As investment banking continues to evolve, the Series 79 exam remains a critical credential for professionals leading complex transactions. Whether advising on M&A, raising capital, or navigating regulatory filings, the exam sets the standard for industry readiness.
What Is the Series 79 Exam?
Officially called the Investment Banking Representative Exam, the Series 79 assesses the core knowledge necessary for professionals working in:
- Mergers and acquisitions (M&A)
- Debt and equity offerings (public or private)
- Restructurings, tender offers, and financial advisory services
It is intended for individuals who perform investment banking functions and must be taken in conjunction with the SIE exam, along with sponsorship by a FINRA-member broker-dealer.
Series 79 Exam Format and Focus Areas
The exam rigorously evaluates a professional’s ability to advise on complex capital transactions:
- 75 scored multiple-choice questions
- 2 hours and 30 minutes to complete
- Focus areas include valuation, deal structuring, due diligence, SEC filings, and legal compliance
Candidates must understand not just the financial implications of transactions, but also the legal and regulatory components of deal execution.
Why the Series 79 Is Critical in Investment Banking
In an increasingly regulated environment, Series 79 ensures investment bankers can:
- Provide sound advice on capital raising and restructuring
- Navigate disclosure, due diligence, and fiduciary obligations
- Interface effectively with legal counsel, regulators, and institutional investors
This license is not optional for professionals executing deals under the oversight of the SEC and FINRA.
FNEX: Infrastructure for Licensed Investment Banking Professionals
FNEX supports investment banks and deal professionals with a fully compliant broker-dealer framework:
- Series 79 sponsorship and CRD onboarding
- Regulatory supervision of capital markets and advisory activity
- Scalable compliance services for sell-side and buy-side mandates
From capital raises to advisory services, FNEX provides the back-office and compliance support you need to focus on execution.
LEARN MORE ABOUT FNEX COMPLIANCE SERVICES
Equip Yourself to Lead in Capital Markets
For professionals in investment banking, the Series 79 is more than an exam—it’s a license to operate with credibility and compliance. Partner with FNEX to access the regulatory infrastructure you need to execute confidently and scale strategically.
