Finance Megafunds and Investment Banking Hours Dwarf Tech's "996" Culture, Says Investor

San Francisco, CA – A recent tweet by angel investor and Alpine Ventures founder Ed Suh has ignited discussion by asserting that the demanding work-life balance in private equity megafunds and top-tier investment banking far surpasses the intensity of the "996" work culture often associated with the tech industry. Suh, an entrepreneur with a background spanning venture capital and financial modeling, stated, "For all the people in tech & VC who think 996 is intense, PE megafunds (+ banking in M&A or top tier coverage groups) are next level. 996 in tech is a breeze compared to finance lifestyles."

The "996" work culture, prevalent in many Chinese tech companies, mandates employees work from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, six days a week, totaling 72 hours. This system, though widespread, has been declared illegal by China's Supreme People's Court due to its detrimental effects on employee health and work-life balance. Despite legal challenges and public outcry, some U.S. AI startups have reportedly begun adopting similar demanding schedules, with one explicitly asking applicants to be "excited" about working around 70 hours per week.

In contrast, the finance industry, particularly investment banking and private equity, has long been characterized by even more extreme hours. Investment banking analysts frequently report working 80 to 100+ hours per week, driven by client demands, unpredictable deal flows, and a deeply ingrained culture of intense dedication. Private equity megafunds, while sometimes offering slightly more predictable schedules than banking, can still demand 70-80 hours weekly, with deal sprints pushing well beyond this. Associates at these firms often experience late nights and weekend work, with some reports indicating hours comparable to or even exceeding those in investment banking during peak periods.

Ed Suh's perspective is informed by his experience in both spheres. His career includes roles in investment banking at Merrill Lynch and venture capital at Redpoint Ventures and Goodwater Capital before founding Alpine Ventures. His tweet highlights a stark reality: while "996" is a recognized symbol of overwork in tech, the financial sector's top echelons operate under a regime of intensity that, for many, remains unparalleled. This comparison underscores the differing pressures and expectations across high-stakes industries, where long hours are often seen as a prerequisite for success and advancement.