Hi,
Can anyone share insights into the culture at Citi’s investment banking division? Is it more relaxed compared to the other big U.S. banks, or does it vary a lot by group? Also, what are the hours like compared to GS, MS, or JPM?
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Citi Work Environment and Hours
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800+
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Hey, great that you're asking. Culture and hours really shape your experience in banking.
From what I’ve seen and heard, Citi tends to have a slightly more relaxed vibe compared to places like GS or MS. People often describe the culture as more down-to-earth, and less aggressive overall. It can feel a bit more collaborative in some teams.
That said, it really varies by group. Some groups at Citi are just as intense and demanding as at other top banks. Others make more of an effort to respect personal time when things aren’t on fire. But since it’s still IB, long hours are definitely part of the deal.
Compared to GS or JPM, hours at Citi can sometimes be a bit lighter, but it depends a lot on the team. If you can, try to talk to someone in the exact group you’re targeting. That’s where you’ll get the clearest picture.
Best regards. 😊
Hi There!
Citi’s investment banking culture is generally viewed as a bit more collegial and team-oriented compared to some of the other large U.S. banks, though the experience can vary widely depending on the group and the office. The hours are still demanding, and you should expect long weeks that can easily push into the 70–80+ range during busy periods, but on average Citi is sometimes seen as slightly less intense than places like GS or MS where the deal flow and client demands are heavier.
Ultimately, the biggest factor is the specific group you join, as some product and coverage teams are known for better balance and culture while others run closer to the standard industry grind.
Hey!
Citi’s investment banking culture is generally professional and collaborative, though the environment can vary significantly by group and office. Some teams maintain a more structured and predictable workflow, while others are faster-paced with higher deal intensity.
Hours are long, often ranging from 70 to 100 per week during peak periods, which is comparable to other bulge bracket banks, though some analysts find Citi slightly more balanced than Goldman or Morgan Stanley in certain groups.
Overall, exposure, mentorship, and team dynamics tend to have a bigger impact on day-to-day experience than the bank’s overall brand.
