Here’s a brief list of what Investment Banking Analysts do:

• Financial Modeling: Create and maintain complex financial models to analyze financial data, forecast financial performance, and evaluate investment opportunities.

• Valuation Analysis: Conduct valuation analyses using methodologies such as discounted cash flow (DCF), comparable company analysis (CCA), and precedent transactions to assess potential mergers, acquisitions, or investments.

• Market Research: Perform industry and market research to identify trends, competitive landscapes, and potential investment opportunities for clients.

• Pitch Books and Presentations: Prepare pitch books, presentations, and investment memorandums to pitch ideas, transactions, or financial products to clients and stakeholders.

• Due Diligence: Assist in conducting due diligence processes, including gathering and analyzing financial and legal documents, to support transactions and investment decisions.

• Financial Analysis and Reporting: Analyze financial statements, performance metrics, and key financial ratios to assess company performance and financial health.

• Transaction Execution: Support senior bankers in executing transactions such as mergers and acquisitions (M&A), initial public offerings (IPOs), debt or equity financings, and restructuring deals.

Here’s how YOU can become one:

1. Education:

• Bachelor’s Degree: Obtain a bachelor’s degree in finance, economics, accounting, business administration, or a related field. These degrees provide a solid foundation in financial analysis, accounting principles, and economic theory.

2. Gain Relevant Skills:

• Financial Modeling: Learn how to build and analyze financial models, which are crucial for valuation and financial decision-making in investment banking.

• Excel Proficiency: Master Excel, including advanced functions and shortcuts commonly used in financial modeling.

• Understanding of Financial Markets: Stay updated on market trends, economic indicators, and industry-specific knowledge related to investment banking.

3. Internships and Experience:

• Secure internships or entry-level positions in finance, preferably in roles related to investment banking, corporate finance, or financial analysis. Internships provide practical experience and exposure to the industry.

4. Networking:

• Build a network within the finance industry, particularly in investment banking. Attend industry events, join finance-related clubs or organizations at your university, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn.

5. Certifications and Credentials (Optional but beneficial):

• Consider pursuing certifications such as the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation or the Financial Modeling and Valuation Analyst (FMVA) certification to enhance your credentials and demonstrate your commitment to the field.

6. MBA or Advanced Degree (Optional):

• While not always required, obtaining a Master's in Business Administration (MBA) or a Master’s in Finance can provide advanced knowledge and open doors to higher-level positions within investment banking.

  This is a very brief and general plan. To know your specific academic path for this career please talk to an advisor at the college or program you plan on attending!