quant trading (equities)

Hi all, I am currently rotating at different desks at a BB in London as a part of the FT program, and looking at possible options for permanent placement.

One desk I am considering is the quant trading desk in equities. They do backtesting and algos - a mix of agency trades as well as prop. Ideally, I would love to start with FX trading, but they just don't have the headcount now.

So my questions are: 1. How does quant trading compare to traditional trading in terms of money? I know it depends on the P&L and your luck, but as a generalisation, is it a good opportunity?

  1. If I start with this desk, will it be possible to break into FX after a couple of years?

  2. What are the possible exit options?

  3. considering that equities is said to be a declining business with shrinking P&Ls, is it a good idea to enter now or should I keep exploring other opportunities?

As I already have the FT offer, I don't have to rush into a decision, but just want to make the right choice as I begin in the industry.

cheers, S.

4 Comments
 

Interesting question. I also want to know what the more quantitative trading desks are (maths skills etc) vs less quantitative desks are. I have heard Fixed Income and Derivatives are the most quantitative but can someone verify this? Thanks!

 

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