Thoughts on Moelis LA?

Moelis LA is widely regarded as one of the top groups in the Los Angeles investment banking scene, and here's a breakdown based on the most helpful WSO content:

Culture

• The Moelis LA office is known for having a slightly more casual and laid-back culture compared to NYC. Analysts have described it as tight-knit, with juniors forming close bonds due to the smaller class size (around 8-9 analysts per year).
• While the culture is more relaxed (some analysts even surf in the mornings), the work ethic remains strong, and the office is still considered a "sweatshop" by some due to the demanding hours.

Hours

• Expect long hours, as is typical in investment banking. However, the smaller team size and close-knit environment may make the experience more collaborative and less hierarchical compared to NYC.

PE Exits

• Moelis LA is famous for its private equity exits, particularly to mega-funds (MFs) and upper middle-market (UMM) funds. Analysts have landed roles at top firms like KKR, Apollo, Vista, Centerbridge, and Oaktree. The office's reputation for strong exits is comparable to elite groups like PJT RSSG and Evercore M&A.
• The smaller class size and exclusivity of the LA office contribute to its strong placement record.

A2A (Analyst to Associate)

• While Moelis LA offers strong exit opportunities, the A2A path is also an option for those who want to stay in banking. The generalist program provides exposure to various industries, which can be beneficial for long-term career growth.

LA Life

• Los Angeles offers a unique lifestyle compared to NYC. The weather, access to beaches, and entertainment scene make it an attractive location for those who value work-life balance (as much as possible in IB). If you're interested in media and entertainment, LA is a hub for these industries, which aligns well with your interests.

Non-Finance Exits

• While the focus is on finance exits, the LA office's exposure to media, entertainment, and sports deals could open doors to roles in these industries. However, non-finance exits are less common and would likely require networking and additional effort on your part.

Comparison to Moelis NYC

• Culture: NYC is more traditional and buttoned-up, with a larger analyst class (around 35-40 analysts per year). The LA office, in contrast, is more casual and close-knit.
• Deal Flow: LA focuses on M&A with a strong emphasis on media, entertainment, and sports, while NYC has a broader focus, including restructuring.
• Exits: Both offices offer strong exits, but LA's smaller class size and exclusivity may give analysts a slight edge in terms of placement at top funds.

Media and Entertainment Coverage

• Moelis LA has a notable focus on media, entertainment, and sports deals, which aligns with your interests. The generalist program allows you to gain exposure to these industries while also working on deals in other sectors like tech, industrials, and consumer & retail.

In summary, Moelis LA is an excellent choice, especially if you're interested in media and entertainment. The strong culture, elite PE exits, and unique LA lifestyle make it a standout option. If you're still unsure about your long-term goals, the generalist program and exposure to various industries will give you flexibility to explore different paths.

Sources: Guide to LA IB Scene (2023 Edition), Los Angeles IB, Moelis NY in 2020? Top Groups? Exits?, Moelis LA dying?, Moelis LA vs Moelis NY. How do they compare in terms of exit opps and career projection? What would you choose?