What criteria are these banks ranked on?

Based on the most helpful WSO content, the rankings on Wall Street Oasis are derived from a combination of factors, primarily sourced from the WSO Company Database. These rankings aim to provide insights into which investment banks offer the best work environments and career advancement opportunities for junior employees. The criteria include:

1. Work Environment: Evaluations of the overall culture, work-life balance, and support for junior employees.
2. Career Advancement Opportunities: This includes factors like private equity (PE) exits, lateral mobility, and long-term career prospects.
3. Compensation: Salary, bonuses, and overall financial packages are considered.
4. Reputation and Perception: The "aura" or prestige of the bank on the street, which can influence career trajectories.
5. Employee Feedback: Data collected from analysts and associates, reflecting their experiences and satisfaction levels.

While M&A league tables might provide some context, they are not the sole determinant of rankings. For example, a bank like Wells Fargo might perform well in certain league tables but may not rank as highly in terms of prestige, PE exits, or overall employee satisfaction, which are critical factors in the WSO rankings.

Sources: 2014 WSO Community Rankings. Investment Banks (Part 1 of 10): Release Schedule, RANKING: BEST BULGE BRACKET CULTURE, 2020 US M&A League Tables, WSO 2017 Investment Banking Industry Reports Released. Salary, Bonus, Employee Satisfaction, Average Hours Worked and More..., 2020 US M&A League Tables