Morgan Stanley is one of the top investment banks in the world, offering high salaries for its investment banking associates. However, the intense workloads and high pressure that comes with the job make it challenging. This article will dive into the specifics of Morgan Stanley investment banking associate salaries, as well as provide an overview of the intense lifestyle associates take on in exchange for the high compensation.
Base salaries range from $150K to $200K for investment banking associates
According to online sources like Glassdoor and Wall Street Oasis, the base salary for a Morgan Stanley investment banking associate typically ranges from $150,000 to $200,000. However, total compensation is much higher when accounting for annual bonuses, which can range from $70,000 to $150,000 on top of base salaries. Bonuses are largely tied to individual performance and bank profits.
Salaries increase with years of experience and promotions
Within the investment banking associate position, salaries also increase with years of experience. For example, a first-year associate may earn around $150,000 in base salary, while a third-year associate could earn up to $200,000. After spending 3-4 years as an associate, high performers are promoted to vice president positions, with base salaries starting at $200,000-$250,000.
Associates work long hours for the high pay
The tradeoff for the high salaries at Morgan Stanley is intense workloads and very long hours. Investment banking associates frequently work 80-100 hours per week, including late nights and weekends. They support senior bankers in areas like creating pitchbooks, financial models, and other materials for live deals and business transactions. The high intensity and stress levels contribute to high attrition rates.
Specialized tech roles earn even higher salaries
In recent years, investment banks have been hiring more tech-focused associates for roles in areas like data science, programming, and quantitative analysis. These specialized roles earn even higher salaries than traditional investment banking associates. For example, a first-year technology associate at Morgan Stanley can earn over $200,000 in total compensation.
Morgan Stanley offers some of the highest paying jobs on Wall Street, with total compensation packages for investment banking associates ranging from $250,000 to over $300,000. But associates have to be willing to work extremely long hours and sacrifice personal time for these lucrative salaries.