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Based on the most helpful WSO content, Financial Institutions Group (FIG) verticals like Fintech and Specialty Finance are often considered top choices for Private Equity (PE) and Hedge Fund (HF) exits. These areas are highly attractive due to their growth potential, innovation, and relevance to evolving market trends.

Other verticals like Asset Management (AM) and Insurance can also provide solid exit opportunities, but they may not be as dynamic or in demand as Fintech and Specialty Finance. Banks, while foundational, might not offer the same level of appeal for PE/HF exits compared to the other verticals.

If you're targeting a top FIG group at GS, JPM, or MS, focusing on Fintech or Specialty Finance could maximize your chances for lucrative buy-side opportunities.

Sources: Breakdown of Post-IB Exit Opportunities, Breakdown of Post-IB Exit Opportunities, Public Finance best verticals for exit opps, Jefferies SA 2023, Top groups at BOFA London

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 
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I’d advise against above advice on doing EBITDA driven business unless you’re dead set on PE

Fintech/Payment is dead end in public and is only a pod shop knife fight with no real money chasing. Insurance broker only works for PE boring roll up stories. 

If you’re a bit more academic in nature and interested in public, I’d pick probably banks, insurance. You build more niche skills as long as you’re willing to learn and grind. 

Dummies can learn EBITDA based business in a few weeks.

 

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