Investment banking boutiques shine as big banks shed bonuses, jobs

Independent investment banks have won roles on a slew of major deals this year, highlighting the value boutique advisory firms bring to merger and acquisition negotiations.

The buzz around boutiques – and their hive of recent activity – comes as storied independents Rothschild & Co and Canaccord Genuity go private, while Credit Suisse is marketing its new-look investment bank as a “super boutique” under the CS First Boston moniker.