Big 4 modelling vs Buy-side equity research, what would you suggest to a fresher?
Hey everyone,
Freshly qualified chartered accountant here, recently joined a Big 4 in their Valuations (Modelling) team. A couple of weeks in, I got an offer for an Equity Research Analyst role at a mid-sized buy-side PMS. Now I am genuinely torn and could use some outside perspective.
A. Big 4:
Normal working hours, 2 days WFH, structured environment. The learning curve is solid. Overall a pretty sustainable lifestyle.
B. Buy-Side PMS:
12 to 13 hour days, alternate Saturdays working. Brutal on paper, but the learning curve is apparently very steep and the buy-side exposure is real and hands-on.
No difference in pay.
The context that probably matters most:
I am not gunning for a 20-year finance career. My plan is to join my family business in about 4 to 5 years. So this decision is really about what gets me the sharpest skills and the most useful market exposure in a relatively short window.
Given that framing, is the grind of the buy-side worth it, or does the Big 4 brand plus structured learning make more sense for someone with a defined exit in mind?
Would really appreciate perspectives from people who have been on either side of this.
Also, is it okay to leave a Big 4 in the 2nd week of your joining?
Thanks!