Can Chartered Accountants become Investment Bankers? How?

Last updated on March 25th, 2024 at 12:45 pm

Investment banking is a challenging and exciting career opportunity that many can pursue. Grit, determination and a smart attitude are what it takes to become an investment banker.
Many chartered accountants look at pivoting their career to investment banking due to the myriad of opportunities available in the field. While chartered accountancy is challenging, investment banking opens a new world of functions and risk aspects that one can learn and grow in. Individuals who are dynamic, hardworking and dedicated have a chance to pursue an investment banking course and move into the field naturally.
A career in investment banking is highly risky, exciting and dynamic and they are always on the lookout for individuals who are ambitious and charismatic. There are many different types of functions that one performs in investment banking predominantly revolving around raising funds, auditing, client relationship, and mergers. The biggest function though is to raise equity for your clients and project a growth trajectory.
Hence investment bankers need to make decisions keeping in mind the future of the client and do so in a qualitative fashion. The job also has long hours and involves strategic thinking at every step of the way.

Here are the top ways that one can switch into investment banking from accounting.
Understand the Functions
As mentioned earlier in the article, investment banking requires a lot of strategic thinking and making smart choices for your clients. This can be high risk as the company’s future depends on raising funds and taking off. Before looking at switching from chartered accounting, one must evaluate and scope out the work portfolio of investment banking. Individuals who have completed an investment banking training will have a basic understanding of what does it take to raise capital for a company and this is an area of expertise that one must master.
Country Specific Rules
Before shifting to investment banking, one must understand the specific set of rules and regulations defined in each country for the field of banking. For instance, in India, it is a natural progression for many accountants to switch from chartered accounting to banking and then financial advisors. Some countries may also require an exam to be given in order to pursue investment banking as a career. Understanding this is the key to moving successfully into the investment banking space.
Ability to work with clients
One of the top things that banking and accounting have in common is the option to learn how to build relationships. In investment banking, long term relationships and the ability to upsell and understand your client goes a long way. If you have good communication skills, are proficient in math and are hard working you already have the foundation for a career in investment banking.
Conclusion
A lucrative career path, investment banking may demand long working hours, quick thinking in a stressful situation and more. However, the results can be deeply rewarding to individuals who pursue the same.