How do hours and comp compare between corporate banking and investment banking at Citi?

Hey! ☺️

I actually know a couple of people who’ve worked in both corporate banking and investment banking at Citi, so I can share what I’ve picked up from their experience and what I’ve seen more broadly.

When it comes to hours, investment banking is usually more demanding. You’re often looking at 80 hours a week plus, especially at the analyst level. Corporate banking tends to be more predictable, often around 50 to 60 hours depending on the team or current deals.

In terms of compensation, investment banking typically pays more, especially with bonuses. But corporate banking offers good pay too.

I hope this helps!

Hey there!

Having worked at Citi, I can say there’s a noticeable difference in both hours and compensation between corporate banking and investment banking, and it really comes down to the nature of work and expectations tied to each role.

Investment banking offers higher comp, especially through bonuses, but comes with much longer hours — often 75+ per week. Corporate banking is more structured, with hours around 50–60, and while comp is lower, it offers a more balanced lifestyle. It really comes down to whether you prioritize upside and pace or stability and sustainability.

Hi There!

The hours in corporate banking at Citi are generally more predictable and manageable compared to investment banking. Corporate banking roles typically follow a schedule closer to standard business hours, with occasional spikes during client pitches or major transactions. In contrast, investment banking often involves much longer hours, including late nights and weekends, especially when deals are active or deadlines are tight.

When it comes to compensation, investment banking tends to offer a higher total package, especially due to larger bonuses and faster progression early in your career. Corporate banking offers solid pay, but it's usually more stable and modest in comparison. That said, the work-life balance in corporate banking can be a major advantage for those who want to stay in finance without the intensity of traditional investment banking hours. Choosing between the two depends on what you value more at this stage: pace and pay, or balance and consistency.

At Citi, IB typically means 80–90 hrs/week with ~$200–250K total comp at the analyst level. It’s intense but well-compensated.

Corporate Banking is closer to 50–60 hrs/week, with ~$120–150K total comp. Lifestyle is more sustainable, but pay is lower and growth slower.

Choose based on your priorities: Pace and pay vs. balance and stability.

Hey, from what I've heard IB has a lot more hours, like 80 plus, while corporate banking is more chill, maybe around 50 to 60. The pay in IB is better, but it's a tougher lifestyle.