Model risk quant at a bank or quant researcher at a hedge fund?

[questioning_q]

Hi everyone,

In terms of career progression possibilities, work/life balance, stress, income, etc.. would you pick a position as a model risk quant at a large bank or a quant researcher role at a top hedge fund? I'm trying to decide between two opportunities right now. Thank you so much!

 

[IntoDarkness]

Troll detected

 

[questioning_q]

Troll detected

Wait no please I'm asking a genuine question, not trying to be a troll!

 

[Anthony Brockwell]

Generally, although base pay may be similar, bonuses are higher at hedge funds. Work/life balance and general stress levels depend a lot on the specific company as well as the group within the company. It's useful to talk to as many people as possible about the environment/culture of the group and the company before making a decision. Or just check out whatever commentary you can find online. Many people would view the hedge fund as the obvious choice, but it's not always so clear-cut.

 

[questioning_q]

Generally, although base pay may be similar, bonuses are higher at hedge funds. Work/life balance and general stress levels depend a lot on the specific company as well as the group within the company. It's useful to talk to as many people as possible about the environment/culture of the group and the company before making a decision. Or just check out whatever commentary you can find online. Many people would view the hedge fund as the obvious choice, but it's not always so clear-cut.

Thanks for that answer! Yes I'm aware that there will be a significant pay gap between the two roles, but honestly for me I'm not trying to optimize just on income (though that is, of course, a factor). I want to enjoy my job, work on interesting topics, and also not be crazy stressed out 24/7, which I see my friends who are HF quants are. I'm not sure if it's any better in a bank. I also am worried about not being able to progress from a quant position at a HF, but again I was wondering if it's any better in a bank anyway.