Hello TS,

Congratulations on the offers, I'm sure you've worked very hard to secure them. I myself am holding an offer for CMAP in RxB, which I'm planning to accept (Assessment Centre with CIMB this coming August, dinged by MxB after interview). I'm a long time lurker and I'm replying cause I've been in the same situation before haha!

Anyway, I just wanted to share my thought process on choosing Big4 vs Local IBs (think MxB, CxMB, RxB).

1. Deals' size - Top 3 local IBs are all well connected within GLCs' economy, so they're exposed to more big deals. Big4's probably won't get as many, most likely due to the nature of banking regulations in Malaysia and the networks they have.

2. Cross functional rotations- Local IBs offer very competitive rotations. For RxB's CMAP at least, you'll get exposure to ECM, DCM, M&A, CF and Derivatives. The choices are up to you and should align with your personal interests. Whilst no doubt Big4's produce high quality of junior associates/new hires, the lack of exposure to different functions will probably limit your exit ops in the future. I'm still new to the industry so I think I shouldn't limit myself into a specific function. Who knows I might hate it and eventually quit.

3. Regional Exposure - Associates will go through one of the rotations in other countries. Think SG/HK since they are the main financial hub within Asia. I feel that I could leverage this opportunity to strengthen my networks within those countries and potentially set foot in them, be it through a regional office transfer or lateral move into another firm.

4. Networking - Please don't underestimate the power of networking. I can't count how many times networking has opened doors for myself. I've gotten internships/interviews/information about industry and companies that I think were way out of my league. The people you'll be working with in IBs are very bright. Heck, I was told RxB only offered 2-3 candidates for their research programme (the one you've got) for UK graduates. I'm sure the opportunity to grow your network within IB will be valuable in the long run.

As for exit ops, I'm not too sure about them myself. I just think Local IBs offer better prospects for my career in the long run. For MBA, I did a little research as I'm planning to do it in the future. M7 is going to be tough, but not impossible. Gotta do very very well for GMAT (730-750+), good extracurricular activities (prepare early - join non-profits, charities and what not), solid undergrad and recommendations. This is all I can offer for now from a fellow fresh graduate, I hope it helps! If you'd like to connect just send me a PM!

Cheers

No problem! Just happy to contribute whenever I can. Good luck moving forward!