Industry: Investment Banking
Investment banking uses analysis to determine the monetary worth of a company mainly used for acquisition or merging purposes. Although the industry has experienced a tremendous amount of upheaval over the last few years, the investment banking industry is still considered one of the last traditionally focused industries.
Positions within the industry include sales, analysis, and corporate finance. Investment banking is no longer separated from commercial banking so clients can now perform all their banking duties in one stop. However, the down fall of the industry in the 1920s is often attributed to the consolidation of investment and commercial banks. Investment banks act as the middle man in investment transactions by securing the stocks before they are purchased by the public. Many investment banks offer analysis on stocks to solidify and enhance the decision of the purchaser. These analysis presentations come at a high cost, but knowing the value of what you are buying, investing, or acquiring can be priceless information.
Goldman Sachs is one of the most prestigious investment managing firms located in New York City where most of the big name investment banks are located. Location is essential for financial institutions such as investment banks because a high flow of population activity is necessary to gain clients and credibility. Investment banks need to be at the heart of the activity in cities in order to be abreast of current trends or public concerns. Investment banks have gone through many scandals because in this industry when the money is good, it can be really good if individuals take advantage of the system. Many laws, fines, and punishments have been put in place to minimize further financial fraud, but the impact of the outcome is still yet to be seen.
Working in investment banking is all about the money. In the investment banking industry work experience is crucial, but obtaining a drive to succeed is essential. Investment banking requires long hours, early morning calls, and high competition for the end of the year bonus. Salaries in the investment banking industry start around $40,000 and can range high into six figure incomes. Working up in the investment banking industry will require patience in dealing with the many managers you will have while balancing multiple investment projects and humility as you fetch lunch orders without any recognition. However, once you move up, you can have first pick for projects and can send your intern to fetch your lunch. Although promotion and bonuses are enticing, the work of investment bankers can be tedious, boring, and unfulfilling.
Investment banking is a traditional industry in which integrity, hard work, and commitment are highly valued along with a drive to succeed. Individuals who have the desire to put in the extra effort will be able to get the bonus and the promotion, but your social life will most likely be extinct. Fortunately your accomplishments will not go unnoticed.
<< BACK TO CAREERS & INDUSTRY HOME
|