How To Become an Investment Banker in India

Being an Investment Banker right here in India, or anywhere else in the world for that matter, is a pretty lucrative job you can do in the finance sector. That’s what we’re pretty certain of. But to be honest, it is not really that easy to become one, especially right here in India. And we’ll certainly come to that because today’s post is actually all about how to become an investment banker in India. So, let’s say you’re a freshly graduated student evaluating your options down the line, or maybe you’re just looking it up for general purposes, this post sure is going to help you out. Alright, here we go then.

Before That Though, What Does an Investment Banker Actually Do?

Well, to make it very simple and in the easiest words possible, think of investment bankers like the architects of the money world. Just so you know, they help businesses plan big-money moves. Like, it could be raising cash by selling shares in the stock market. Or guiding companies when they want to join forces with another (mergers). Not just that though, it is a very known fact that they also make sure everyone is playing by the financial rulebook. Doesn’t sound so scary now, does it?

Skills Needed for Investment Banking

1. Analytical and Financial Skills: So, do you really love maths? Great. Why? Well, sure enough, you’ll be decoding financial data and tracking market trends. And yes, knowing your way around valuation tricks is non-negotiable.
2. Technical Skills: Excel isn’t just for sorting anything random. Sure enough, while working as an investment banker, you’ll use it for hardcore financial models. Then there’s Tableau, you know, picture graphs and charts that make boring data look like art. Yes, that too.
3. Communication and Networking: Can you explain complicated ideas in simple terms? That’s gold. That is something that’ll get you way too far in the finance sector if you really are a good communicator. Like, you’ll need to wow clients with crystal-clear pitches while making them trust you like their best mate, so that’s super important.
4. Problem-Solving Abilities: The job can be intense, without a single doubt. Like, deadlines are tighter, and that happens more often than you think. Quick thinking and problem-solving will save the day, and the deal as well, you know?

So, Got these skills? You’re halfway there. Now, time to hustle!

Educational Path to Investment Banking

Alright, want to step into the world of investment banking? Here’s how you can make it happen, Indian-style. No jargon. Just clear, actionable steps.

1. School Education Aka The Foundation: First of all, start with your 10+2. Like, pick subjects like Maths, Economics, and Accountancy. They’re your ticket to understanding money, and that’s super important stuff. Score well. If you make it to a top college, the one you like, then just do it, and you’ll be good for the most part.
2. Bachelor’s Degree, Time to Get Serious: Next up, after school, pick a course like B.Com, BBA, or Economics Honours. Through these, we can say one thing for sure, you’ll learn the ABCs of finance, money management, data analysis, and business basics.
3. Postgraduate Degree: Most investment bankers swear by an MBA in Finance. Why? Well, this is how you get really deep into the investment banking scene. Other cool options? A Master’s in Finance or even a specialized course in Economics.
4. Certifications, You Know, Add That Extra Spice: Alright, so, you probably know that there are certifications or degrees like CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) or CA (Chartered Accountant), right? In our opinion though, these are the most important ones you can achieve in order to become an investment banker right here in India. Though, what will they teach you? Sure, things like financial modeling, valuing companies, cracking stock market secrets, and all that.

How to Start Your Career

Let’s make it simple. How about starting with an internship? Well, that’ll certainly get you started in this investment banking scene right here in India, and sure enough, while working as an intern, you can also get some solid job offers. What you’d be doing though in this phase? Well, stuff like analyzing financial data, researching markets like a stock market detective, building financial models, and all that stuff.

Then there is another thing that is super important in the corporate world, especially in the finance sector, and yes, we’re talking about networking. What’s the goal though with this one? Well, just to meet people, a lot of them actually. Like, build connections, that’s all. You’ll realize it down the line how important networking really is in today’s world.

When you’re ready, start applying for entry-level jobs, that’s it. You see, roles like Junior Analyst or Associate are great to begin with. Your resume? Keep it sharp, that can pay really well down the line.