investment banker is a financial professional who helps companies, governments, and other entities raise capital, manage financial risks, and navigate complex financial transactions. Investment bankers primarily work in two main areas:
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Corporate Finance: This includes helping companies raise money by issuing stocks (equity) or bonds (debt), advising on mergers and acquisitions (M&A), and providing strategic financial advice to help companies achieve their financial goals.
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Sales and Trading: In this role, investment bankers may work with buying and selling securities, like stocks and bonds, on behalf of their clients. They may also engage in market-making activities or trade financial instruments for their own firm’s benefit.
In addition to these, investment bankers may also provide restructuring advice for companies facing financial difficulties or guide governments in managing debt or financing public projects.
Typically, investment bankers work for large financial institutions such as investment banks, commercial banks, or private equity firms. The work often involves long hours, significant pressure, and high compensation, especially when deals are successfully closed.