Thoughts on GS Quant vs. Barclays Quant (FT)
Hi everyone! I’m looking for your opinions on working at Goldman Sachs (quantitative role in a front office non-trading team) versus Barclays (quantitative role in the e-trading team).
From what I know (which is quite limited), Goldman Sachs holds a strong reputation but tends to have a more demanding work-life balance, especially in the division I’m considering. On the other hand, Barclays is a notable player in trading and appears to offer better hours. That’s about the extent of my knowledge at this point.
I’d love to hear your insights on how career progression looks at GS and Barclays, and how well each environment equips you for buy-side quant trading or research roles. I have a feeling that working in Barclays trading might be more beneficial than being at GS in a non-trading capacity. Any input would be greatly appreciated! Thank you!
One response
When comparing the quant roles at Goldman Sachs and Barclays, you’re right to consider factors such as prestige, work-life balance (WLB), and career progression, especially in the context of preparing for buyside quant roles. Here are some insights to help you weigh your options:
Prestige and Brand: Goldman Sachs is often seen as a top-tier institution, particularly in investment banking and quant roles. This can be beneficial for your resume, but the prestige comes with high expectations and demanding work hours. Barclays, while also well-regarded, particularly within trading, may not carry the same level of brand recognition, particularly in non-trading quant areas.
Work-Life Balance: As you noted, Goldman Sachs is known for its rigorous culture, which can translate to longer hours and increased pressure, especially in certain divisions. In contrast, Barclays tends to offer a more balanced work environment, particularly in e-trading, which may allow for a better work-life balance. This could be an essential factor, depending on your personal preferences and lifestyle.
Career Progression: Progression paths can vary widely within both firms, but generally, Goldman Sachs provides a robust career framework with opportunities for mentorship, networking, and moving up in a highly competitive environment. However, this depends on performance and team dynamics. Barclays also has a structured progression but may offer more flexibility and faster advancement in certain areas, especially in trading roles.
Skills and Experience Relevant to Buyside Roles: If your goal is to transition to buyside quant trading/research, both experiences can be valuable. Working in e-trading at Barclays might provide more exposure to trading strategies, market dynamics, and a hands-on understanding of quant models applied in fast-paced environments. Goldman Sachs’ non-trading quant role may offer strong analytical skills and exposure to risk management and model development, which are also crucial for buyside roles.
Networking Opportunities: Consider the networking opportunities at each institution. If you can build relationships with traders and portfolio managers at Barclays, that could be beneficial for a transition to the buyside. Goldman Sachs also offers significant networking potential but within a more formalized structure.
In summary, both paths have their advantages. If you value prestige and are ready for a more demanding environment, Goldman Sachs could be the way to go. If you prefer a better work-life balance and direct exposure to trading, Barclays might suit you better. Ultimately, think about where you see yourself in the future and which role aligns more closely with your career goals and lifestyle preferences. Good luck!