Ace Your HireVue: Top Investment

Bank & Asset Management Interview

Questions Uncovered

Contents

l
ai
1 JP Morgan 2
1.1 Markets Sales & Trading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
1.2
1.3 m
Investment Banking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Asset Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3
4
re
2 Bank of America 4
u

2.1 Markets Sales & Trading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

yo

3 Morgan Stanley 5
3.1 Markets Sales & Trading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
!
ts
p

4 Blackstone 7
ro

4.1 RE/AM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
en

4.2 Additional Questions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

D

5 UBS 9
5.1 Sales & Trading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
m

5.2 Investment Banking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

5.3 Other divisions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
co

6 BlackRock 13
6.1 Quantitative Research . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
e

6.2 Portfolio Management and Investment Research . . . . . . . . . 14

th

7 Lazard Equity Research 15

8 Evercore FIG 16
in

1
1 JP Morgan
1.1 Markets Sales & Trading

Discuss a recent headline in the financial markets that caught your

attention and why?
A recent headline that caught my attention is the one highlighting the bal-
ancing act required for the U.S. economy to avoid recession while also allow-
ing interest rates to come down. The employment reports are crucial as they
will set the tone for the Federal Reserve’s upcoming meeting and influence
the market’s expectation of a ”soft landing.” The mixed signals from la-
bor market data, including rising layoffs and slowing job growth, contrasted
with the potential for a significant rate cut, create a complex scenario for

l
ai
investors. This dynamic illustrates the ongoing challenge of navigating eco-
nomic uncertainty and balancing growth with inflationary pressures.

m
re
Tell us why you are interested in the financial services industry
and specifically, J.P. Morgan.
u

I am drawn to the financial services industry due to its dynamic nature

and the opportunity it offers to make impactful decisions based on market
yo

insights. J.P. Morgan stands out because of its global reach, innovative
approach, and commitment to excellence. The firm’s strong reputation and
!
ts
its role in shaping financial markets provide an ideal environment for growth
p

and professional development.

ro

en
D

How has your degree and university experience best prepared you
for a role in Markets? What elements of your degree are you most
m

passionate about and why?

My degree in Finance has provided a solid foundation in financial theory,
co

quantitative analysis, and market principles. Courses such as Advanced Fi-

nancial Modeling and Investment Analysis have equipped me with the skills
to interpret complex data and make informed decisions. Additionally, par-
e

ticipating in the university’s finance club and investment competitions has

th

given me practical experience in market analysis and teamwork. I am par-

ticularly passionate about financial modeling because it combines statistical
in

2
 i l
techniques, allowing me to forecast market trends and evaluate investment

a
opportunities.

m
1.2 Investment Banking

If you had the choice to lend money to one company, which would

e
it be and why?
I would go with Estee Lauder. With brands that include its namesake,
Clinique, and Aveda, Estee Lauder is a leading provider of premium beauty

r
products that has a strong presence across both brick-and-mortar and digital
channels. We expect the company to benefit from a consumer shift in both
o u
developed and emerging markets toward higher-end beauty brands, explains
Morningstar analyst Dan Su. However, we see risks on the horizon. Estee
Lauder’s premium products are exposed to macro cyclicality as consumers
tend to trade down or delay their higher-ticket discretionary spending amid
y
recession concerns. In addition, the company may need some time to refresh
its lackluster cosmetics portfolio. Estee Lauder stock is trading 49% below

!
our fair value estimate of $176 per share.

ts
p

What interests you about JP Morgan and the Corporate & In-
ro

en
vestment Banking division?
I am particularly drawn to JP Morgan’s reputation as a global leader in
Corporate & Investment Banking. The firm’s ability to consistently innovate
and adapt in a highly competitive industry, while maintaining a strong
D

m
commitment to client service, is impressive. I am also attracted to the
division’s role in facilitating major financial transactions that shape the
global economy, such as mergers and acquisitions, capital raising, and risk
management solutions. The opportunity to work on high-impact projects
m

and collaborate with industry experts makes JP Morgan’s Corporate &

Investment Banking division an ideal place to launch and grow my career.
co

Tell us about a time you worked as part of a team to achieve an

important goal.
In my university, I was part of a group project where we had to develop a
detailed investment strategy. Each team member was assigned specific sec-
tors to analyze. I took the lead in coordinating the research and compiling
e

the final report. Through collaboration and constant communication, we

th

3
 i l
were able to present a well-researched strategy that earned us the highest

a
grade in the class. The experience taught me the importance of teamwork
and delegation in achieving success.

m
1.3 Asset Management

e
Why this division at JPM?
The Asset Management division at J.P. Morgan aligns with my interest in
evaluating investment opportunities and managing client portfolios. This

r
division offers the chance to apply analytical skills and market insights to
create value for clients. Additionally, J.P. Morgan’s innovative investment

u
strategies and diverse asset classes make it an exciting and dynamic envi-
ronment to contribute to and grow professionally.
o
y
Which factors have recently influenced markets and our clients?

!
Recent factors influencing markets include geopolitical tensions, shifts in

ts
monetary policy, and technological advancements. For clients, changes in
p

interest rates and inflation expectations impact investment decisions and

portfolio adjustments. Understanding these factors helps in developing
strategies that align with clients’ goals and risk tolerance.
ro

en
Tell us about a time you worked as part of a team to achieve an
D

important goal.
m
In my university, I was part of a group project where we had to develop a
detailed investment strategy. Each team member was assigned specific sec-
tors to analyze. I took the lead in coordinating the research and compiling
m

the final report. Through collaboration and constant communication, we

were able to present a well-researched strategy that earned us the highest
grade in the class. The experience taught me the importance of teamwork
and delegation in achieving success.
co

2 Bank of America
2.1 Markets Sales & Trading
e
th

4
 i l
a
Could you share a bit about yourself and explain what draws you
to this program or business?

m
I am a recent graduate with a degree in Finance and a keen interest in finan-
cial markets and investment strategies. My academic background, combined
with internship experiences, has prepared me for a role in this program. I
am drawn to Bank of America due to its global presence and commitment

e
to innovation, and I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to and
learn from the firm’s diverse and dynamic environment.

r
Describe a time when you had to convince others to agree with
o u
your perspective or follow your recommendation.
In a university group project, I advocated for a particular investment strat-
egy based on my analysis. I presented data, explained the rationale, and
addressed concerns from team members. By effectively communicating the
y
benefits and providing evidence, I convinced the group to adopt my rec-
ommendation. This experience highlighted my ability to persuade through

!
clear communication and evidence-based arguments.

ts
p

Can you describe a time when you proactively developed a skill

ro

en
or explored a subject outside of your academic requirements?
I developed proficiency in Python for financial analysis, which was not part
of my curriculum. I chose this skill because of its importance in quantitative
finance and used online courses and projects to practice. This has greatly
D

m
enhanced my ability to handle large datasets and automate analysis.

Can you discuss a significant current event and its potential im-
m

pact on the markets and the role you’re applying for?

The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has significantly impacted global energy
markets, leading to volatility in oil and gas prices. This instability could
co

affect the role I’ve applied for by increasing the need for dynamic risk man-
agement strategies to mitigate market exposure.

3 Morgan Stanley
e

3.1 Markets Sales & Trading

th

5
 i l
a
Why Sales and Trading at Morgan Stanley?
Morgan Stanley’s Sales and Trading division is renowned for its innovative

m
approach and its significant role in the global markets. The firm provides
access to cutting-edge technology and analytics, which are crucial for un-
derstanding market dynamics and making informed decisions. Additionally,
Morgan Stanley’s culture of collaboration and mentorship aligns with my

e
professional goals of continuous learning and growth. Being part of such a
prestigious firm would provide the opportunity to contribute to high-impact
projects and work alongside some of the best minds in the industry.

ur
How are you resilient during stressful times?
I maintain resilience during stressful situations by staying focused on the
o
task at hand, prioritizing my responsibilities, and breaking down complex
problems into manageable parts. I also rely on my ability to adapt quickly
y
and seek support from team members when needed. Mindfulness and regular
exercise help me stay balanced and maintain a clear mind, even during high-

!
pressure moments. These habits have allowed me to thrive in fast-paced

ts
environments and remain effective under pressure.
p
ro

en
Which market sector interests you?
I am particularly interested in the technology sector, especially the rapid
growth of fintech and artificial intelligence in finance. The sector’s potential
to disrupt traditional financial services is fascinating, and I am eager to
D

m
explore how these innovations impact global markets. Monitoring the evo-
lution of companies in this space and understanding their strategic moves
has given me valuable insights into how technology is reshaping industries.
This sector’s blend of innovation and financial impact makes it particularly
m

appealing to me.
co

Describe a time when you had to resolve a conflict within a team.

What was your approach?
In a group project, a disagreement arose over the direction of our research.
I facilitated a discussion where each member could voice their concerns
and suggestions. By encouraging open communication and finding common
ground, we reached a consensus that incorporated diverse viewpoints. This
e

approach not only resolved the conflict but also enhanced team collabora-
th

6
 i l
tion.

a
m
Can you provide an example of how you demonstrated teamwork
in a challenging situation?
During a tight deadline for a project, our team had to adapt quickly to

e
new requirements. I took the initiative to organize additional meetings,
distribute tasks according to each member’s strengths, and provide sup-
port where needed. This collaborative effort ensured we met the deadline
successfully while maintaining high-quality work.

ur
4 Blackstone
4.1 RE/AM
yo
What strengths can you add to Blackstone?

!
I bring strong analytical skills, a deep understanding of financial markets,

ts
and a collaborative approach to problem-solving. My experience in finan-
p

cial analysis and portfolio management equips me to contribute effectively

to Blackstone’s investment strategies. Additionally, my ability to leverage
data-driven insights and work collaboratively with diverse teams will add
ro

en
value to the firm’s objectives and initiatives.
D

Describe a time you actively increased diversity and inclusion and

m
how it helped.
In a previous role, I led an initiative to improve diversity and inclusion
by organizing workshops and discussions on unconscious bias. This effort
m

fostered a more inclusive work environment, increased team collaboration,

and enhanced overall productivity. By promoting diversity, we were able to
bring in different perspectives and ideas, which enriched our decision-making
processes and project outcomes.
co

Discuss a deal/initiative/strategy you have been involved in.

I was involved in a strategic acquisition project where I conducted due dili-
gence and financial analysis to assess the value and risks of the target com-
e

pany. My analysis played a crucial role in the decision-making process, and

th

7
 i l
the acquisition successfully expanded our market presence and created new

a
growth opportunities. This experience demonstrated my ability to handle
complex deals and contribute to strategic planning.

m
Describe a time you faced a challenge and had to change your

e
initial plans. How did you deal with it?
During a critical project, we encountered unexpected regulatory changes
that affected our initial strategy. I quickly assessed the new requirements,
adjusted our plans, and coordinated with the team to implement the changes.

r
Despite the setback, we successfully adapted our strategy and met our

4.2 Additional Questions

o u
project goals. This experience highlighted my adaptability and problem-
solving skills under pressure.
y
Talk about one current event that interests you, and discuss its

!
potential implications.

ts
The recent advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and its integration
p

into various industries are highly intriguing. AI has the potential to revolu-
tionize sectors such as finance, healthcare, and manufacturing by improving
ro

en
efficiency and innovation. This trend could lead to new investment op-
portunities and require companies to adapt their strategies to leverage AI
effectively.
D

m
Discuss how you would handle a task given to you by your team
if you are already struggling to get other tasks done.
If faced with multiple competing tasks, I would prioritize based on urgency
m

and impact, communicate with my team to manage expectations, and seek

assistance or delegate tasks where possible. Effective time management and
clear communication are key to balancing workload and ensuring all tasks
co

are completed efficiently.

What is one experience that you believe has changed you for the
better?
An experience that significantly changed me was leading a cross-functional
e

project team. It taught me valuable lessons in leadership, team dynamics,

th

8
 i l
and conflict resolution. The experience enhanced my ability to collaborate

a
effectively and make strategic decisions, contributing to my personal and
professional growth.

m
Tell me one time you used data to come to a decision.

e
In a previous role, I analyzed sales data to identify underperforming re-
gions and assess potential areas for improvement. The insights gained from
the data informed our strategy to reallocate resources and target specific

r
markets, leading to a significant increase in overall sales performance.

5
5.1
UBS
Sales & Trading
o u
y
Describe a time you worked with a team.

!
In a university group project, I collaborated with team members to de-

ts
velop a business case for a startup. We divided responsibilities, held regular
p

meetings to track progress, and combined our individual expertise to create

a comprehensive and innovative business plan. The successful completion
ro

en
of the project demonstrated our ability to work effectively as a team and
achieve shared objectives.
D

Describe a recent financial event you’ve been following.

m
I have been following the recent fluctuations in interest rates and their im-
pact on financial markets. The Federal Reserve’s decision to adjust rates has
influenced bond yields, equity valuations, and market liquidity. Understand-
m

ing these changes is crucial for developing effective investment strategies and
managing portfolio risks.
co

Pitch a company you’d invest in.

I would pitch Pfizer. Household name among drug manufacturers, Pfizer’s
stock is currently trading at a 32% discount to its fair value estimate. The
company’s large size gives it significant competitive advantages in devel-
oping new drugs, and its diverse portfolio of drugs helps insulate the com-
e

pany from any one particular patent loss, says Morningstar director Damien
th

9
 i l
Conover. They expect steady growth until 2028 when patent losses will

a
likely increase, but pipeline advancements hold the potential to mitigate
pressures. They think Pfizer stock is worth $42 per share.

m
What passion or interest helps you be successful at UBS?

e
My passion for financial markets and continuous learning drives my suc-
cess. Staying informed about market trends and advancements in financial
technology enables me to contribute valuable insights and make informed

r
decisions. This passion aligns with UBS’s commitment to innovation and
excellence in the financial industry.
o u
If UBS had to sponsor a sport, which one would it be and why?
UBS would benefit from sponsoring tennis, given its global appeal and as-
y
sociation with precision, strategy, and performance. Tennis tournaments
attract a diverse and affluent audience, providing a platform for brand vis-

!
ibility and engagement. Sponsoring tennis aligns with UBS’s commitment

ts
to excellence and its international presence.
p
ro

en
Tell me about yourself.
I am a finance graduate with a passion for market analysis and invest-
ment strategies. My academic background and practical experiences have
equipped me with a solid understanding of financial concepts and analytical
D

m
skills. I am eager to apply my knowledge and contribute to UBS’s success
while continuing to grow professionally.
m

Pitch a stock and why.

I would pitch Alphabet. At the time of writing, Google parent Alphabet is
one of just four publicly traded companies with a valuation of more than $2
co

trillion. It’s a proven Big Tech powerhouse offering not only its dominant
search engine, but also smart devices, Pixel smartphones, YouTube and a
suite of Google-branded services including Google Cloud and the Google
Play store, among many others. In late 2023, JPMorgan named Alphabet a
”top stock” for 2024, citing improving ad growth, higher margins following
successful cost cuts, and, of course, artificial intelligence. While OpenAI’s
e

ChatGPT has stolen the spotlight as the most visible consumer-facing AI

th

10
 i l
chatbot, Google recently released Gemini as the company’s competitor to

a
GPT-4. Unfortunately, Gemini’s reception has been less than stellar; the
company took some heat after a bizarre rollout of its image generation

m
feature, which inaccurately depicted the race of a wide number of historical
figures. As a result, GOOGL stock was down by as much as 5% year to date
in early March, but its fortunes have rapidly reversed since. Alphabet’s swift
market comeback was cemented in its April 25 first-quarter earnings report,

e
when the search giant reported comfortable beats on both earnings and
revenue. The company also announced its first-ever dividend, and approved
a new $70 billion share buyback program. Even after the stock’s comeback

r
– it’s now up about 19% through late August – there’s still more potential
upside ahead based on valuation alone. At 21.6 times forward earnings, if
o u
GOOGL shares were to earn enough respect from the market to command
Apple Inc.’s (AAPL) forward price-to-earnings ratio of 30.3, there’s still
40% upside from current levels. It’s not unreasonable to expect that gap in
multiples to compress. Alphabet has grown revenue and earnings far faster
y
than Apple over the last five years – a trend analysts expect to continue in
the near future.

!
ts
p

Describe a time you had to do something new.

In a previous internship, I was tasked with analyzing a new market segment
ro

en
for our product launch. Despite having limited experience in this area, I
conducted thorough research, sought guidance from colleagues, and devel-
oped a comprehensive analysis. This experience enhanced my adaptability
and problem-solving skills.
D

m
Describe a time you had to make analysis and a quick decision.
During a critical project, I had to analyze market data quickly to adjust
m

our strategy in response to an unexpected event. I used real-time data and

analytical tools to make an informed decision, which helped us stay on track
and achieve our objectives. This demonstrated my ability to perform under
co

pressure and make timely decisions.

5.2 Investment Banking

For IB roles: 2 valuation for a company and why.

e

When valuing a company, I would use the discounted cash flow (DCF)
th

11
 i l
analysis to estimate its intrinsic value based on projected cash flows and a

a
discount rate. Additionally, I would apply a comparable company analysis
to benchmark the company’s valuation against similar firms in the industry.

m
Combining these approaches provides a comprehensive valuation and helps
in making informed investment decisions.

e
5.3 Other divisions

What do you understand about the role you’ve applied to?

r
The role involves analyzing financial markets, developing trading strategies,
and managing client portfolios. It requires strong analytical skills, market

u
knowledge, and the ability to make informed decisions based on market
trends and data. The role is crucial for optimizing investment performance
o
and achieving financial objectives.
y

!
Recent development in the financial markets.

ts
Recent developments include the rise of artificial intelligence in financial ser-
p

vices and increased regulatory scrutiny on market practices. These changes

are reshaping the industry by introducing new technologies and compliance
requirements, which impact trading strategies and market dynamics.
ro

en
How do you maintain self-motivation when you experience a set-
D

back?
m
To maintain self-motivation, I focus on setting clear goals, reflecting on past
achievements, and seeking feedback for improvement. Embracing setbacks
as learning opportunities and maintaining a positive mindset helps me stay
m

motivated and resilient in the face of challenges.

co

Tell us about a time you had to adjust quickly to a new situation

or new priorities. How did you manage this challenge?
When a key project shifted priorities, I quickly reassessed our approach,
communicated the changes to the team, and realigned our resources. By
adapting our strategy and staying flexible, we successfully met the new
objectives and maintained project momentum.
e
th

12
 i l
a
What is the next big industry or product of the future that you
would like to invest in if you had the money? How much and why?

m
I would invest in renewable energy technologies due to their potential for
sustainable growth and environmental impact. Investing in this sector aligns
with global trends towards sustainability and offers long-term growth op-
portunities. Allocating significant resources to renewable energy can drive

e
innovation and support a transition to greener energy sources.

r
Describe a current or recent event and its impact on the stock
market.
o u
The recent rise in inflation rates has affected stock markets by increasing
volatility and uncertainty. Higher inflation leads to concerns about interest
rate hikes and their impact on corporate profits. As a result, stock valuations
have fluctuated, and investors are closely monitoring economic indicators to
y
adjust their investment strategies.

!
ts
6 BlackRock
p

6.1 Quantitative Research

ro

en
Tell us about a time when you encountered conflicting data. What
steps or measures did you take to get the correct information?
During a research project analyzing equity performance across multiple sec-
D

m
tors, I encountered conflicting data from different sources regarding quar-
terly earnings. To resolve this, I cross-referenced the primary sources,
such as company reports and verified third-party data, ensuring consistency
across multiple reputable databases. I also used statistical techniques to
m

identify any outliers that could distort my analysis. By conducting this due
diligence, I was able to refine the dataset and ensure the accuracy of my
research.
co

What is a recent market event and its impact on individuals and

businesses?
A recent significant event was the Federal Reserve’s tightening of interest
rates to combat inflation. This policy has increased borrowing costs, which
e

directly impacts businesses by reducing access to cheap capital for expan-

th

13
 i l
sion. Individuals are also affected through higher mortgage rates, making

a
housing less affordable. The ripple effects of this policy are felt across the
stock market, with businesses seeing reduced valuations, while individuals

m
experience a decrease in purchasing power and disposable income.

e
What has been the highest achievement of your career so far?
What made this achievement important?
My highest achievement has been developing a predictive model for bond

r
price movements during my internship at a financial firm. The model accu-
rately forecasted market fluctuations and was used by the firm to optimize
o u
investment strategies, ultimately improving portfolio returns. This was sig-
nificant because it demonstrated my ability to apply quantitative skills to
real-world financial problems, and the direct impact it had on the firm’s
performance reinforced my passion for quantitative research.
y

!
What technology have you learned recently?

ts
Recently, I have been learning and applying machine learning algorithms us-
p

ing Python, particularly in financial data analysis. I have explored libraries

such as TensorFlow and scikit-learn to develop models that predict asset
ro

en
price movements and detect patterns in large datasets. This has greatly
enhanced my analytical capabilities and has potential applications in algo-
rithmic trading and risk management.
D

m
Tell me about a time when you had to present detailed or com-
plicated information to a customer, teammate, professor, or man-
ager.
m

During my internship, I had to present a detailed analysis of risk-adjusted

returns for a portfolio of assets to a senior portfolio manager. The analysis
involved complex financial ratios, market data, and simulations. To ensure
co

clarity, I broke down the data into digestible sections, used visual aids like
graphs and charts, and explained the key takeaways in simple terms. This
approach helped the manager understand the potential risks and benefits of
the proposed investment strategy, and the presentation was well-received.
e

6.2 Portfolio Management and Investment Research

th

14
 i l
a
Why BlackRock? What are you passionate about? What do you
hope to gain from this experience?

m
BlackRock’s reputation for innovation and leadership in asset management
makes it an ideal place for professional growth. I am passionate about
investment research and portfolio management, and I hope to gain valu-
able insights into market dynamics and contribute to the firm’s investment

e
strategies. BlackRock’s diverse and dynamic environment aligns with my
career goals and interests.

r
What recent news made you excited to apply for BlackRock?
o u
The recent announcement of BlackRock’s initiative to enhance sustainable
investment strategies is particularly exciting. This move aligns with my in-
terest in responsible investing and the integration of environmental, social,
and governance (ESG) factors into investment decisions. BlackRock’s com-
y
mitment to sustainability resonates with my values and career aspirations.

!
ts
p

Describe a time you had to make a data-driven decision.

In a previous internship, I analyzed financial data to determine the optimal
investment strategy for a client’s portfolio. By evaluating historical perfor-
ro

en
mance, market trends, and risk factors, I developed recommendations that
helped optimize the client’s investment returns and manage risk effectively.
D

m
How do you stay up to date with news?
I stay up to date with news by regularly reading financial publications,
following market updates on news websites, and subscribing to industry
m

newsletters. Additionally, I engage in professional networks and forums to

discuss current events and trends with peers. Staying informed helps me
make well-informed investment decisions and understand market dynamics.
co

7 Lazard Equity Research

What do you know about the company?

Lazard is a global financial advisory and asset management firm with a
e

strong reputation in equity research, mergers and acquisitions, and restruc-

th

15
 i l
turing. The firm is known for its expertise in providing strategic advice

a
to clients across various industries and its focus on delivering innovative
solutions in a dynamic market environment.

m
What is the reason why you want the job?

e
I am interested in the equity research role at Lazard due to the firm’s rep-
utation for excellence in financial analysis and advisory services. The op-
portunity to work with a leading firm in providing in-depth research and

r
insights aligns with my career goals and passion for financial markets. I am
eager to contribute to and learn from Lazard’s expertise in equity research.
o u
Why are you the best fit for this position?
My strong analytical skills, combined with my background in financial anal-
y
ysis and market research, make me a strong fit for this position. I have
experience in evaluating financial data, creating reports, and developing

!
investment recommendations. My ability to analyze market trends and

ts
communicate findings effectively aligns with the requirements of the equity
p

research role at Lazard.

ro

en
Tell me about a time you had to “think outside the box.”
During a university project, I proposed an unconventional approach to
evaluating investment opportunities by incorporating non-traditional data
D

m
sources and alternative metrics. This innovative approach provided new
insights and led to a more comprehensive analysis, which impressed my
professors and demonstrated my ability to think creatively and adapt to
challenges.
m

What is your life’s greatest achievement?

co

8 Evercore FIG
e
th

16
 i l
a
What motivates you to work in Investment Banking?
What excites me most about Investment Banking is the dynamic environ-

m
ment and the ability to work on high-impact financial transactions that
shape the future of industries. The fast-paced nature of the work, the ex-
posure to complex problems, and the opportunity to collaborate with some
of the brightest minds in the industry are highly motivating.

e
What sets Evercore apart from its competitors, and why does this

r
appeal to you?

u
Evercore’s strong reputation for independent advice and client-focused ap-
proach is what sets it apart. The firm’s boutique model allows for a more
personal and dedicated client relationship, which I find appealing. I’m also
o
drawn to the firm’s entrepreneurial culture, which fosters creativity and
innovation in deal-making.
y

!
ts
Which of Evercore’s values resonates the most with you, and when
p

have you displayed this before?

Integrity resonates with me the most. I demonstrated this value during
ro

en
a group project at university where I had to make tough decisions that
were in the best interest of the team, even if they weren’t the most popular
choices. This experience reinforced the importance of honesty and doing
what’s right, even in challenging situations.
D

m
Talk me through a recent deal that you have been following. What
stood out to you about its implications?
m

One recent deal that caught my attention was the acquisition of First Cit-
izens Bank by CIT Group. What stood out was the strategic rationale
behind the deal – the combined entity creates a more diversified platform,
co

with enhanced lending capabilities across industries. The deal highlights

the ongoing consolidation in the banking sector and the increased focus on
scale to navigate economic headwinds.

If you were to advise any two companies to merge or acquire one

e

another, which two would you choose and why?

th

17
 i l
I would advise PayPal to acquire Square. Both companies are leaders in the

a
digital payments industry, and a merger would create a fintech powerhouse
capable of serving businesses and consumers globally. Their complementary

m
technologies would enhance both user experience and operational efficien-
cies, positioning them to compete more aggressively in the fast-growing
fintech space.

e
Describe a time when you had to work with someone whose per-
sonality was very different from yours. How did you handle it?

r
During a group project, I worked with a team member who was more detail-
o u
oriented and cautious, while I prefer to take a broader, strategic view. Ini-
tially, this caused friction, but I realized the value of balancing both per-
spectives. By improving communication and finding common ground, we
leveraged each other’s strengths, which ultimately led to a successful out-
come.
y

!
ts
Discuss a time when you failed or experienced a setback. What
p

did you learn from the experience?

In my first internship, I underestimated the time required to complete a
ro

en
financial model for a client, which caused delays in the project. I learned
the importance of time management and realistic goal-setting. Since then,
I’ve adopted a more structured approach to my work, prioritizing tasks
effectively and managing deadlines better.
D

m
m
co
e
th

18