Pros
-Compensation is ok, but bonuses are significantly less than similar bulge brackets -Still a pretty capable bank, some decent deals and exposure -Analyst classes are filled out pretty well - diverse, smart people. Usually best thing about joining is the analyst network after
Cons
-Terrible management at practically every level. Everyone is looking out for themselves, do not care to develop junior staff and frequently throw them under the bus. -Upward movement is based more on politics than it is on merit -No direction besides cost cutting. Senior management provides no guidance, tells their bankers to cut costs but then punishes them for not closing deals. Result is a free-for-all amongst all the bankers, severe politics to stay afloat, and no consideration for the long-term -any major talent has pretty much jumped ship already after a series of poor management decisions and financial blowups due to poor risk management and a culture that encourages immense risk-taking