V5 capital markets Forum

[Anonymous User]

Are S&C and DPW better for capital markets work compared to Skadden? S&C dominates the leagues table in virtually all corporate areas while DPW is known for capital markets work. Don't know too much about Skadden though. Liked people at all three.

[legends159]

If you want to focus on capital markets - go to DPW. S&C has a very strong cap mkts group but you're a "generalist" for 2 years so basically you do whatever work comes in the door needing junior staffing.

[thesealocust]

Yes, they are both probably a slight notch above Skadden. See here: http://www.chambersandpartners.com/usa/Editorial/98405

Differences between the two in terms of pure cap markets practice area strength are probably nothing more than needlessly split hairs. Differences in terms of culture, assignment system, etc. should be more important than just "which is better' if you're deciding between the two.

If you really liked Skadden, going capital markets there isn't going to exactly sentence you to a career of mediocrity and second place finishes though.

[Anonymous User]

I know that capital markets is DPW's forte, but is S&C even stronger in capital markets (which seems to be the case according to leagues table)?

[thesealocust]

I know that capital markets is DPW's forte, but is S&C even stronger in capital markets (which seems to be the case according to leagues table)?

If you're looking at league tables and coming to the conclusion that S&C is objectively better than DPW in capital markets, you aren't reading the league tables properly.

First, they fluctuate pretty frequently. Second, there are many categories and different firms have different strengths. Last and most importantly, league table standing/credit is just one factor - albeit one of the only objective and available factors. Unless something tectonic happened in the world of capital markets while I wasn't looking, there were a few firms that traded the top few spots amongst the various categories over the past few years such that it would be impossible to point to a single best firm or to quantifiably compare firms near the top like S&C or DPW.

[Anonymous User]

First, they fluctuate pretty frequently.

This. For the first half of 2013, DPW was number one in M&A. No one would argue that they are better in M&A than WLRK, Cravath, or S&C.

[Anonymous User]

The leagues tables since 2000 tell a story though.

[Old Gregg]

The leagues tables since 2000 tell a story though.

Yes, it means something awesome for the partners at the firm on top. It means absolutely nothing for the loser associates at these firms. Once you're in the upper echelon, don't split hairs. Focus on yourself and where you fit. Otherwise, you're living a pointless and unhealthy life.

[thesealocust]

Otherwise, you're living a pointless and unhealthy life.

But what about the swimming pool full of prestige points!?!?!!!11~~~1~1??