Scoring an A on your Extended Essay isn’t just an academic win—it’s a powerful milestone for anyone eyeing a future in investment banking. It reflects sharp analytical thinking, intellectual drive, and the ability to tackle complex financial ideas with clarity. But with countless directions to explore, how do you pick a topic that truly highlights your strengths?

After years of mentoring students through the EE maze, I’ve come to recognize what sets apart the standout essays from the forgettable ones. In this guide, I’ll share proven strategies and real investment banking EE topics that have secured top marks—so you can aim high and deliver with confidence.

Picking the Right Battlefield: Topic Selection

The foundation of a successful EE lies in choosing the right topic. Think of it as selecting the right battlefield – you want terrain you can conquer. The sweet spot lies at the intersection of your passion and the availability of robust research material.

Avoid overly broad topics like “The Impact of Globalization on Investment Banking.” Instead, focus on a specific niche. For instance, “The Impact of Brexit on M&A Activity in the UK Tech Sector” offers a manageable scope with ample data.

Winning EE Topics and Samples

  • The Role of Behavioral Economics in Investment Decision-Making: This topic allows you to delve into the psychological factors driving investment choices. You could explore biases like herd mentality or loss aversion, supporting your analysis with case studies of market bubbles or crashes.
  • A Comparative Analysis of Valuation Methods Used in Private Equity Acquisitions: This is a technically challenging topic, allowing you to demonstrate your understanding of financial modeling. Compare and contrast methods like Discounted Cash Flow analysis and precedent transactions, analyzing their effectiveness in different market conditions.
  • The Impact of Fintech Disruption on Traditional Investment Banking Services: Explore the innovative landscape of Fintech and its impact on areas like trading, lending, and wealth management. Analyze specific Fintech companies and their disruptive business models.

Extended Essay (EE) Topics That Got an A in Investment Banking – With Samples

Structuring Your Argument: The Blueprint for Success

A strong EE is like a well-constructed building – it needs a solid blueprint. Your introduction should clearly state your research question and provide context. The body of the essay should present a logical flow of arguments, supported by evidence. Remember to cite your sources meticulously.

Weaving in real-world examples and data strengthens your analysis. Consider incorporating relevant quotes from industry experts or citing recent market statistics. For example, when discussing the volatility of cryptocurrency markets, you could reference price fluctuations and trading volumes.

Sample Structure for "The Impact of Fintech Disruption...":

Imagine you chose the Fintech topic. Your structure could look something like this:

  1. Introduction: Define Fintech and its key segments. State your research question: How has Fintech impacted specific areas of traditional investment banking?
  2. Body Paragraph 1: Focus on the impact of robo-advisors on wealth management. Discuss the advantages of automated investment platforms and their growing market share.
  3. Body Paragraph 2: Analyze the disruption in trading caused by high-frequency trading algorithms. Explore the regulatory challenges and ethical considerations.
  4. Body Paragraph 3: Examine the rise of peer-to-peer lending platforms and their impact on traditional lending practices within investment banks.
  5. Conclusion: Summarize your findings and offer a nuanced perspective on the future of investment banking in the age of Fintech.

The Finishing Touches: Polishing Your Masterpiece

Once you’ve crafted your essay, take time to revise and refine. Ensure your arguments are clear, concise, and persuasive. Seek feedback from teachers, mentors, or even professionals in the investment banking field. Their insights can be invaluable in identifying areas for improvement.

Remember, your Extended Essay is an opportunity to showcase not just your knowledge, but also your passion and potential. By choosing a compelling topic, conducting thorough research, and presenting your arguments effectively, you can craft an essay that earns you that coveted A and sets you on the path to success in the world of investment banking.

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