A career in investment banking will have you working in one of the fastest-moving areas of finance. It shapes how companies grow, how major deals happen and how new ideas get funded. If you enjoy solving problems, keeping up with global markets and working in a space where no two days look the same, this could be the career for you. Here’s a simple guide to the work, the skills and the study pathways that can help you get started.

But first, what do investment bankers actually do?

Investment banking covers a wide set of services that help organisations make big financial decisions. The work changes quickly in response to the economy, new technologies and global trends. Some of the main areas include:

Mergers and acquisitions
Investment bankers are dealmakers, advising companies on strategic moves. They’ll identify potential targets or buyers, negotiate terms and structure deals to ensure the best outcome for clients.

Underwriting
When companies want to raise money by issuing stocks or bonds, investment bankers step in to underwrite these securities. They determine the best price for the offerings, manage the risk and help sell them to investors. The result? The company gets the funding it needs to grow.

Asset and wealth management
Some investment banks offer asset management services, often delivered by a wealth manager. That means managing investment portfolios for individuals, companies or institutions. It’s all about maximising returns while managing risk in line with a client’s goals.

Sales and trading
Investment bankers are also key players when it comes to buying and selling securities (tradeable financial assets like shares and bonds). They connect buyers and sellers in the stock and bond markets, provide liquidity (i.e. loan cash) and facilitate trades. This area is all about quick decisions and seizing opportunities in a dynamic market.

Equity research
Research analysts at investment banks examine industries and companies to provide feedback on investment opportunities. It’s about analysing financial data, industry trends and economic factors, then crafting reports that help investors make informed decisions.

As an investment banker, your day might start with analysing financial statements to understand a company’s health, followed by building financial models to predict future performance. You’ll craft presentations to pitch ideas to clients, conduct in-depth market research to stay ahead of trends, and meet with clients to discuss strategic moves. It’s a fast-paced, high-stakes environment, so there’s never a dull moment.

Where investment bankers work

Work in investment banking and the world is your oyster. People in the field often work with teams and clients across time zones. Major financial hubs include New York, London, Hong Kong, Singapore, Sydney and Melbourne. In Australia, organisations like Macquarie Group, Commonwealth Bank and other corporate finance teams offer roles for recent graduates and emerging analysts.

Who this career suits

Investment banking is for those who are after a fast-paced, high-energy environment and, of course, have a head for numbers. Plus, it’s all about balancing technical knowledge with top-notch soft skills. Here’s what you’ll need to succeed:

• analytical thinking to understand financial data and trends
• attention to detail because minor errors can have significant impacts
• communication skills to explain complex ideas in simple terms
• time management to meet deadlines and manage shifting priorities
• teamwork to collaborate with colleagues and clients
• resilience to handle pressure and bounce back from setbacks.

These strengths are useful across banking careers, private equity, wealth management and other financial pathways.

How to get started

You don’t need a dedicated investment banking course to enter the field. Instead, most people build a foundation through business, banking and finance or accounting degrees. So your first step is going to be enrolling in either Charles Sturt’s Bachelor of Business¹ or Bachelor of Accounting.²

These degrees provide foundational knowledge in financial principles, economics and quantitative analysis. Essential stuff for any budding investment banker.

While not always necessary, a Master of Business Administration or a Master of Professional Accounting can enhance your credentials and provide a competitive edge in the job market.

Internships are a great way to gain practical experience and understand the workings of investment banking. Many banks offer internship programs and summer analyst programs to undergraduate and graduate students.

Seeking out networking opportunities is equally important. Attend industry events, join finance clubs and connect with professionals to expand your professional network and get career advice.

In Australia, pursuing relevant certifications can also enhance your qualifications. While the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation is globally recognised and valuable for investment bankers, there are other certifications specific to Australia. 

For example, if you want to provide financial product advice to clients, you’ll need RG 146 compliance certification. This certification also ensures you meet the standards set by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC).

Why people choose a career in investment banking

Here’s a look at some of the major perks that make investment banking an exciting path for ambitious minds.

• Earning potential: One of the coolest things about a career in investment banking is the chance to make a good living. Investment bankers often earn impressive salaries and bonuses, which shows just how much skill and hard work go into this field – and reflects the strong job opportunities across banking careers.
• Climbing the ladder: Investment banking offers a clear career path to the top. You can start as an investment banking analyst and work your way up to associate, vice-president, director and eventually managing director. With each step, you take on more responsibilities and gain new opportunities.
• Building key skills: Financial analysis, negotiation, modelling and communication are all skills that open doors to roles in wealth management, banking careers, private equity and leadership roles.
• Meaningful impact: As an investment banker, you’re in the thick of it, helping shape the financial strategies of big companies and driving economic growth. It’s a challenging job, but it’s also very rewarding because you get to make a real impact on major financial decisions.

Take stock of a career in investment banking

Whether you’re just exploring options or ready to commit, an investment banking career offers challenge, growth and long-term potential. Learn more about the study paths available and find the right starting point for you by getting in touch with our team.

¹CRICOS: 103012F
²CRICOS: 074611E