Top BB IB versus LO AM RA program

As the title says have the option to return to a top BB IB coverage group or skip sellside bs altogether and go for a strong lo am ra program instead. I know a lot of folks can only break in to the lo am space after their MBA so grateful for the opportunity but worried about closing optionality as far as operator stuff or privates. I do know I want to be an investor though and am worried IB hours/culture will atrophy my brain.

7 Comments
 

If you want to be in AM(very cushy gig, super underrated) and its a big enough shop to train you, go for it. I know a good number of people that decided to shift from AM to HF and made that move later career too. Downside is mainly that PE is super hard, but if you're not interested in PE then don't worry too much. 

 

From PE recruiting perspective HH do look at buyside programs favourably so it is doable if the RA program is reputable. Ppl have gone from programs like D&C to WP in the past. The reason you dont see as many transitions is a function selection bias + small class sizes at RA.

 

the guy that did is a sweat, not representative of a general person. Just like how you have your rare case of MM -> MF

 

I mean anyone that makes it to MFPE is a fking sweat. I was directly told by HHs and PE principals that reputable buyside programs are viewed more favorably than IB

 

two things - what's the comp difference and also does the firm require an MBA or push associates out after several years, but if your passion is public markets then LO is a good gig and I have seen people transition to HF later (especially from top tier LOs)

 

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