Why did you quit investment banking?

 

Investment Banking Training at Quality Thought

Overview

Step into the world of high finance with Quality Thought’s Investment Banking Program — a specialized training course designed to prepare you for a dynamic career in global finance, mergers and acquisitions, IPOs, and corporate advisory. Whether you are a fresh graduate, finance enthusiast, or working professional looking to pivot into investment banking, this course equips you with the essential skills and industry insights.


Why Choose Investment Banking?



Investment banking is one of the most prestigious and rewarding career paths in finance. Professionals in this domain work on:

  • Raising Capital for corporations and governments

  • Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A) strategy and execution

  • Equity and Debt Market Advisory

  • Initial Public Offerings (IPOs)

  • Financial Modelling & Valuations

It’s a field known for its intellectual challenge, high-impact work, and significant earning potential.


Course Highlights at Quality Thought

✅ Industry-Relevant Curriculum
Covers core concepts like Financial Statement Analysis, DCF & Relative Valuation, Pitch Books, M&A Strategy, and Deal Structuring.

✅ Hands-On Learning
Work on real-life case studies, investment decks, and Excel-based financial models.

✅ Expert Mentors
Learn from seasoned professionals with experience at top investment banks and consulting firms.

✅ Job-Focused Training
Resume building, interview preparation, mock investment banking interviews, and placement support.

✅ Certifications
Get certified on course completion – a valuable addition to your professional profile.

💼 Top Reasons People Quit Investment Banking

1. Extremely Long Hours

  • 80–100 hours a week is normal, especially for analysts and associates.

  • Many leave due to burnout or lack of work-life balance.

“I was working till 2 AM almost every day. I had no time for family or health.”


2. High Stress, Low Autonomy (at Junior Levels)

  • Juniors do a lot of Excel modeling, PowerPoint decks, and last-minute changes.

  • The pressure to be “always available” wears people down.


3. Toxic Culture or Poor Mentorship

  • Some IB teams have a cutthroat culture, especially in large firms.

  • Micromanagement and unrealistic deadlines are common complaints.


4. They Got What They Wanted (and Moved On)

  • Many use IB as a stepping stone to:

    • Private Equity

    • Venture Capital

    • Hedge Funds

    • Startups

    • Top MBA programs

“I did 2 years in IB, then moved to PE with better hours and more strategic work.”


5. Lack of Purpose or Fulfillment

  • Some realize they want work that’s more creative, impactful, or meaningful.

“I was good at Excel and deals, but I didn’t care about the companies I was advising.”


6. Better Opportunities Elsewhere

  • Tech, consulting, startups, or even freelancing offer more:

    • Flexibility

    • Ownership

    • Growth

  • And often with comparable or better pay long-term.


🔁 Common Exit Paths After Quitting Investment Banking

Role/FieldWhy it's attractive
Private Equity / Venture CapitalBetter lifestyle, still deal-focused
Startups / TechOwnership, creativity
Corporate Finance (In-House)More stability, business exposure
ConsultingBroader problem-solving, less intense
MBA ProgramsCareer switch or senior roles

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