78% of Post-Trade Banking Jobs to Evolve by 2030 – Key Skills & Opportunities

The future of investment banking is set for massive disruption. According to a recent report, 78% of roles in post-trade banking are projected to change by 2030, which is a significant shift. How ready will we be?

This evolution will not only relate to the arrival of new technologies but will also encompass what the skills, roles, and opportunities look like in a period of significant discontinuity. As we begin to see the end of a paradigm, it is helpful for people to know what skills will be required and what opportunities are likely to arise.

The objective of this blog is to provide a roadmap for professionals, both aspiring and experienced, to navigate the evolving investment banking landscape. By understanding these changes, we can prepare ourselves to move forward, and although there might be challenges ahead, there will also be opportunities to embrace in these potentially disruptive times.

The Future of Post-Trade Jobs

In fast-moving financial markets,  job evolution is a given that will happen. As investment banking continues to develop with cutting-edge technologies, it is predicted that by 2030, 78% of post-trade banking jobs will change.

The expected changes will occur in the following:

  1. Artificial Intelligence: As AI becomes more front and centre, post-trade professionals may become more involved in managing, understanding, and analysing data generated by AI.
  2. Regulation: There will be more emphasis on understanding and working with the global finance regulatory framework, requiring advanced knowledge.
  3. Risk: As the market becomes increasingly complex and the effects of the global risk environment become more pronounced, skills associated with risk management will become even more crucial going forward.

Expect many new opportunities within investment banking for those willing to invest in the future of post-trade roles and continue to develop their skills in new areas.

In summary, the post-trade job evolution is laid out below as it will progress to 2030:

Current Role Evolution by 2030
Data analysis AI Management
Transaction processing Regulatory Compliance
Risk assessment Advanced Risk Management

These changes are a reflection of the challenges being faced in the finance industry and the need for ongoing learning and skill enhancement. The future of investment banking is a promising time for those finding themselves working in post-trade jobs, with new roles, new technologies, and new opportunities ahead.

New Skill Sets for the Future of Investment Banking

The financial world is changing rapidly, and the future of investment banking will not be different. With 2030 approaching, it is essential to identify the changing skill sets. Listed below are several key investment banking skill trends that may shape the industry:

  1. Digital Literacy: If investment banking continues to provide services through new digital platforms accurately, digital literacy may become imperative for all investment bankers. Familiarity with financial technology solutions, blockchain technology, and data analytics is likely to be a standard requirement across all levels of employment.
  2. Sustainability Knowledge: The conversation of sustainability is growing on a global scale. Investment bankers will need to understand sustainable finance and the importance of ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) factors on an investment strategy: What is it? And how does it impact investment strategy?
  3. Regulatory Compliance: As laws and regulations continue to evolve, it is crucial to stay informed about the latest compliance requirements to effectively implement legal investment practices and maintain trust with clients and stakeholders.
  4. Soft Skills: In the context of investment banking, it is unrealistic to expect soft skills to be less important than technical skills; the practice of soft skills is a driver of building relationships and growing a book of business.
  5. Adaptability: The banking sector is fast-paced even for seasoned professionals. Therefore, the ability to adapt to new situations quickly and utilise new information positively may be an adaptive skill in the future, through the contemplative nature of investment banking.

These skills, paired with a solid understanding of investment banking, will help professionals navigate the evolving landscape of the industry. As investment banking continues its evolution, skills identified will evolve.

The Evolution of Investment Banking: A Look to the Future

Today, banking operations are undergoing a transformation that is unprecedented due to technology advancements and evolving customer needs. This evolution provides both challenges and opportunities in investment banking.

The three main drivers of this evolution are:

  1. Technology: Automation and AI are enhancing processes, improving risk management, and increasing efficiencies.
  2. Regulation: The future of investment banking will be fluid, based on regulatory changes and operational responses.
  3. Customer demands: Customers want digital banking with personalised service and seamless user interfaces.

According to industry estimates, approximately 78% of post-trade banking jobs will evolve by 2030, marking a significant paradigm shift in the future of banking operations. The entire shift will continue to create a new set of roles and skill sets:

  • Data Analysts: As data becomes more important to everyone, data analysts will be required in investment banking.
  • Risk Managers: Risk management will be elevated due to regulatory changes and increasingly complicated financial products.
  • Tech Specialists: Investment banks will require specialists with knowledge of AI, machine learning, and blockchain.

Overall, it is anticipated that this transformational period will have implications for the future of investment banking. Changes and technology can be uncomfortable, but investment banks have a responsibility to prepare for a more profitable and sustainable future. Preemptively considering the changes is essential to remain competitive in investment banking.

Recruitment in Investment Banking is Changing

The future of investment banking will be changing drastically in the next decade due to a variety of factors, including technology, regulatory requirements and client expectations, which are all influencing investment bank hiring trends, including:

  • Increased interest in data scientists and technologists: The rise in FinTech, coupled with growing AI adoption, is creating a hiring marketplace that favours technologists over finance candidates.
  • Increased demand for regulatory-focused positions: As banking regulations emerge on a global scale, and become more complicated, there are now regulatory specialists focused on institutions’ own unique rules that need to be hired to navigate the intricacies of those regulations.
  • The emergence of soft skills: including problem-solving, adaptability, and communication, is taking precedence over “hard” skills as technology evolves, replacing various aspects of a financial professional’s work.

In response to these shifts, investment banking institutions are changing their hiring strategies: they are hiring from layman backgrounds, specifically STEM, in addition to advancing their training programs for current employees seeking to update their skill sets to improve their future practice.

To be competitive in the future of investment banking, candidates must make an effort to upgrade their skills and effectively navigate a changing environment. Changes in recruitment trends do reflect a shift in not only job opportunities in the investment banking industry, but also ultimately, pathways for career development. These changes signify exciting new opportunities for candidates willing to embrace them.

To summarise, investment banking of the future will reflect the melding of finance, technology, and regulation, mixed with some soft skills!

Advantages of a Career in Banking

A career in banking can offer many benefits, both financially and in personal and professional development.

The first characteristic value: Stability and job security.
The future of investment banking may change, but the industry provides a good prospect for a lifelong career. Predictions suggest that by 2030, 78% of post-trade banking jobs will have changed drastically, which can mean new opportunities or skill set requirements.

Key Advantages:

  1. Career Advancement– Banking careers have a clear career path with structures for advancement and promotion.
  2. Upskilling– it will demand a new skill set in the future of investment banking. The learning will be enjoyable and reward your long-term professional value.
  3. Diversity– Banks operate in a global world, providing exposure to diverse cultures, people, and business practices.
  4. Competitive Salaries– Banking jobs generally attract good salary packages and additional benefits.

Banking careers are more than doing money transactions. Many skills will be developed and learnt in a career in banking, including problem-solving, communication, leadership, and many others. These skills will all be needed in the future of investment banking.

The future of investment banking will be more digital, more inclusive, and more customer-focused. The change will create exciting opportunities for those who can learn and adapt, and enjoy being part of a continually changing environment. If you are considering a career in banking, you have a lot to look forward to. Imarticus Learning offers you the opportunity to build your career in finance with the best investment banking course. This investment banking course has been thoughtfully constructed to provide you with knowledge, practical skills, and the future of investment banking.

In this course, you will explore investment banking operations, learn about trends in the investment banking sector, and understand the future of investment banking. Furthermore, it touches upon the topics discussed in this blog, which will strengthen your understanding of investment banking and enable you to apply that knowledge in real life. Choosing this course will assure that you are investing in a better future and that you’ll have the skill set necessary to function and thrive in the investment banking environment.

FAQs

What do we mean by the future of investment banking in terms of post-trade banking jobs?

The future of investment banking is changing quickly. We will distribute research in different modes over time. To what extent are jobs in post-trade banking to change by 2030; it is estimated that 78% are likely to change significantly. Post-trade banking encompasses all processes that occur after a trade is completed, including clearing, settlement, and reporting. Post-trade banking jobs will be transformed drastically in the coming years through technological advancements, such as artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain technology, and automation. This will open up new opportunities and calls for new skills in the industry.

What key skills will be needed in the future of investment banking?

As the future of investment banking changes, so will the key skills needed to work in these roles. Professionals will be required to have great flair in the ability to utilise technological advances, data analytics, and clearly understand regulatory requirements and risk management. Besides, soft skills such as adaptability, problem solving and clear communication will be vital as the financial landscape continues to change and young professionals find their place in this transition.

What will be the opportunities for the future of investment banking by 2030?

The transformation of post-trade banking jobs will present many opportunities by 2030. As these roles will be driven by technology into the future, the sector will need more technologists, data analysts and emerging technology specialists supporting and working in investment banking. As a consequence of this transformation, talented professionals will be offered opportunities to upskill and adapt to a new job or existing role.

How can someone prepare for the future of investment banking?

Professionals should prepare for the future of investment banking by ensuring that they develop both technical and soft skills in equal measures. Understanding the most recent technologies, such as blockchain and AI, and having experience in using them will be important. Equally as important, no skill will matter without good, effective communication, problem-solving, and general adaptability, which will again be worthwhile. Keeping up with trends and staying vigilant about change will help prepare for the industry’s future shifts.

How will the evolution of jobs in post-trade banking impact the overall industry of investment banking?

The evolution of jobs in post-trade banking will likely have a major effect on the overall industry of investment banking as has been the case throughout the evolution of the sector. As jobs in post-trade banking become more technology-related, investment banks will adapt to change and adjust their strategies and processes to leverage and utilise the technology. This could lead to a more efficient, streamlined industry, promoting the pride and risk associated with data analysis and better use of technology in a fast-paced environment. Additionally, we will create a highly competitive market for young, inexperienced jobs.

How Business Management Skills Elevate Your Investment Banking Career

A few decades ago…investment banking operated in an ecosystem that was almost untouched by technology. Fast-forward to 2025, & the landscape is unrecognisable. AI-led decision making, digital platforms, and fintech partnerships are not just additions — they’re defining forces. The future of investment banking is unfolding in real time, & it’s anything but static.

If you’re considering a career in finance-or already navigating the industry, now is the time to understand where it’s heading. This article dives into the major shifts, innovations, & ideas shaping the next decade of investment banking — with a strong focus on what it means for professionals, institutions, & the broader economy.

Investment Banking in Transition

Traditionally known for facilitating large-scale mergers and acquisitions, managing IPOs & offering high-stakes advisory services… investment banks have relied heavily on deep industry knowledge & trusted relationships. However, as global markets evolve and customer expectations change, the sector is undergoing a transformation.

The shift isn’t just operational. It’s strategic. It’s cultural. And most importantly, it’s digital.

Artificial Intelligence and Data-Driven Decisions

One of the most striking developments shaping the- future of investment banking is the widespread use of Artificial Intelligence. From predictive analytics to natural language processing, AI in investment banking is revolutionising how firms manage risk, forecast trends & understand client needs.

AI is being used in areas like-

  • Automated risk analysis  & compliance
  • Client sentiment analysis through social & financial media
  • Intelligent deal sourcing & market mapping

With AI doing the heavy lifting in data-intensive processes, human advisors can now focus on complex negotiations & strategic thinking.


Digital Transformation in Banking is Driving Operational Efficiency

The digital transformation in banking is far from a back-office upgrade. It’s fundamentally altering how services are delivered. Investment banks are now leveraging cloud computing, real-time data analytics, & APIs to become more agile, cost-effective, & scalable.

Processes such as client onboarding, regulatory reporting, & trade execution have seen significant automation. Furthermore, digital dashboards offer real-time visibility into key metrics & deal pipelines, enabling better and faster decisions.

Digital transformation is also enhancing transparency… a trait increasingly valued by both institutional and retail investors.


The Fintech Impact on Investment Banking

There was a time when fintech-was seen as a threat to traditional banks. Today, the fintech impact on investment banking is more about collaboration than competition. Banks are actively partnering with fintech firms to… unlock new services and efficiencies.

Key areas where fintech is making a difference include:

  • Blockchain for real-time settlement
  • Robo-advisory platforms for portfolio management
  • Tokenised securities and alternative investment platforms

Institutions that embrace these collaborations are leading the charge in reimagining how financial products are created, distributed & consumed.


Emerging Financial Technologies and New Products

The adoption of emerging financial technologies- is not just about making old processes more efficient — it’s also about creating entirely new offerings. The introduction of smart contracts, decentralised finance (DeFi), & digital asset platforms is expanding the boundaries of investment banking.

Some examples include:

  • Smart contracts automating elements of M&A agreements
  • Decentralised platforms allowing peer-to-peer investment syndication
  • New products in digital real estate & art-backed assets

As these technologies mature… they will likely become mainstream offerings, giving investment banks more tools to stay competitive in a shifting landscape.


Shifts in Global Banking Market Insights

Looking at the global banking market insights, a few macro trends stand out. Investment banking revenue is- projected to reach over $150 billion by 2025, driven by strong demand for capital advisory services, especially in emerging markets.

Key statistics:

Metric20202025 (Projected)
Global IB Revenue$115B$150B+
AI Adoption in Financial Firms25%60%
Share of Digital-first Investment Services30%70%
ESG Assets Under Management$35T$50T

Emerging markets, particularly in Asia and Africa, are seeing a rise in deal activity and infrastructure-led investments. These insights point to a geographically expanding field, with more diverse client needs and cultural expectations.

To get a better understanding of the landscape and career opportunities, explore our detailed post on the Scope of Investment Banking.


Sustainable Finance and the ESG Boom

Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) factors-have evolved from peripheral concerns to central pillars in investment decisions. Banks are under pressure — from both clients and regulators — to show how their strategies align with sustainability goals.

This shift aligns… directly with the broader future of finance industry, which is focused not just on profit, but on long-term impact. ESG data is now routinely used in deal assessments, & ESG-linked bonds & loans are becoming more prevalent.

Sustainable finance- is fast becoming a core competency for banks aiming to stay relevant in the next decade.


7. Key Investment Banking Trends to Watch

While macro shifts are reshaping the sector, there are also tactical investment banking trends that professionals should monitor closely:

  • Data democratisation: Teams now have real-time access to structured and unstructured data to inform decision-making
  • Rise of boutique advisory firms: Niche players are winning market share with specialised offerings
  • Remote-first deal making: Cross-border M&A and fundraising are increasingly happening virtually
  • Hyper-personalisation: Client experiences are becoming tailored…from reporting dashboards to customised investment vehicles

These trends represent both challenges & opportunities, depending on how firms and professionals choose to adapt.


The Changing Role of Professionals

With AI and digital tools handling many traditional responsibilities, the nature of talent investment banks seek is also evolving. New hires are expected to be digitally fluent, analytically sharp, and globally aware.

Top skills in demand:

Institutes like Imarticus Learning are preparing professionals for this future. If you’re ready to explore this path, consider the Certified Investment Banking Operations Program, designed to give you practical, real-world knowledge & a pathway into the industry.

To understand how banks are built structurally and operationally, read our article on the Investment Banking Business Model.


Redefining Client Expectations

Today’s clients — both corporate and individual — are digitally native and more financially informed than ever. They expect transparency, speed, and customisation. This change is forcing banks to rethink client journeys, often using AI-driven insights to craft better experiences.

The outcome? A more inclusive and responsive banking environment, where solutions are not one-size-fits-all, but instead reflect the specific goals and values of each client.


Looking Ahead: The Big Picture

The future of investment banking will be shaped by a combination of technological innovation, client empowerment, & regulatory evolution. The institutions that thrive will be those that embrace digital tools, stay agile, & invest in the right talent.

The industry is moving from exclusivity to accessibility, from tradition to transformation, and from process-oriented thinking to product and customer centricity.

And if you’re wondering about career potential in this dynamic field, especially when compared to other finance roles, have a look at Chartered Accountant vs Investment Banker Salary.

For a visual overview of the life & challenges faced by professionals in this space, this video overview of investment banking offers an excellent starting point.


FAQs

1. What does the future of investment banking look like?

The future of investment banking is set to be shaped by digital disruption, automation, & greater regulatory focus. Banks will prioritise technology, sustainability, & client customisation.

2. How is AI changing investment banking?

AI in investment banking is improving decision-making through predictive analytics… automating routine tasks, and enhancing client servicing with smarter tools and insights.

3. What’s the fintech impact on investment banking?

Fintech is streamlining operations, enabling faster transactions, offering alternative funding platforms, & creating new revenue models within investment banking.

4. Is investment banking still a rewarding career?
Yes. Despite automation, demand for strategic thinkers with strong analytical & tech skills continues to grow, making it a lucrative and future-proof career.

5. How does digital transformation in banking influence IB?
It enhances efficiency, reduces costs, and enables real-time data use, which transforms client interactions, deal execution, & compliance management.

6. What are the major investment banking trends to watch?
Expect growth in ESG investing, AI integration, cross-border deal-making, & partnerships with fintech firms to redefine service delivery.

7. How can I build a career in investment banking today?
Start with a practical certification like the Certified Investment Banking Operations Program  by Imarticus, which offers hands-on training, industry exposure &placement support.

Conclusion

The future of investment banking is already here — intelligent, digital, sustainable, & global. Whether it’s the fintech impact on investment banking… the rise of AI in investment banking, or the ongoing digital transformation in banking, the changes are deep and irreversible.

To stay relevant and ahead, banks must continue to evolve… & so must professionals. Upskilling, adopting technology, & staying informed about emerging financial technologies and global banking market insights are no longer optional.
Start your journey today by exploring the Certified Investment Banking Operations Program — and position yourself at the forefront of this exciting transformation.

The Future of Investment Banking

Investment banking helps firms, governments, and investors with large financial transactions. It is a career that requires a top-tier finance degree and excellent analytical and mathematical skills.

What is an investment banker’s role?

An investment banker is a highly qualified professional who provides various financial services to businesses, governments, and investors. 

A banker’s role can vary from settlements and confirmations to compliance and risk management. 

What do investment bankers do?

 

Investment Banker

Investment bankers help businesses with loans, stock and bond issuance, stock pricing, resource allocation, mergers and acquisitions, and investment management. They serve as a link between investors and private and public businesses. They offer financial counsel and recommendations on what assets to issue, such as stocks and bonds, and when and how to do so.

In conjunction with numerous financial transactions and investment endeavours, an investment banker is in charge of various financial operations. 

What qualifications do I need to work as an investment banker?

A bachelor’s degree is preferred for an entry-level position with leading investment banks. You can boost your career by earning a master’s or PhD. However, working on your communication and interpersonal abilities is also imperative.

One of the most frequently asked questions at this time is, “What does a typical Investment Banking career look like?”

Investing bankers have a well-defined road to success. They are frequently organized into groups of managing directors, directors, vice presidents, associates, and analysts, each of whom is in charge of a specific industry or market sector.

The typical career path is as follows: 

Investment banking jobs offer more than just the salary. Bonuses and incentives are also offered based on performance. 

The starting salary of finance professionals in India could range from 2.5L to 4L per year.  

Designation Base Salary Bonus Total Remuneration
Analyst $85k-$100k $50k-$100k $125k-$200k
Associate

$100k-$120k

$80k-$130k

$180k-$250k

Vice President

$120k-$150k

$100k-$250k

$220k-$400k

Managing Director $300k-$1M $200k-$10M+

$500K-$10M+

  • Analyst: Analysts are freshers or employees with less than two years of experience. Everyday duties include data collecting, presentation design, and fundamental financial data analysis. Any aspiring investment banker should have this experience because it is at this time that the majority of financial concepts are developed.
  • Associate: An analyst is promoted to associate status after 2-4 years of work experience, with extra responsibilities such as customer interaction and managing a team of 3-5 analysts.
  • Vice President: Typically, a Vice President is an investment banker with extensive project management expertise. He is accountable for maintaining client relationships and ensuring operational efficiency at all levels of the organization.
  • Managing Director: Managing Director or Director is a senior investment banking post requiring at least 15-20 years of experience. An MD is usually in charge of boosting income and turning potential customers into paying customers.

We can conclude from the above discussion that “investment banker” is a broad term that encompasses a large number of roles that range from an entry-level financial advisor to a vice president.

Learners who complete the Certified Investment Banking Operations Professional course will have a head start in their careers as Investment Bankers. 

Want to make your career opportunities limitless? Imarticus Learning’s unique leading environment and creative curriculum will set you apart from other candidates. We are passionate about providing students with the best learning experience. Visit Imarticus Learning and discover the difference today.