be the safer bet.
Sources: Tech As An Alternative to Finance, Tech As An Alternative to Finance, Lesser known MBA career options? Looking for advice on what to do post-HBS., Transitioning from tech to a serious finance job (yes, you read that right), Should I leave IB?
Hebbia is being sold for scraps fyi (high revenue but no engagement)
-- quite literally have heard people at funds trying to find uses for it but being unable
-- have used product myself and can confirm it is the worst product i have ever used
Rogo has a retarded product and nobody uses it (again high revenue but no engagement)
The openai backed one (endex) is very literally a fraud (raised money from OpenAI by showing them fake revenue). To date, they have no revenue lol.
Don’t go to hebbia or rogo
Both of their products suck and the companies are road kill vs Claude. And the people I know who’ve gone to these startups are bottom bucket talent
Also i think this post is a stealth ad… it would be straight up retarded for someone making ~$415k at a UMM pefund to go to one of these companies.
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