What Is An Investment Banker? Job Description And Average Salary

Investment Banker: Are you interested in a career where financial expertise meets strategic decision-making? Pursuing a career as an investment banker could be an excellent choice for you. Investment bankers help companies raise capital, advice on mergers and acquisitions, and manage complex financial markets.

With a projected market revenue of US$16.53bn in 2025 and steady growth, the demand for skilled investment bankers is increasing globally, including in India.

To succeed in this field, obtaining the right qualifications, such as an investment banker degree or relevant certification, is crucial. Understanding the roles, required skills, and investment banker salary will help you prepare for this profession.

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What is an Investment Banker?

An investment banker is a financial professional who helps companies, governments, and investors raise capital by offering a variety of financial services. They assist in issuing stocks and bonds, setting security prices, and managing mergers and acquisitions. Therefore, investment bankers in India have a crucial role in connecting businesses with investors, providing strategic financial advice, and managing high-value transactions.

For example, an investment banker might help a company issue shares to raise funds for expansion or assist a government in issuing municipal bonds for infrastructure projects. Their expertise ensures smooth financial operations for both corporate and governmental sectors.

Also Read: Future of Investment Banking in a Digital-First Economy

Roles and Responsibilities of an Investment Banker

An investment banker is essential in overseeing financial transactions and assisting businesses, governments, and investors in securing capital. Their work includes advising clients on mergers and acquisitions, issuing securities, and conducting financial research. Here’s an overview of the investment banker job description:

1) Advising Clients:

Investment bankers provide guidance to clients on complex financial matters, including mergers, acquisitions, and strategic transactions. They help businesses raise capital and manage investments to achieve financial goals.

2) Raising Capital:

Investment bankers assist clients in raising funds through the sale of bonds or stocks. They act as intermediaries between corporations and investors, helping companies navigate the public offering process and ensure proper pricing.

3) Financial Research and Analysis:

A significant part of an investment banker’s role is researching market trends, company performance, and investment opportunities. They evaluate risks and assist clients in making informed financial decisions.

4) Underwriting and Issuing Securities:

Investment bankers help clients by issuing securities to raise capital. This includes underwriting bonds and stocks, ensuring proper structuring, and tapping into the bank’s network of investors.

5) Managing Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A):

Investment bankers play a crucial role in facilitating mergers and acquisitions, providing strategic advice, and ensuring smooth execution to maximize value for clients.

6) Creating Financial Models and Forecasts:

Investment bankers regularly create financial models, including company valuations and forecasts, to predict business performance and guide investment decisions.

7) Preparing Proposals and Presentations:

They prepare detailed presentations and pitchbooks, outlining the benefits, risks, and timelines of potential deals, to help clients make informed decisions.

8) Ensuring Compliance:

Investment bankers ensure that their transactions adhere to legal and regulatory standards, maintaining compliance with financial agencies.

9) Working Long Hours:

The role of an investment banker, especially during deal closings, often requires long hours. They must be able to manage high-pressure situations while staying focused on client needs.

10) Managing Portfolios:

Investment bankers help clients manage and monitor investment portfolios, offering advice on performance and suggesting adjustments to align with financial goals and market trends.

Investment bankers in India, as well as globally, are essential to the functioning of financial markets, ensuring that companies and governments secure the necessary capital to grow and succeed.

How to Become an Investment Banker: A Step-by-Step Guide

Becoming an investment banker in India requires a blend of the right education, practical experience, and the necessary investment banker qualifications. Here’s a detailed guide to the process:

1. Complete Your 10+2

To start, you need to clear your higher secondary education (10+2) with a minimum of 50% marks. While you can choose any stream, opting for commerce subjects like mathematics, economics, and accountancy will give you an edge.

2. Clear Entrance Exams for Graduation

To pursue a Bachelor’s degree, you may need to appear for competitive exams such as:

Common Entrance Test (CET)
Delhi University Joint Admission Test (DU JAT)
Christ University Entrance Test (CUET)

3. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree

A Bachelor’s degree in finance-related fields like B.Com (Bachelor of Commerce), BBA (Bachelor of Business Administration), or B.A. in Economics is essential. These degrees provide the foundational knowledge required for an investment banker degree and include subjects like:

Corporate finance
Financial modeling
Accounting
Investment strategies

4. Pursue a Master’s Degree

A Master of Business Administration (MBA) in finance or an MS in Finance is highly beneficial. It equips you with advanced skills in financial management and strategic planning. Many investment bankers in India pursue an MBA from top institutions like IIMs or international business schools.

5. Get Relevant Certifications

Certifications such as Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) or specialized investment banking certifications can set you apart from others. Courses like Postgraduate Certificate in Investment Banking (PGCPIB) offered by IIMs or NSE Academy certifications in financial modeling or investment banking can help sharpen your skills and increase employability.

6. Gain Practical Experience Through Internships

Internships at investment banks or financial institutions provide hands-on experience. These internships, often ranging from 2 to 6 months, teach you practical skills and give you a chance to network within the industry. High performance during internships can often lead to full-time job offers.

7. Look for Job Opportunities

Once you’ve completed your education and gained experience, start applying for entry-level positions as an investment banker in India. Positions like Analyst or Associate are common starting points. Leverage your network, attend recruitment events, and apply directly to investment banks. Ensure your resume highlights relevant academic credentials, internships, and certifications.

8. Continue Professional Development

After landing a job, you can advance your career by continuing your education through employer-supported programs or other certifications. This helps you stay competitive in a constantly evolving industry and prepares you for senior roles in investment banking.

Also Check: Top Reasons to Pursue a Banking and Finance Course in 2025

By following these steps and obtaining the required investment banker qualifications, you can set yourself on the path to a successful career in investment banking.

Essential Skills for an Investment Banker

Investment banking demands a unique set of skills that combine technical knowledge with interpersonal abilities. Here, below are the essential skills needed:

Financial Analysis and Forecasting: Investment bankers must be adept at analyzing financial data and predicting trends. Strong analytical skills are necessary to assess market conditions and evaluate company performance.
Advanced Financial Modeling: A deep understanding of financial modeling is essential for valuing companies, forecasting future financial outcomes, and analyzing risk. Proficiency in tools like Excel and other financial software is key.
Strong Communication Skills: Investment bankers must have excellent communication skills, both verbal and written. They must be able to present ideas, negotiate terms, and maintain strong relationships with clients.
Strategic Thinking and Problem-Solving: The ability to think strategically and develop innovative solutions to complex financial issues is a must. Investment bankers are often faced with challenges that require creative approaches.
Client Relationship Management: Building and maintaining strong relationships with clients is vital. Understanding client goals and offering insightful financial advice fosters trust and long-term partnerships.
Attention to Detail: Precision in handling data and contracts is critical. Investment bankers must ensure that all financial models, documents, and compliance materials are accurate and error-free.
Negotiation and Persuasion: Investment bankers must be skilled negotiators, able to drive favourable terms during deal-making, whether in mergers, acquisitions, or public offerings.

These skills are necessary for anyone aspiring to be an investment banker in India or globally. Developing these skills can help you meet the investment banker qualification requirements and stand out in this competitive field.

Investment Bankers Salary in India

The salary of an investment banker in India can vary significantly based on experience, role, and location. Here’s an overview of the average investment banker salary at different experience levels:

Investment Bankers Salary in India
Experience Level	Annual Salary (INR)
Entry-level (Freshers)	₹5L – ₹13.5LPA
Mid-level (Associates, 3-7 years experience)	₹15L – ₹30LPA
Senior-level (Vice Presidents, Managing Directors)	₹30L – ₹60LPA

Note: The above salary estimates are based on data from various online platforms and may differ based on factors like location, performance, and specific companies.

Also Read: Top 10 Investment Banking Companies in India and Their Services

Therefore, Becoming an investment banker in India requires the right mix of qualifications, skills, and dedication. It is a demanding career with opportunities to work on high-impact financial deals and gain deep expertise in corporate finance and investment strategies.

Whether you’re starting as a fresher or aiming for senior-level positions, consistent learning, networking, and skill enhancement are crucial for long-term success in this lucrative profession.

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Investment Banker FAQs

What are the responsibilities of an investment banker?

Investment bankers are professionals who assist organizations with activities like raising capital, managing mergers and acquisitions, and providing financial advice. They combine financial expertise, analytical skills, and communication to meet client objectives.

Who earns more: a CA or an investment banker?

In India, a Chartered Accountant (CA) earns an average salary of ₹6-6.25 lakh per year, while an investment banker in India typically earns a base salary of ₹11.9 lakh per year, reflecting higher earning potential.

What qualifications are needed to become an investment banker?

To become an investment banker, you need at least a bachelor's degree in fields like finance, economics, or accounting. Additional certifications or an advanced investment banker course can boost your prospects.

What is the average salary of investment bankers in India?

The investment bankers' salary in India ranges from ₹5-13.5 lakh annually for freshers, ₹15-30 lakh for mid-level roles, and ₹30-60 lakh for senior positions like Vice President or Managing Director.

How can I start a career as an investment banker?

To start as an investment banker, complete a bachelor's degree in finance or economics and consider enrolling in specialized programs like the PW Skills BFSI Certification Online Course, which covers essential skills, soft skills training, and industry preparation.