In the competitive landscape of the financial market, companies distinguish themselves not only by scale but also by their strategic focus and client approach. Goldman Sachs GS and Moelis & Company MC represent two distinct models within the investment banking (IB) industry — one is a globally integrated financial giant with diversified services, and the other is a focused, advisory-driven boutique delivering high-impact solutions.

As investors evaluate opportunities in the financial sector, analyzing these two companies’ various factors provides valuable insights into their respective strengths, risks and long-term potential.

The Case for Goldman

GS continues to maintain its leadership position in global investment banking, particularly in mergers and acquisitions (M&A) advisory, equity, and debt underwriting. In 2024, the firm posted a 24% increase in IB revenues, supported by a rebound in corporate financing activity.

However, that momentum has been reversed lately, with IB revenues falling 8% in the first quarter of 2025. While the near-term prospects are cloudy due to market turmoil and uncertainty over monetary policy, Goldman’s leading position in deal-making activities indicates enduring client trust. This, along with an increased backlog, will likely convert into higher IB revenues once the operating backdrop improves, giving GS a strategic edge over peers.

A key aspect of Goldman’s value proposition lies in its strategic overhaul. The firm is actively exiting lower-margin consumer finance businesses to refocus on high-return businesses like IB and the trading business. In sync with this, GS is exiting its consumer finance businesses, including ending its partnership with Apple on the Apple Card and Apple Savings account (may end before the contract runs out in 2030).

Additionally, Goldman Asset Management is targeting aggressive growth in private credit, aiming to scale its portfolio to $300 billion by 2030. The company’s global footprint and ambitions to expand private lending reinforce its long-term growth potential.

The Case for Moelis & Company

MC continues to reflect resilient performance, driven by its high-quality advisory platform and expanding global footprint. Despite revenue declines in 2019, 2022 and 2023 due to cyclical softness in M&A completions, the company achieved a robust 10% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) over the five years ending in 2024. That momentum carried into the first quarter of 2025, supported by higher average fees per deal and an ongoing surge in global restructuring activity as highly leveraged companies adapt to a changing rate environment.