Working in finance in New York: a complete guide to success on Wall Street
Why is New York the financial capital of the world?
The sectors in which New York excels make it an economic center not to be missed. New York is considered the financial capital of the world, thanks to its concentration of major banking institutions, influential stock exchanges and business-friendly environment. Wall Street, in particular, is the beating heart of the global financial sector, attracting investors, companies and talent from all over the world. The city offers a solid regulatory framework and an advanced technological infrastructure, fostering financial innovation. The diversity of regional employment opportunities in the USA also enables finance professionals to position themselves strategically in this competitive environment.
Major financial institutions based in New York
New York is home to the headquarters of many world-renowned financial institutions. Among the most influential are :
- Goldman Sachs – Leader in financial consulting and investment.
- JPMorgan Chase – America’s largest bank in terms of assets.
- Morgan Stanley – Specialized in wealth management and financial markets.
- Citigroup – A global bank offering a wide range of services, from retail banking to investment banking.
- New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) – The world’s largest stock exchange by market capitalization.
In New York, where Media and Entertainment coexist, finance rubs shoulders with other industries of global importance, offering varied career prospects for ambitious professionals.
The different financial sectors in New York
Investment banking
Investment banks play a key role in corporate finance, mergers & acquisitions and asset management. They offer specialized services to major corporations and governments worldwide. Working in this sector allows you to acquire valuable expertise and benefit from the diversity of regional employment opportunities in the United States.
Trading and financial markets
Trading is at the heart of the New York economy, with financial markets such as the NYSE and NASDAQ. These markets enable the buying and selling of stocks, bonds and derivatives, attracting traders from all over the world. Like a career in fashion in New York, finance requires a high level of responsiveness and a thorough understanding of market trends.
Fintech and financial innovation
New York is a hub for fintech startups, developing innovative solutions in payments, cryptocurrencies and artificial intelligence applied to finance. Companies such as Stripe, Robinhood and Square have a significant presence here.
Average salaries in the financial industry in New York
| Sector | Average annual salary ($) |
| Investment banking | 150 000 – 300 000 |
| Asset management | 120 000 – 250 000 |
| Trading | 100 000 – 250 000 |
| Fintech | 90 000 – 200 000 |
| Audit and consulting | 80 000 – 180 000 |
How do I get into the financial industry in New York?
Training
To enter the New York financial sector, it’s crucial to have the right educational background. Degrees in finance, economics or management from universities such as Columbia University or New York University (NYU) are highly prized. Obtaining a certification such as CFA(Chartered Financial Analyst) can also offer a competitive advantage.
Building a professional network
Networking is essential in New York. Attending financial events, joining professional associations like the New York Financial Services Group, and being active on LinkedIn all help to make valuable connections.
Obtaining a green card to work in New York
For foreigners wishing to work in New York, obtaining a greencard is an essential step towards a long-term career. Many financial companies sponsor these visas for qualified talent.