Where is the highest upside? Quant or L/S equity space?

As the question above states, where do you think the highest upside is?

For someone with a technical degree background, which of the two has higher barriers to entry?

Which role is easier to maintain? Does stress differ much between the two?

Your views on the longevity of each role in the next 10/20 years..

I am really interested in comparing the two roles in holistic terms

4 Comments
 

I believe it’s in L/S not only because it’s been here but because I think quant space is going to get overcrowded and returns won’t be that great. As far as comp goes for analyst positions on the quant side they’ve been going to mid six figures typically under a million from what people say on here. L/S 500k-750k is the avg all in comp after a few years. Either way though no one will pay you more than you’ll pay yourself.

 

Do you not think that technology will develop and potentially creep into the fundamental space in the next 10 years? I know it is far off currently but I have even heard of researchers trying to use factor investing methods even in the PE space.

Here is an article about a new fund, started by ex-Winton CIO, using the 'quantamental approach': https://citywire.co.uk/wealth-manager/news/ex-winton-cios-new-boutique-…

Here is the PE article: https://www.ft.com/content/766b7042-5c6a-11e9-9dde-7aedca0a081a

 

I don’t doubt that it will just the L/S HFs who had to lower their fees because of low performance I think they’ll definitely take a hit and more closures but the ones left standing will be better.

 

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