Is a Commission-Only IB Role Worth Staying In?
(Just to add some context since a lot of people are questioning whether this is actually IB, and I know commission-only IB isn’t typical. The firm mainly does private placements/capital raising for pre-revenue companies. It’s a very small boutique, and some of the bankers actually came from bulge brackets. The structure is just kind of unconventional since the bankers are set up as independent contractors.)
24F currently working at a boutique investment bank for the past 6 months. My previous experience includes equity research internships and a private equity internship. I also have CFA Level I, SIE, and Series 7, 63, and 65 licenses. Didn’t have a good GPA in school so that could be partially why I’m settling for bad roles.
The issue is that my current IB role is fully commission-based, (it’s not helping me build financial model skills or any technical skills) and I’m starting to feel uncertain about the long-term career path and stability. I’m not sure whether I should stay with them while looking for other opportunities. Originally planning on taking level II in August but have to push for November, plus current situation isn’t helping me with mental clarity to focus.
For people who have been in similar situations:
What roles or career paths would make the most sense with my background?
Is staying in a commission-only IB role worth it early in your career?
What skills or experience should I focus on building next?
I’d really appreciate any advice from people in finance who have navigated early-career uncertainty.