Pros
The firm is relatively laid back and management typically does not look over your shoulder every minute. But they do demand analysts work long hours (even though they pay lower than the market).
Cons
This was a very bizarre experience to say the least. I received no real training and I did not grow my skill set by being there (I assume experienced analysts would do better there than entry level analysts). This is not a place for people who consider themselves value investors. I would guess this is for momentum traders. Also there is a daily quota of data entry that the analysts are required to fill. This takes about half of each day. If you go on vacation, you must make up for all the days' entries you missed. If management disagrees with one of your data entries, prepare for a 3-4 hour scolding. Culturally, it was strange. Management is very condescending and their comments can be borderline inappropriate. I do not know what they expect to achieve with this kind of environment. As a result, analysts don't talk to each other for fear of word getting around to management. Also management's instructions are inconsistent, leaving the analysts in a constant state of confusion. Compensation is significantly below market and there is no opportunity for job growth. Not surprisingly I heard there is a lot of analyst turnover. I do not recommend this firm for aspiring investment analysts.