Best Desk to get a Return?

Hi, I'm an incoming S&T intern for this summer at JPM/GS/MS (on the FICC side). I know that the bond market currently isn't doing too well overall, but what desks within the FICC space are doing the best right now? 

4 Comments
 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some insights into FICC desks and their performance:

  1. JPMorgan (JPM): JPM is noted for its strength in credit, rates, and FX. These desks are often regarded as top-tier within the FICC space, and they tend to attract the best talent. If you're looking for a strong desk with a good reputation, these areas at JPM could be a solid choice.

  2. Goldman Sachs (GS): GS is recognized for its expertise in rates, equities, and commodities. While it may not be as strong in FX and credit compared to JPM, its rates and commodities desks are highly regarded.

  3. Morgan Stanley (MS): While specific desk strengths for MS aren't highlighted in the context, MS is generally competitive in FICC, particularly in areas like rates and structured products.

Key Considerations:

  • Market Cycles: Desk performance can vary with market conditions. For example, during recessions or downturns, rates desks often perform better due to increased activity in government bonds and interest rate products.
  • Personal Interest: It's crucial to choose a desk that aligns with your interests and strengths. As one WSO thread suggests, chasing "prestige" or "hot desks" isn't always the best strategy. Instead, focus on what you enjoy and where you can excel.

If you're aiming for a return offer, prioritize desks with strong reputations, consistent performance, and a culture that fits your working style. Good luck this summer!

Sources: https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/trading/what-are-the-top-volatility-trading-desks-at-jpm-gs-and-what-differentiates-them?customgpt=1, A Response to "Which desk is best?" Type Questions... Please Read Before Posting, HELP: The Future of the S&T Job Market and Selecting the Right Desk, Top Sales & Trading desks, FICC sales trading desk

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 
Most Helpful

Impossible to tell highly dependent on the firm and its personnel needs. Generally speaking macro desks tend to do better in higher vol environments. Honestly I’d look for desks where somebody recently left or an analyst was recently promoted. As is always the case you will do best on the desk where you like the people/find the product interesting. Trying to optimize for who might be hiring is pretty hard to do. 

 

This is a horrible attitude to have, you can't optimize desk choice beyond a meaningful amount. I learned my intern year and so will you.

 

Est debitis soluta delectus quam vitae natus. Rerum dolores nesciunt possimus culpa beatae. Similique iure sit autem saepe alias quod. Corporis quod quasi ipsa quae. Vitae corporis voluptates rerum accusantium aut illo qui.

Sit voluptas iure nemo dolorum amet et sed. Velit ab aut aut qui. Aut quae quis nihil qui omnis aliquid sequi. Rerum voluptas velit beatae sint eligendi iusto vitae. Aut ad repellat quisquam est fugit placeat.

Career Advancement Opportunities

September 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.5%
  • Moelis & Company 01 98.9%
  • JPMorgan 01 98.4%
  • Goldman Sachs 01 97.8%
  • Morgan Stanley 07 97.3%

Overall Employee Satisfaction

September 2026 Investment Banking

  • Moelis & Company No 99.5%
  • Morgan Stanley 02 98.9%
  • Evercore 01 98.4%
  • Banco Santander 02 97.8%
  • BMO Capital Markets 12 97.3%

Professional Growth Opportunities

September 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.5%
  • Moelis & Company 01 98.9%
  • Morgan Stanley 07 98.4%
  • Goldman Sachs 01 97.8%
  • JPMorgan No 97.3%

Total Avg Compensation

September 2026 Investment Banking

  • Vice President (16) $429
  • Associates (51) $260
  • 3rd+ Year Analyst (8) $210
  • 2nd Year Analyst (26) $182
  • Intern/Summer Associate (14) $159
  • 1st Year Analyst (84) $151
  • Intern/Summer Analyst (76) $101
notes
16 IB Interviews Notes

“... there’s no excuse to not take advantage of the resources out there available to you. Best value for your $ are the...”

Leaderboard

success
From 10 rejections to 1 dream investment banking internship

“... I believe it was the single biggest reason why I ended up with an offer...”