Signing Bonuses? Forum

[lawstudent212]

At about the same time last year, signing bonuses became a huge thing and there were rumors of certain candidates (i.e. 4th - 7th year M&A associates) receiving upwards of $200K signing bonuses. Anecdotally, it seems like the lateral market has cooled a bit and those signing bonuses aren't as prevalent.

Anyone have any data points for recent signing bonuses?

[ChickenSalad]

At about the same time last year, signing bonuses became a huge thing and there were rumors of certain candidates (i.e. 4th - 7th year M&A associates) receiving upwards of $200K signing bonuses. Anecdotally, it seems like the lateral market has cooled a bit and those signing bonuses aren't as prevalent.

Anyone have any data points for recent signing bonuses?

I’ve heard of six figures but not upwards of 200k. Though i’m also curious about how these break down. More transparency also seems to favor associates negotiating signing bonuses

[Anonymous User]

I just received a $200K signing bonus as a lateral in bank finance/capital markets (c/o 2013). Given my favorable position and desire for promotion in the next couple years, I would not have moved for less. And I still don’t know if it’s “worth it” from a purely financial perspective. Year end bonus with hours-based bump is nearly that high these days.

[ChickenSalad]

I just received a $200K signing bonus as a lateral in bank finance/capital markets (c/o 2013). Given my favorable position and desire for promotion in the next couple years, I would not have moved for less. And I still don’t know if it’s “worth it” from a purely financial perspective. Year end bonus with hours-based bump is nearly that high these days.

Curious as to why you don't know if it’s worth it from a financial perspective. I assume they also guaranteed a full EOY bonus?

[RaceJudicata]

I just received a $200K signing bonus as a lateral in bank finance/capital markets (c/o 2013). Given my favorable position and desire for promotion in the next couple years, I would not have moved for less. And I still don’t know if it’s “worth it” from a purely financial perspective. Year end bonus with hours-based bump is nearly that high these days.

Curious as to why you don't know if it’s worth it from a financial perspective. I assume they also guaranteed a full EOY bonus?

Presumably because partnership chances may be lower at new firm (i.e., no built up personal capital / relationships)

[Anonymous User]

$50k signing bonus offered yesterday, c/o 2017. Might be able to get more haven't fully negotiated yet.

[Anonymous User]

$50k signing bonus offered yesterday, c/o 2017. Might be able to get more haven't fully negotiated yet.

Practice group?

[Anonymous User]

I recently negotiated for 60 in TX lit group as a midlevel. A "more elite" firm balked at the request and said 20k max for laterals in lit.

[Anonymous User]

$50k signing bonus offered yesterday, c/o 2017. Might be able to get more haven't fully negotiated yet.

Practice group?

Investment funds.

[Bramwell]

I just received a $200K signing bonus as a lateral in bank finance/capital markets (c/o 2013). Given my favorable position and desire for promotion in the next couple years, I would not have moved for less. And I still don’t know if it’s “worth it” from a purely financial perspective. Year end bonus with hours-based bump is nearly that high these days.

Curious as to why you don't know if it’s worth it from a financial perspective. I assume they also guaranteed a full EOY bonus?

Presumably because partnership chances may be lower at new firm (i.e., no built up personal capital / relationships)

Correct. Assuming OP is in good standing at current firm, there’s a cost associated with giving up good will and reputation to start fresh.