Widely Used For

Capital Raising & Underwriting
Firms issue equity (e.g., IPOs) or debt securities (e.g., bonds), and investment banks help structure, price, and distribute these instruments. They may act as underwriters, assuming risk by buying the securities upfront (firm-commitment) or agreeing to make “best efforts” to sell (best-efforts)

Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A)
Banks advise on buying, selling, or merging businesses—running valuations, negotiating terms, and coordinating legal and regulatory steps

Debt Syndication & Bond Arrangements
Large debt issues (e.g., bonds, loans) are structured and syndicated among institutions. A lead arranger coordinates this process

Private Placements
Broader activities may include equity/debt research, sales & trading, and crafting financial models—though not always part of core advisory work

Ancillary & Support Services
Broader activities may include equity/debt research, sales & trading, and crafting financial models—though not always part of core advisory work