PE vs IB job security
I guess the working hours at a BB investment bank and a MF PE firm are pretty similar.
Which one has better job security?
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BB IB
How common are layoffs in PE, particularly for entry/junior-level?
Not common but upward mobility is rough
Usually let go of 25% of the asso class at year 1 (to be clear not my decision and don’t like it)
Do you have to stay at the same PE firm for two years? Otherwise, would it be difficult to move to another PE firm? I’m thinking about moving back home to be closer to my family after one year.
For the last few years, the PE hiring market in terms of most opportunities -> least opportunities is (1) Associate (including laterals), (2) Senior Associate and then (3) VP
So if you want to move PE shops, I'd do so sooner rather than later for better chances (i.e. start interviewing once you approach 1-year mark at your first PE firm). More spots overall for experienced Associates, although some firms might make you "re-do" a year (not that big of a deal in the grand scheme IMO especially if it checks all your other boxes)
If in both scenarios you assume you’re a good performer, BB 100%. In addition to upwards mobility being way better, if you get fired you don’t have to worry that much as you’ll most likely find another spot given the myriad of banks (that actually need people, unlike most PE firms nowadays where the middle level lateral is quite frozen
Is it difficult to move to another firm after only one year of experience in IB or PE?
For a new college graduate, which would be the better choice: BB IB or a Tier 1 mega-fund PE firm?
Are these question hypothetical or do you have something at hand? It’s just a mental exercise otherwise - do you have an offer for a MFPE analyst role? There’s not many of those
If you don’t have it then stop sweating. It’s like with girls - you can only go out with the ones that call you back
100% on the girl part. Not every baddie (MF PE / BB IB) you match with on Tinder/Hinge will end up replying to you / you'll actually get to go on a date with her.
Real situation.
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