Do people recruit for s&t roles anymore?

Sounds like S&T is a bunch of algorithms and programs now instead of people doing trades? Every networking session seems to have a few guys from S&T with like 3 people lining up to chat, different from IB which has the rest of the room eager to chat with the team. Anyone else notice this or know why?

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Based on the most helpful WSO content, it's true that the landscape of Sales & Trading (S&T) has been changing due to automation and digitization. Here's a bit more color on the situation:

  1. Automation and Digitization: There's no denying that S&T, especially on the trading side, has seen a significant shift towards automation. Equities trading, for example, has been heavily automated, which has reduced the need for traditional traders.

  2. The Role of Sales: Despite the automation in trading, the sales roles within S&T still require a human touch. Sales professionals in S&T maintain relationships with clients, provide market insights, and offer the bank's execution services. They rely on strong communication and interpersonal skills.

  3. Recruitment: Firms do still recruit for S&T roles, but the focus may be shifting towards candidates with a combination of market knowledge and technical skills, given the industry's evolution.

  4. Networking Interest: The observation that fewer people line up to chat with S&T professionals compared to IB might be due to a couple of factors:

    • Perception of S&T: As automation grows, there might be a perception that there are fewer opportunities in S&T compared to IB.
    • Interest Alignment: Many candidates may be drawn to IB due to its deal-making aspect, perceived prestige, and the clear career path it offers.
  5. Why S&T Still Matters: Despite these changes, S&T remains a critical function within banks. It's about providing liquidity, executing trades, and managing risk. The skills required for S&T are evolving, but the sector still offers rewarding careers for those interested in markets and trading.

If you're considering a career in S&T, it's important to stay informed about industry trends and consider developing a skill set that aligns with the future of trading, which includes a blend of market acumen and technical prowess.

Sources: What do S&T people actually do?, 2019/2020 Sales & Trading Bonus Discussion, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/should-i-pursue-st-or-ib?customgpt=1, Does sales in S&T require a quant background or programming skills?, Sales in S&T vs (Tech) Sales

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Maybe because people nowadays are expected to be better at the technicals (math, programming), not for all but for quite a few roles within S&T. Since a lot of people don't have that kind of skillset/ background, they try to get into another high paying role for which they might have a chance. 

 

Media/news coverage has been pushing S&T dying, automation etc, probably affecting people's choices the most.

 
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