US Master's (NYU/MIT/UChicago) vs European MSc

Hey everyone,

I'm currently finishing my BSc in Economics at a non-target Swiss university (3.6 GPA), and I'm trying to figure out whether pursuing a Master's in the US would be worth it compared to staying in Europe.

For context, I have two internships in markets/S&T-related roles , including experience at a macro hedge fund. Most of my exposure so far has been to fixed income and special situations, although my long-term goal would be to work at a macro hedge fund, ideally trading rates or FX.

I'm considering Master's programs in the US, particularly NYU, MIT and UChicago, but I'm also looking at European options such as Bocconi, HEC, HSG, Imperial and Cambridge.

I'm genuinely open to relocating to the US, but I'd also be perfectly happy ending up in London, Switzerland or elsewhere in Europe.

A few things I'm trying to understand:

1. How well-regarded are US Master's degrees in European finance recruiting? I assume MIT and UChicago carry significant international recognition, but what about NYU? Would a US Master's provide any meaningful advantage over a top European MSc when recruiting in London or continental Europe?
2. Is the US worth pursuing for someone with my background? Coming from a non-target European undergraduate university, would a strong US Master's realistically open doors to trading desks or macro funds, or would I be better off leveraging my existing experience and recruiting through a European program?
3. How does recruiting actually work at the graduate level in the US? I've read several discussions suggesting that the traditional target/non-target distinction is much less relevant for Master's students, and that recruiting is largely driven by undergraduate pipelines. Is that accurate, particularly for S&T and buy-side roles?
4. How transferable are US degrees and recruiting opportunities back to Europe? If I attended NYU, MIT or UChicago but eventually wanted to work in London or Switzerland, would I be at a disadvantage compared to someone graduating from HEC, Bocconi or Imperial, given their local recruiting networks?

Ultimately, I'm trying to determine whether the additional cost and commitment of pursuing a US Master's would translate into better career opportunities, especially considering that I'm geographically flexible and don't necessarily need to build my career in the US.

Would really appreciate any insights, particularly anyone who has gone through a US Master's program after completing their undergraduate studies in Europe.

Thanks!