What's it like to work in The City of London?

Question

I am thinking of possibly working in The City, either in Investment Banking, asset management, or anything else really that I can do with an economics/finance degree (I am still a bit confused). What do you guys say it's like? I hear that investment banking is extremely stressful, you're not in a nice environment and have little to no personal life. However, I know that there are other jobs in The City, too, that I'd like to explore. I preferably want a job that I enjoy, however, that does pay a very large amount, when you're at the top of your career (six-figure salary).

Let me know your thoughts!

Gumball3000 · Accepted Answer

I grew up as a country boy and moved to London in my early years, before moving back home, and then moving to NYC.
London is great if you want to enjoy big city life, with all the glamour and opportunities that come along with it. I started off in IBD and thought of it as interesting, challenging and complex - stressful it was not. You put in the hours when you are young, but you'd do that in many other industries as well. Is there unpaid overtime and are you going to spend many late nights at the office? You bet.

Gumball3000 · Answer

- there are a lot of people in the same space (crowded)

- work is generally interesting and you will meet capable/cool people

- employment law is the same as elsewhere in the UK, there is a notice period

- yes, people will be laid off if necessary (you will have more protection than in the US, but less than in France or Germany)

- the commute sucks, even if you live nearby.

Zatopek · Answer

Yeah rent anywhere decent will def be £1,000-£1200 sharing or £1500+ for your own place...and at those prices you are not getting anything fancy, just a decent place in a decent area. Forget buying for a long time and when you do you will have to make massive compromises in what you want.

Financially London works out pretty bad for most people I think when you factor in salary v COL but there is a reason people flock to it despite that. Whatever you are interested in, no matter how niche, there will always be something happening in London.

Disjoint · Answer

Think you need to spend some time on this forum making some research before asking such a broad ass question.

"I want to make six figures and not work hard" - go on WSB, take some hot tips and make 2000% on your investment... Average salary in London is £30k for people who want to "not work hard".

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What's it like to work in The City of London?

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