Application Process: Applied through the on-campus placement process. The company visited our college for recruitment, and I submitted my resume and cover letter through the college placement cell.
Interview Rounds:
Round 1 - Technical Interview:
Questions Asked:
Explain the concept of discounted cash flow (DCF) and its importance in valuation.
How would you value a company with negative earnings?
Walk me through a merger model.
What are the key financial statements, and how are they interconnected?
Your Approach: I focused on structuring my answers clearly, starting with definitions and then diving into practical applications. For the DCF question, I broke it down into steps: forecasting cash flows, calculating the discount rate, and terminal value. For the merger model, I outlined the steps from accretion/dilution analysis to synergies.
Outcome: Passed this round. The interviewer appreciated my structured approach and understanding of core concepts.
Round 2 - Behavioral Interview:
Questions Asked:
Tell me about a time you worked in a team under pressure.
Describe a situation where you had to handle conflicting opinions in a group.
Why do you want to work in investment banking?
How do you prioritize tasks when juggling multiple deadlines?
Your Approach: I used the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to answer behavioral questions. For the teamwork question, I shared an example from a college project where we had a tight deadline. For the “why investment banking” question, I linked my interest in finance and my long-term career goals.
Outcome: Passed this round. The interviewer liked my clarity and the relevance of my examples.
Round 3 - HR Interview:
Questions Asked:
Tell me about yourself.
What are your strengths and weaknesses?
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Do you have any questions for us?
Your Approach: I kept my “tell me about yourself” concise, focusing on my academic background, relevant skills, and interest in finance. For strengths, I highlighted analytical skills and teamwork, and for weaknesses, I mentioned being detail-oriented but working on delegating tasks better. I asked about the internship structure and learning opportunities.
Outcome: Received positive feedback and was selected for the internship.
Preparation Tips:
For technical rounds, I practiced valuation methods (DCF, comparables, precedent transactions) and brushed up on accounting concepts.
For behavioral rounds, I prepared 5-6 stories using the STAR method to cover common questions.
Mock interviews with peers helped me refine my answers and improve confidence.
Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was smooth and well-structured. I felt prepared for the technical rounds, but I could have practiced more behavioral questions to make my answers even crisper. My advice to future candidates is to focus on both technical and soft skills, as Deutsche Bank values a balance of both. Also, be genuine in your responses—interviewers can tell when you’re being authentic!
Application Process: I applied during the last week of December. After about a week or two, I was moved forward to take the test. There was a long silence afterward—about a month or a month and a half—so I assumed I didn’t make it. However, I eventually received an email confirming I had progressed to the next stage. I had about 6 days to prepare for the next steps. The recruiter was very supportive and sent helpful documents 4 days before the in-person interview.
Interview Rounds:
Round 1 - Online Test:
Questions Asked: Not specified, but it was an initial screening test.
Your Approach: Prepared using general aptitude and technical knowledge relevant to investment banking.
Outcome: Passed and moved to the next round after a long wait.
Round 2 - In-Person Interview:
Questions Asked: Met with a Vice President and a Director. Questions were likely technical and behavioral, though specifics weren’t mentioned.
Your Approach: Focused on showcasing my knowledge of investment banking and aligning my answers with the company’s values.
Outcome: Passed and advanced to the final Assessment Centre (AC).
Round 3 - Assessment Centre (AC):
Questions Asked: Tough 1:1 interviews with group heads and managing directors.
Your Approach: Prepared thoroughly using the recruiter’s documents and practiced behavioral and technical questions.
Outcome: Received an offer the next business day via phone call.
Preparation Tips:
Utilize any resources provided by the recruiter—they can be incredibly helpful.
Focus on both technical knowledge (investment banking concepts) and behavioral questions.
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently.
Conclusion:
Overall, the process was rigorous but well-structured. The long wait times were a bit stressful, but the recruiter’s support made a big difference. If I could do anything differently, I’d try to stay more patient during the waiting periods. For future candidates, my advice is to prepare thoroughly, stay calm, and trust the process—especially if you make it to the later stages.
Location: Varies (depending on the office applied for)
Application Process: I applied online through the Deutsche Bank careers portal. The process involved submitting a resume, cover letter, and answering a few motivational questions. After the initial screening, I was invited to proceed to the next stages.
Interview Rounds:
Round 1 - Online Tests:
Questions Asked: The first round consisted of numerical reasoning, verbal reasoning, and situational judgment tests. The numerical and verbal sections were timed, and the situational judgment test assessed how I would handle workplace scenarios.
Your Approach: I practiced with similar online tests beforehand to get comfortable with the format and timing. For the situational judgment test, I tried to align my answers with the company’s values and culture.
Outcome: Passed and moved to the next round.
Round 2 - Phone Interview:
Questions Asked: This was a competency-based interview with questions like “Tell me about a time you worked in a team,” “Why Deutsche Bank?” and “What do you know about investment banking?” There were also a few technical questions about financial concepts.
Your Approach: I prepared by reviewing common competency questions and structuring my answers using the STAR method. For the technical part, I brushed up on basic investment banking concepts like valuation methods and financial statements.
Outcome: Successfully advanced to the assessment center.
Round 3 - Assessment Center:
Questions Asked: The assessment center included a group exercise, a case study, and a final one-on-one interview. The case study involved analyzing a company’s financials and making recommendations. The group exercise tested teamwork and problem-solving skills.
Your Approach: For the case study, I focused on structuring my analysis clearly and justifying my recommendations. In the group exercise, I made sure to contribute ideas while also listening to others. The final interview was a mix of behavioral and technical questions.
Outcome: Received positive feedback and was offered the internship.
Preparation Tips:
Practice online tests under timed conditions to get used to the pressure.
Use the STAR method for competency-based questions to keep your answers structured.
Brush up on basic investment banking concepts, especially valuation methods and financial statements.
Research Deutsche Bank’s culture and recent deals to tailor your answers.
Conclusion:
Overall, the process was rigorous but well-structured. I found the assessment center the most challenging but also the most rewarding. If I could do anything differently, I would practice more case studies beforehand. My advice to future candidates is to prepare thoroughly for each stage and stay confident!
Application Process:
I applied through campus recruiting and also submitted my resume via the bank’s internal systems after previously working there in a different division. Once my resume was selected, I was invited for a “Super Day” at the Manhattan office.
Interview Rounds:
Round 1 - Associate & VP Interview:
Questions Asked:
Behavioral: “Tell me about a time you worked in a team under pressure.”
Technical: “Walk me through a DCF model.”
Your Approach:
For the behavioral question, I focused on a past internship experience where I collaborated with a team to meet a tight deadline.
For the technical question, I structured my answer step-by-step, emphasizing key assumptions and the rationale behind them.
Outcome: Passed this round and advanced to the final rounds after the lunch cut.
Round 2 - Director Interview:
Questions Asked:
Behavioral: “Why Deutsche Bank?”
Technical: “How would you value a company with negative EBITDA?”
Your Approach:
For the behavioral question, I tied my answer to my previous experience at the bank and my interest in their global footprint.
For the technical question, I discussed alternative valuation methods like liquidation value or precedent transactions.
Outcome: The interview was challenging but I felt confident about my responses.
Round 3 - MD Interview:
Questions Asked:
Behavioral: “Describe a time you faced a conflict in a team and how you resolved it.”
Behavioral: “Where do you see yourself in 5 years?”
Your Approach:
I used the STAR method to structure my conflict-resolution answer, highlighting communication and compromise.
For the career goals question, I aligned my aspirations with the bank’s long-term opportunities.
Outcome: The MD seemed engaged, and the conversation flowed naturally.
Preparation Tips:
For technicals, I practiced modeling and valuation questions using investment banking guides.
For behavioral, I prepared stories using the STAR method and tailored them to the bank’s culture.
Mock interviews with peers helped me refine my delivery.
Conclusion:
Overall, the process was intense but rewarding. The technical rounds were rigorous, so I’d advise future candidates to focus on mastering core finance concepts. The behavioral rounds were more about fit, so knowing the bank’s values and articulating your story clearly is key. I wish I had practiced more edge-case technical questions, but I’m happy with how it went!
Application Process: Applied through the company’s official career portal. The process involved submitting a resume and cover letter, followed by an invitation to a Superday interview.
Interview Rounds:
Round 1 - Behavioral Interview:
Questions Asked:
Tell me about yourself.
Why are you interested in investment banking?
Describe a time you worked in a team and faced challenges.
Your Approach: I focused on aligning my background and experiences with the role, emphasizing my passion for finance and teamwork. I used the STAR method for situational questions.
Outcome: Advanced to the next round.
Round 2 - Technical Interview:
Questions Asked:
Walk me through a DCF model.
How do you value a company?
What are the key financial statements, and how are they linked?
Your Approach: I structured my answers clearly, starting with the basics and then diving into details. For the DCF question, I broke it down step-by-step.
Outcome: Successfully answered the questions and moved to the final round.
Round 3 - Fit/Cultural Interview:
Questions Asked:
What excites you about Deutsche Bank?
How do you handle tight deadlines?
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Your Approach: I highlighted my enthusiasm for the company’s culture and projects. For the deadline question, I shared a relevant example from my past.
Outcome: The interviewer seemed engaged, and I felt confident about my responses.
Preparation Tips:
Brush up on technical concepts like valuation methods and financial modeling.
Practice behavioral questions using the STAR method.
Research the company thoroughly to answer fit questions authentically.
Conclusion:
The Superday was intense but rewarding. The interviewers were friendly and made the process conversational. I wish I had practiced more technical questions beforehand, but overall, it was a great learning experience. My advice is to stay calm, be yourself, and prepare thoroughly for both technical and behavioral aspects.
Application Process: Applied through campus hiring process. The interview rounds were conducted on the same day at the campus.
Interview Rounds:
Round 1 - HR Interview:
Questions Asked:
Tell me about yourself.
Why do you want to join Deutsche Bank?
What do you know about investment banking?
Describe a time you worked in a team.
Your Approach:
Prepared a concise introduction highlighting my academic background and interest in finance.
Researched Deutsche Bank’s recent deals and culture to answer the “why Deutsche Bank” question.
Explained investment banking basics and linked it to my coursework.
Shared a teamwork example from a college project.
Outcome: Cleared the round and moved to the next stage.
Round 2 - Technical Interview:
Questions Asked:
What are the three financial statements, and how are they connected?
How would you value a company?
Explain the concept of WACC.
Walk me through a DCF model.
Your Approach:
Explained the income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow statement and their interconnections.
Discussed valuation methods like DCF, comparables, and precedent transactions.
Defined WACC and its components.
Outlined the steps of a DCF model, from forecasting cash flows to discounting them.
Outcome: Performed well and advanced to the final round.
Round 3 - Case Study Interview:
Questions Asked:
Analyze a given company’s financials and suggest whether it’s a good investment.
How would you pitch this company to a client?
Your Approach:
Reviewed the financials, focusing on revenue growth, margins, and debt levels.
Compared the company to industry peers.
Structured the pitch around the company’s strengths and market opportunities.
Outcome: Successfully completed the round and received the internship offer.
Preparation Tips:
Brush up on financial statements, valuation methods, and basic accounting concepts.
Practice explaining technical concepts in simple terms.
Read about recent deals and trends in investment banking.
Prepare for behavioral questions with examples from academic or extracurricular activities.
Conclusion:
The interview process was intense but well-structured. Being thorough with technical concepts and staying calm during the case study round helped. I’d advise future candidates to focus on both technical and soft skills, as Deutsche Bank looks for a balance of both.
Application Process: Applied through the company’s online portal after attending a campus recruitment event. The process was straightforward, and I received an invitation for interviews shortly after submitting my application.
Interview Rounds:
Round 1 - Behavioral Interview (30 minutes):
Questions Asked:
“Tell me about yourself.”
“Why are you interested in investment banking?”
“Describe a time you worked in a team and faced a challenge.”
Your Approach: I focused on aligning my answers with the skills required for investment banking, such as teamwork, problem-solving, and attention to detail. I also highlighted my passion for finance and my eagerness to learn.
Outcome: Passed to the next round.
Round 2 - Behavioral Interview (30 minutes):
Questions Asked:
“What motivates you?”
“How do you handle tight deadlines?”
“Give an example of a time you took initiative.”
Your Approach: I used the STAR method to structure my responses, ensuring clarity and relevance. I also emphasized my ability to stay calm under pressure and my proactive attitude.
Outcome: Advanced to the Super Day round.
Round 3 - Super Day (4 Interviews):
Questions Asked:
Behavioral: “Why Deutsche Bank?”
Technical: “Walk me through a DCF model.”
Technical: “Explain the three financial statements and how they interconnect.”
Technical: “What valuation methodologies are you familiar with?”
Your Approach: For behavioral questions, I tied my answers to Deutsche Bank’s culture and values. For technical questions, I broke down concepts step-by-step and used examples to illustrate my points.
Outcome: Received positive feedback and an offer for the internship.
Preparation Tips:
Reviewed common behavioral questions and practiced the STAR method.
Brushed up on technical concepts like DCF, financial statements, and valuation methods using online resources and textbooks.
Mock interviews with peers helped me refine my delivery and confidence.
Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was well-structured and gave me a great insight into Deutsche Bank’s work culture. I felt prepared, but in hindsight, I could have practiced more technical questions to ensure smoother responses. My advice to future candidates is to focus on both behavioral and technical preparation and to stay calm and confident throughout the process.
Application Process: Applied online, followed by an SJT (Situational Judgement Test). After clearing the SJT, I was invited for a phone interview. Successful candidates were then called for an Assessment Centre (AC) in London.
Interview Rounds:
Round 1 - SJT Test (Online):
Questions Asked: Situational and behavioral questions to assess decision-making and alignment with company values.
Your Approach: Read the scenarios carefully and chose responses that reflected teamwork, integrity, and problem-solving.
Outcome: Cleared the test and moved to the next round.
Round 2 - Phone Interview:
Questions Asked: Behavioral and technical questions, such as “Why Deutsche Bank?” and basic finance concepts.
Your Approach: Prepared answers for common behavioral questions and brushed up on basic financial terms. Stayed calm and concise.
Outcome: Passed and invited to the Assessment Centre.
Round 3 - Assessment Centre (AC):
Group Discussion:
Questions Asked: Presented with a business case and asked to discuss and present solutions as a group.
Your Approach: Actively participated, listened to others, and structured my points logically.
Outcome: Felt confident about my contribution.
Case Study (Stock Pitch):
Questions Asked: Asked to analyze a stock and pitch it to an interviewer.
Your Approach: Used a structured approach (e.g., SWOT analysis) and focused on key financial metrics.
Outcome: Received positive feedback on my analysis.
Interviews (Competency and Financial):
Questions Asked: Competency questions like “Tell me about a time you worked in a team.” Financial questions included basic accounting and valuation methods.
Your Approach: Used the STAR method for competency questions and revised core financial concepts beforehand.
Outcome: Felt prepared and answered most questions well.
Preparation Tips:
For behavioral questions, practice the STAR method.
Brush up on basic financial concepts like valuation methods and accounting principles.
For group discussions, focus on clear communication and teamwork.
Mock interviews and case study practice helped a lot.
Conclusion:
Overall, the process was rigorous but well-structured. I could have practiced more case studies to feel even more confident. My advice is to prepare thoroughly for each stage and stay calm during the AC. Good luck to future candidates!
Application Process: I applied through a resume drop on campus, followed by two in-person interviews on campus. After clearing these rounds, I was invited for a super day with several Managing Directors (MDs). Post-offer, I was brought into the office to meet team members and rank teams. The process was straightforward, and everyone I interacted with was very friendly.
Interview Rounds:
Round 1 - Resume Drop & Initial Screening:
Questions Asked: General questions about my resume, academic background, and interest in investment banking.
Your Approach: I focused on highlighting relevant coursework, extracurricular activities, and any prior finance-related experiences. I also prepared a concise pitch about why I was interested in Deutsche Bank specifically.
Outcome: Cleared this round and moved to the next stage.
Round 2 - On-Campus Interviews:
Questions Asked: Behavioral questions (e.g., “Tell me about a time you worked in a team”), technical questions (basic accounting and valuation concepts), and fit questions (why Deutsche Bank, why investment banking).
Your Approach: I practiced common behavioral questions using the STAR method and brushed up on technical basics like DCF, LBO, and financial statements. For fit questions, I tied my answers to Deutsche Bank’s culture and global presence.
Outcome: Advanced to the super day round.
Round 3 - Super Day with MDs:
Questions Asked: More in-depth technical questions (e.g., “Walk me through an M&A deal”), market-related questions (e.g., “What sectors are you following?”), and behavioral questions (e.g., “How do you handle stress?”).
Your Approach: I prepared by reviewing technical guides, staying updated on recent deals and market trends, and practicing mock interviews with peers.
Outcome: Received an offer!
Post-Offer - Team Matching:
Questions Asked: Informal conversations with team members about their roles, expectations, and team culture.
Your Approach: I asked thoughtful questions about the team’s current projects and how interns contribute. I also tried to gauge which team aligned best with my interests.
Outcome: Successfully matched with a team that fit my preferences.
Preparation Tips:
For technicals, I used “Investment Banking” by Rosenbaum and Pearl, and practiced with online resources.
For behavioral questions, I focused on the STAR method and prepared 5-6 strong stories.
Staying updated on market trends through financial news outlets was crucial for the super day.
Conclusion:
Overall, the process was smooth, and the people at Deutsche Bank were incredibly welcoming. I wish I had started networking earlier to get more insights into the teams beforehand. My advice for future candidates is to practice technicals rigorously, stay updated on the market, and be genuine in your interactions—fit is just as important as technical skills!
Location: Hong Kong (initially contacted through Singapore HR office)
Application Process: The application process began with a lateral hiring approach for an investment banking analyst role. Since the Hong Kong office does not have a dedicated recruitment function, the initial contact was made through the Singapore HR office. The process involved interactions with associates to directors, and the interviews were highly technical.
Interview Rounds:
Round 1 - Technical Interview:
Questions Asked: The questions were heavily focused on technical aspects of investment banking, including valuation methods, financial modeling, and market trends. Specific questions included:
Walk me through a DCF model.
How would you value a company in a volatile market?
Explain the difference between LBO and M&A transactions.
Your Approach: I prepared by revising core investment banking concepts, practicing case studies, and brushing up on recent market trends. I structured my answers logically, ensuring clarity and relevance to the questions asked.
Outcome: Successfully cleared this round and advanced to the next stage.
Round 2 - Behavioral and Technical Interview:
Questions Asked: This round combined behavioral questions with technical follow-ups. Examples:
Describe a time you worked under tight deadlines.
How do you handle disagreements within a team?
Follow-up: How would these skills apply in an investment banking context?
Your Approach: I used the STAR method for behavioral questions and linked my answers to real-world banking scenarios. For technical follow-ups, I ensured my responses were concise and backed by examples.
Outcome: Received positive feedback and moved forward in the process.
Round 3 - Director-Level Interview:
Questions Asked: This round was more strategic and situational. Questions included:
How would you advise a client considering an IPO in the current market?
What sectors do you think are ripe for M&A activity, and why?
Your Approach: I focused on demonstrating my understanding of market dynamics and strategic thinking. I also incorporated recent deals and trends into my answers.
Outcome: Successfully cleared this round and received an offer.
Preparation Tips:
Technical Skills: Revise core investment banking concepts, especially valuation methods (DCF, LBO, Comps), financial statements, and modeling.
Behavioral Prep: Practice the STAR method for behavioral questions and relate them to banking scenarios.
Market Awareness: Stay updated on recent deals, market trends, and economic news.
Mock Interviews: Conduct mock interviews with peers or mentors to simulate the actual experience.
Conclusion:
The overall experience was challenging but rewarding. The technical depth of the interviews was intense, but thorough preparation helped me navigate them successfully. If I could do anything differently, I would have spent more time on recent deal analyses to provide even more concrete examples during the interviews. For future candidates, my advice is to focus on both technical and behavioral aspects, and always tie your answers to real-world applications. Good luck!
Application Process: Applied through a resume drop, followed by two in-person interviews on campus. Selected for a super day with several Managing Directors (MDs). After receiving the offer, I was invited to the office to meet team members and rank teams. The process was straightforward, and everyone was very friendly.
Interview Rounds:
Round 1 - On-Campus Interview:
Questions Asked: General fit questions, behavioral questions, and some technical questions related to finance and investment banking.
Your Approach: Focused on aligning my experiences with the role and demonstrating my interest in investment banking. Prepared for common technical questions like valuation methods and financial statements.
Outcome: Advanced to the next round.
Round 2 - On-Campus Interview:
Questions Asked: More in-depth technical questions, case study discussions, and situational judgment questions.
Your Approach: Practiced case studies beforehand and brushed up on financial modeling concepts. Emphasized teamwork and problem-solving skills.
Outcome: Selected for the super day.
Round 3 - Super Day with MDs:
Questions Asked: A mix of technical, behavioral, and market-related questions. Some MDs asked about recent deals or market trends.
Your Approach: Stayed calm and confident, used the STAR method for behavioral questions, and showcased my knowledge of current market trends.
Outcome: Received the internship offer.
Preparation Tips:
Brush up on technical concepts like DCF, LBO, and financial statements.
Practice behavioral questions using the STAR method.
Stay updated on recent market trends and deals.
Network with current employees or alumni for insights.
Conclusion:
The entire process was smooth, and the people were very welcoming. I could have prepared more thoroughly for the technical aspects, but overall, it was a great learning experience. My advice to future candidates is to be confident, stay updated, and practice as much as possible.
Application Process: Applied through on-campus recruitment process. The company visited our college for hiring interns for their investment banking division.
Interview Rounds:
Round 1 - Technical Interview:
Questions Asked:
Explain the concept of discounted cash flow (DCF) and its importance in valuation.
How would you value a company with negative earnings?
What are the key financial statements, and how are they interconnected?
Your Approach: I prepared by revising core finance concepts, especially valuation methods and financial statements. For the DCF question, I broke it down into steps: forecasting cash flows, calculating the discount rate, and terminal value. For the negative earnings question, I discussed alternative valuation methods like EV/EBITDA or precedent transactions.
Outcome: Passed this round and moved to the next stage.
Round 2 - Case Study:
Questions Asked:
Given a hypothetical company, analyze its financial health and suggest whether it’s a good investment.
How would you structure a merger between two companies in the same industry?
Your Approach: I focused on analyzing the company’s balance sheet, income statement, and cash flow trends. For the merger question, I discussed synergies, valuation, and potential integration challenges.
Outcome: Successfully cleared this round.
Round 3 - HR Interview:
Questions Asked:
Why do you want to work in investment banking?
Describe a time you worked in a team under pressure.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Your Approach: I emphasized my passion for finance and problem-solving. For the teamwork question, I shared an example from a college project where we met a tight deadline.
Outcome: Received positive feedback and was selected for the internship.
Preparation Tips:
Focus on core finance concepts, especially valuation methods (DCF, comparables, etc.).
Practice case studies to improve analytical skills.
Revise financial statements and their interconnections.
Prepare for behavioral questions with real-life examples.
Conclusion:
The interview process was rigorous but well-structured. I felt well-prepared for the technical rounds, but I could have practiced more case studies beforehand. My advice to future candidates is to start early, focus on understanding concepts rather than memorizing, and stay confident during interviews.