San Diego has emerged as a major hub for investment banking, with several top firms having a strong presence in the city. This article summarizes the key investment banking players in San Diego during 2020. There are opportunities for experienced bankers as well as new graduates interested in investment banking careers in San Diego. The investment banking job market is competitive, but also rewarding for top talent.
Top national investment banks with San Diego presence
Many of the top national investment banks have established offices in San Diego, giving local companies access to top-tier banking capabilities. Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, JP Morgan, Bank of America Merrill Lynch are among the leading national investment banks with active investment banking teams in San Diego. These global banks provide M&A, IPO, debt financing and other investment banking services to San Diego’s dynamic companies, especially in biotech, medical devices and technology sectors.
Leading west coast investment banks expanding in San Diego
In addition to the national players, some leading west coast investment banks have been aggressively growing their San Diego presence. Los Angeles based B Riley Financial has been very acquisitive, buying local boutiques like FBR and Great American Group.Others like Stifel and Oppenheimer have grown their banking teams organically. San Francisco based FT Partners also has bankers working with San Diego clients. The west coast banks bring deep domain expertise in tech and healthcare sectors.
Boutique investment banks catering to niche sectors
San Diego also boasts specialized boutique investment banks catering to niche sectors of the local economy. Bioscience and healthcare are particular areas of focus for the San Diego boutiques. Torreya Partners and Leerink Partners are two such domain specialists supporting healthcare and life sciences companies with investment banking services.
Presence of middle market investment banks
A vibrant mid-market investment banking ecosystem thrives in San Diego, with firms like Carl Marks Securities, Craig-Hallum Capital, D.A.Davidson & Co. and Newbridge Securities offering services. The middle market banks acts as trusted advisors for small and mid-sized companies looking to raise growth capital or considering M&A options.
San Diego has a diverse investment banking landscape, with leading national players, expanding west coast banks, specialized boutiques and middle market banks all providing services. There are abundant opportunities for experienced bankers as well as new entrants looking for investment banking careers in San Diego, especially in the booming tech and life sciences sectors.