Investment Banking vs. Corporate Finance in Malaysia: Which Career Is Right for You?
Both investment banking and corporate finance offer high salaries and prestige—but they differ greatly in lifestyle, skillsets, and long-term career growth. Here’s how to decide which one fits you best.
By Matt Khoo on 2025-03-28 at 6:23 AM
Updated on 2025-03-28 at 6:31 AM
If you're aiming for a high-paying career in finance, investment banking and corporate finance are likely at the top of your list.
While they may seem similar, these two career paths offer vastly different day-to-day responsibilities, work-life balance, and skill requirements.
So which one should you go for? Let’s break it down.
1. Nature of the Work
🏦 Investment Banking:
Investment bankers work on mergers and acquisitions (M&A), IPOs, fundraising deals, and other major transactions. Their job revolves around advising clients on complex financial strategies and executing high-stakes deals.
📊 Corporate Finance:
Corporate finance professionals manage a company's internal finances—budgets, forecasts, capital planning, and performance reporting. You’re working for one company, helping it grow and make smart financial decisions.
📌 Related read: Finance vs. Accounting: Which Path Should You Choose?
2. Work-Life Balance
Investment Banking:
- Long hours: Expect 60–80-hour workweeks, especially in deal-heavy periods.
- High pressure: Deadlines and client expectations can be intense.
- Perks: High salary, fast promotions, and elite networking opportunities.
Corporate Finance:
- More balance: Standard 9–6 work hours are more common.
- Predictable pace: Monthly and quarterly reporting cycles.
- Career stability: Easier to sustain in the long term, especially with family life.
📌 Interested in a more stable finance role? Learn how to build a career in accounting and finance.
3. Skills You’ll Need
| Skill | Investment Banking | Corporate Finance |
|---|---|---|
| Financial modelling | ✅ Essential | ✅ Important |
| Communication & persuasion | ✅ Crucial | ✅ Needed |
| Time management | ✅ Crucial | ✅ Moderate |
| Business acumen | ✅ Deal-focused | ✅ Strategy-focused |
| Software tools | Excel, PowerPoint, Bloomberg | Excel, ERP systems |
4. Career Growth & Exit Opportunities
Investment Banking:
- Can lead to private equity, hedge funds, or top management roles.
- Opens doors internationally.
- More competitive to break into—but fast rewards if you succeed.
Corporate Finance:
- Clear internal promotion paths (Finance Analyst → Manager → CFO).
- Easier industry-switching (tech, FMCG, logistics).
- Better for professionals looking for long-term growth in one company.
📌 Tip: Upskill with in-demand finance certifications to boost your career in either path.
Looking to break into finance? Browse job listings on Hiredly, or take the Hiredly Work Personality Test to find out which finance path matches your strengths. Plus, join our Young Talent Community for exclusive career events, resources, and advice from top industry pros.
By Matt Khoo on 2025-03-28 at 6:23 AM