An investment banker explains why aspiring Wall Streeters should read every section of the newspaper

pulse

June 14, 2017 4:52 PM

Breaking into the Wall Street world is no easy feat. RBC Capital Markets' Michael Ventura says reading the newspaper can help.

Breaking into the Wall Street world is no easy feat.

It's especially difficult for young people and students with non-traditional backgrounds and little finance experience.

Michael Ventura was once one of those students. He studied political science while he was an undergraduate student at Colgate University in New York. He is now a director in eRBC Capital Markets. Ventura is what's called an originator, going out and winning business from energy clients that the investment bank can raise capital for. He's been with the firm for ten years.

New York Times

Yes, that even means the style section. Staying abreast on the forces that drive business on Wall Street is important, according to Ventura, but knowledge of more commonplace points of conversation is equally important. This, he said, will help young Wall Streeters over the course of their entire career.

"Reading undefined will help young employees become well-rounded individuals which means, if they meet my wife after work and she tells them she works in the fashion business, they’ll be able to engage with her and contribute insightful or meaningful comments, and that's very valuable," Ventura said. "It shows maturity, it shows they will succeed in client-facing situations, and it engenders loyalty and a sense of community."

It also might improve a wannabe's look, which can never hurt.

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