Investment banking case competitions have become increasingly popular among business and finance students. These competitions provide great opportunities to gain real-world experience in solving complex business problems under tight time constraints. However, with limited preparation time, it can be challenging to perform well, especially for students new to investment banking. By understanding the typical case format and competition scoring metrics, and focusing efforts on the right areas, students can significantly improve their performance.
There are a few key things to keep in mind. First, thoroughly analyze the case prompt and attached exhibits to identify the problem statement and key questions that need to be addressed. Take detailed notes and write down your initial hypotheses. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills are highly valued. Second, develop a structured approach for tackling the case by applying suitable frameworks. For example, DCF, M&A analysis, LBO models and Porter’s Five Forces. Judges want to see a logical and methodical thought process. Third, communicate your findings clearly and concisely within the allotted timeframe. Prioritization is critical as you won’t have time to cover everything. Demo your excel skills with sensible assumptions. Finish with specific recommendations and next steps supported by quantitative and qualitative evidence.
Review case materials comprehensively to understand context
It’s easy to get overwhelmed by the details provided in case packets, especially on tight deadlines. But settling on conclusions without fully comprehending the context almost always leads to overgeneralizations that lack specificity and thoughtfulness. Review all tabs systematically, identify linkages across data, maps, presentations, articles etc. and write down every insight gained, no matter how minor it initially seems. Thoughtfully analyze how different facts and figures support or contradict each other to unravel greater meaning.
Develop structured approach with suitable frameworks
Having a game plan before diving into analysis differentiates average answers from exceptional ones. First, clarify what problem the case aims to solve and the objective – is it identifying acquisition targets, evaluating market entry strategies or predicting future performance? Next, outline 2-3 hypotheses on potential recommendations based on your initial review. Now develop an issue tree covering key areas you want to analyze further to prove/disprove these hypotheses. Common investment banking frameworks like M&A Analysis, LBO Modeling, Valuation (DCF, Multiples), Profitability Analysis and Porters 5 Forces provide robust structures for tackling a wide variety of business issues.
Master Excel – make reasonable assumptions to demonstrate skills
Develop concise excel models to demonstrate your business and numerical acumen. Structure your model logically, make reasonable assumptions on growth rates, profit margins etc. and sensitize output based on potential range of inputs. Summarize key financials, operating metrics and conclusions in a dashboard, highlight drivers of performance. Don’t overcomplicate beyond what time permits or lose points on technical errors. Judges focus mainly on the key excel functionalities relevant to solving the business problem vs. comple.
Communicate clearly within timeframe – Prioritize crucial issues
With limited analysis time, picking your battles is vital. Structure your presentation to hit key issues you’ve discovered that provide pivotal insights into the problem statement. Avoid non-essential details losing sight of the big picture. Summarize quantitative findings from your excel model to support conclusions with numbers vs. generic statements. Utilize appendix to reference models/analysis performed to instill confidence in your competence. Finish strong by directly addressing the original case prompt – what recommendations are you making given your analysis, what’s your proposed action plan and execution steps?
Success in investment banking case competitions requires a structured approach focused on maximizing your scores on parameters like problem identification, methodology, analysis, conclusions and presentation. Avoid common mistakes like lack of structure, weak excel modelling skills or inability to tailor responses to evaluation criteria. Apply suitable frameworks, build concise models, communicate crisply highlighting key insights within allotted times.