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I think the point is that whether you go to Q, Bain or Ares frankly doesn’t matter. You’ll get opportunities to interview at all of the funds that OP listed. I’m sure Q is a great place, but I’m not sure if it makes sense to debate exit opps for these roles. By way of the job, you will be a better investor coming out of an Analyst program at Bain or Ares. I don’t think any number of sell side tech M&A deals will give you the same experience of being an investor. I’m sure working with Microsoft or Google is exciting because it’s a big deal, but at the end of the day, you’re still a banker at Q. It’s great job for sure, but just know the role that you’re signing up for if the goal is to be on the buy side.

 

I interviewed with Bain for another location (funds are by geography) and 1 didn’t like their investment style much, 2 they didn’t come across as smart as I was expecting (not that they’re not, just didn’t impress me as much as other MF or UMM firms). Can’t provide any color on Ares.

In the end are both 2 great brands, Bain a notch above, but I’d go with what interests you the most, as the work will differ a lot

 

They only look at sexy and expensive companies for which they are not afraid to overpay. they run an extensive market diligence. The value generation comes mostly from revenue growth, another thing that does not excite me particularly

I simply don’t think it’s the best way to make money as you almost do not have an edge in case the consumer behavior changes or the market shrinks bc of unexpected events - but this is my personal opinion

Never said “not smart enough” - they definitely are smart enough, just had better impression from Bx, APO, Cinven etc. but again personal opinion only

 

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