How to Become Investment Banker in 2025

How to Become an Investment Banker in 2025: An Investment Banker is one of the most prestigious and best-paying professions within the financial sphere. These are professionals who assist companies to raise funds, oversee big transactions such as mergers and acquisitions and offer strategic financial guidance. In 2025, the investment banking industry is growing rapidly, and skilled bankers are in high demand, especially in developing countries like India.

How to become an investment banker in 2025 involves more than just earning a degree. They must have strong analytical skills as well as financial knowledge and practical experience via internships. It is also important to develop a network of professionals, obtain relevant certifications and be informed about the trends in the market. Learn more about how to become an investment banker in 2025, the role, whether an MBA is required, salary details, and more below.

Investment Banking Program with PwC India

Who is an Investment Banker?

An Investment Banker is a finance professional in the field of assisting companies, governments, as well as large organizations in fundraising and managing key financial transactions. Their primary activities relate to facilitating stock and bond issues to companies, advising on mergers and acquisitions (M&A), and providing guidance to companies through initial public offerings (IPOs).

Investment bankers serve as an interface between the companies and the investors. They assist in negotiating deals, verifying financial risks, and ensuring exclusive maintenance of all rules and laws. Their objective is to enable the clients to achieve optimal financial outcomes. Investment bankers also participate in corporate restructuring, in private placements, and in debt advisory; hence, in the world of finance, they are an essential participant.

How to Become an Investment Banker in 2025?

In 2025, becoming an Investment Banker requires the appropriate combination of education, expertise, and experience. Investment banking is a competitive career, but with the proper steps, it is possible to build a strong future in investment banking.

1. Educational Qualifications

Start with a bachelor’s degree in Finance, Economics, Accounting, or Business Administration. This forms the foundation for understanding financial markets and business operations. An MBA is not necessarily required, but it can increase the chances of being hired in leading investment banks and stepping into more senior positions. 

2. Skill Development

Learn essential technical skills such as financial modeling, valuation methods, and using Excel efficiently. In addition, develop soft skills such as analytical thinking, problem-solving, and good communication, as they will help to perform daily activities and work with clients.

3. Certifications

The addition of certifications such as the CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) or FMVA (Financial Modeling & Valuation Analyst) can highlight expertise in finance and distinguish a resume and making it stand out.

4. Internships and Practical Experience

Work on internships, live projects, or take part in case study competitions to gain hands-on experience. Starting with boutique investment firms or small finance companies can provide good learning opportunities and open doors to larger firms.

5. Networking

Build professional connections through LinkedIn, college alumni networks, or finance events. Networking becomes highly essential because most of the investment banking jobs are filled using referrals and recommendations.

6. Entry-Level Roles

Start a career in roles like Investment Banking Analyst or Associate. With more experience and strong performance, it is possible to move into senior advisory or leadership positions.

This is a career path that can take effort to complete, but every step is progressively leading to a successful investment banking career.

Role of an Investment Banker

The role of an Investment Banker is to help companies, governments, and institutions manage large financial tasks. They provide expert advice and act as intermediaries in raising money, reducing risk, and completing important financial deals. Their work supports the growth of businesses and keeps financial markets stable.

1. Capital Raising

Investment bankers assist companies in raising capital by issuing equity, which means selling shares, or debt, which means issuing bonds. They design the structure of the deal, price the securities correctly, and connect businesses with investors.

• Initial Public Offerings (IPOs): The IPO is a new venture in which investment bankers see companies into their first venture into going public. They assist in the computation of legal documents, determination of shares prices and advertising of the offer to possible investors.

• Debt and Equity Issuance: They help companies in funds generation through creation and issuance of new bonds or issuance of shares. They source investors and ensure that the whole process observes both the legal and financial regulations.

• Underwriting Securities: Sometimes, investment banks buy the new securities from the company and sell them to the public. This means the bank takes the risk if the securities do not sell well. This process helps build trust and supports smooth trading in the market.

2. Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A)

Investment bankers help companies that want to buy, sell, or merge with other businesses. These services are known as mergers and acquisitions.

• Advisory Services: They advise both buyers and sellers. For the seller, they help find buyers and secure the best possible price. For the buyer, they help choose the right company to buy and guide them through the process.

• Valuation: Investment bankers use financial tools and models to find the true value of a business. This information helps during deal discussions and ensures fair pricing.

• Negotiation and Deal Execution: They manage the full process of the deal from the early planning stages to the final agreement. Their goal is to protect the client’s interest and ensure a successful transaction.

3. Other Key Responsibilities

In addition to capital raising and mergers and acquisitions, investment bankers handle several other important tasks that support clients and financial deals.

• Financial Restructuring: Investment bankers assist companies in financial trouble. They give advice on how to reduce debt, manage resources better, and improve financial health.

• Financial Modeling and Analysis: They build detailed models to predict future performance, measure risk, and support decision-making.

• Pitchbooks and Presentations: Investment bankers prepare clear and professional presentations to attract new clients and explain financial strategies.

• Client Relationship Management: Building and maintaining strong relationships with clients is important. This helps in gaining trust and bringing in future business.

• Market and Industry Knowledge: Investment bankers must stay informed about the latest market trends, industry developments, and financial regulations to give the best advice to their clients.

Is MBA Required for Investment Banking?

An MBA in investment banking is not always required to start a career as an investment banker. But it is still one of the most successful, and common methods to enter the industry, particularly among career-switchers and those who aspire to work in the most prestigious firms.

Why an MBA Helps

• An MBA from a top-ranked program greatly improves your chances of getting jobs at leading banks like Goldman Sachs or JPMorgan.

• MBA programs provide good networking, internships, and campus recruitment and this will break into the investment banking sector.

• Specialized MBA courses cover important topics such as mergers and acquisitions (M&A), corporate finance, and valuation techniques that are essential in investment banking.

When an MBA Is Not Mandatory

• Entry-level roles like analyst positions often accept candidates with a bachelor’s degree in finance, economics, or business administration.

• Candidates with professional certifications such as the CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst), strong internships, or experience in boutique firms can also succeed without an MBA.

While an MBA in investment banking is a valuable asset that opens many doors, it is not the only path. Building strong skills, gaining real-world experience, and networking strategically are equally important for a successful career in investment banking.

Salary of Investment Banker 

Investment Banker salary in India varies depending on experience, company reputation, location, and individual performance. In 2025, investment banking will remain one of the highest-paying jobs in finance. Salaries increase as professionals gain more experience and move into senior roles. Bonuses and incentives also add significantly to total earnings.

If you're looking to start a career in investment banking, the PW Investment Banker course offers the essential skills needed, including financial analysis, valuation, and deal-making. The course provides live sessions, case studies, and expert guidance to give you a real-world understanding of finance. With flexible learning options and hands-on projects, it’s designed for both beginners and professionals aiming for roles in investment banking. It’s the perfect opportunity to build your expertise and advance in the finance industry. Enroll today!