UK M&A/IBD what qualifications?

If you’re UK M&A/IBD what qualifications/exams are you being asked to do in your first 1/2 years?

I hear some stuff about CISI, and also series 7 which is more common in the US.

Can you list your tier of bank and then the exam you’ve been asked to do - so I can gauge which I should look at.

I’ll go first MM/UMM M&A, CISI. My mate is EVR and he’s been asked to do CISI Corp fin fundamentals too.

4 Comments
 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, in the UK M&A/IBD space, the qualifications and exams required in the first 1-2 years can vary depending on the bank and its tier. Here's a breakdown:

  1. CISI (Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment):

    • This is the most common qualification in the UK for M&A/IBD professionals.
    • Many banks require the CISI Corporate Finance Fundamentals as a starting point.
    • Some may also ask for additional CISI modules depending on the role and focus.
  2. Series 7:

    • This is more common in the US but may occasionally be required for UK professionals working in firms with significant US operations or cross-border deals.
  3. Bank Tier Examples:

    • MM/UMM M&A: Typically require CISI qualifications, such as Corporate Finance Fundamentals.
    • Elite Boutiques (e.g., EVR): Often require CISI Corporate Finance Fundamentals as well, as mentioned in your example.

If you're preparing for a role in UK M&A/IBD, focusing on CISI qualifications would be a safe and relevant choice.

Sources: https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/investment-banking-in-the-uk-an-overview?customgpt=1, Investment Banking in the UK - An Overview, International Student - Chance of getting an IBD internship in London?, Q&A: London BB IBD to top 3 PE, A Guide for Switching From Commercial Banking to Investment Banking

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