Trading vs Quant Trading vs Banking

Okay so first question: I know the difference between a trader and a banker but what is the difference between a quant trader and a regular trader, assuming they're both at equally prestigious firms? Which one ultimately makes more ( I know trading's a meritocracy, but in general, which one?)

Now for the big one: If you had a BA in Comp Science and a BS in Electrical Engineering and were perfectly capable of the quanty stuff, which would you rather be? Banker? Trader? or Quant trader? Please list reasons

4 Comments
 

Depending on the firm, the title of Quant Trader could mean anything ranging from desk analytics to high frequency trader. Depends on the job description.

Trading > Banking in most cases if you want something "quanty".

 
aintnospamDepending on the firm, the title of Quant Trader could mean anything ranging from desk analytics to high frequency trader. Depends on the job description.

Trading > Banking in most cases if you want something "quanty".

Or just a trader for a more complex product...?

To the OP, what are you interested in doing? They are all FO positions. Why not do what you're most interested in doing?

 
Best Response

To my knowledge Quant traders are usually dealing with high freq. trading and creating 'trading systems' as opposed to trading at a desk. It is more mathematically and statistically intensive.

'Regular Traders' is a pretty broad term as there are all different types of desks that exist. I suggest you read 'The New Market Wizards' if you want to learn about different kinds of traders and strategies they use. A really good read.

 

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