Investment bankers guide their clients through complicated transactions, identifying and presenting financial risks. An investment banker usually works as part of an investment institute to raise capital for their clients.
Investment banking has the potential to be a rewarding and profitable career path with fast progression opportunities. A career in banking can be a great venture if you enjoy taking risks, thrive in a fast-paced environment, and are skilled in research and analysis.
In addition, investment banking is an appealing career choice for many as it serves as a gateway to numerous financial opportunities and builds both technical and interpersonal skills.
Salary
Due to high demand and a scarce talent pool, investment banks have significantly increased wages for investment bankers in order to secure and retain top talent. With wages rising even at the lower pay scales, entry-level investors can expect six-figure salaries at leading firms.
Salaries and income can vary depending on the organization you work for, the industry you invest in and your location, but all investment bankers can expect to receive a good salary in return for their hard work and dedication. If you're looking to progress in your investment banking career, take a look at our current roles or read our blog on the latest compensation trends in the investment banking industry.
Workload
The average investment banker in the US works between 70 and 100 hours a week depending on their duties and position within their organization. Research shows that investment banker analysts have the largest workload, while managing directors face a lower workload but cater to urgent issues.
Investment bankers are expected to work long hours to meet deadlines and manage client investments where there are large amounts of money at stake. Huge responsibility means they are required to work until the job is complete and unpredictable demands often mean investment bankers work long days.
Bankers are also required to meet with clients, prepare offers, run financial research and analysis, and work on pitchbooks to attract clients.
Investment banking is a demanding role and a potentially stressful job, but the financial reward is often enough to appease and attract talented workers.
Career Progression
According to the Bureau of Labour Statistics, jobs in the investment banking and securities dealing industry are growing faster than the average occupation, meaning that competition is fierce due to increased demand and a lack of skilled labor.
The investment banking career path is well-defined and follows the corporate hierarchy. Traditionally promotions in investment banking were slow to come around but in recent years, investment banks and organizations have decreased this time to incentivize long-term employment.
Typically, an investment banker will enter the industry as an analyst and progress to become an associate, vice president and director, eventually becoming a managing director if they choose to remain on the investment banking career path.
There are excellent exit opportunities at each level in various financial roles including private equity, venture capital, consulting, and hedge funds.
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