The AI Talent War: Hedge Funds and Prop Trading Firms Compete for Data Experts

The Race for AI Talent: Hedge Funds and Prop-Trading Firms Battle for Top Workers

In the fast-paced world of finance, hedge funds and prop-trading firms have long relied on data analysis to gain an edge in the market. However, with the rise of generative AI technology, a new talent war has erupted as firms scramble to hire AI experts who can revolutionize their quantitative strategies.

These firms are now seeking AI workers to join their trading teams and help build and deploy AI tools that can drive better investment returns. Some firms, like Bridgewater Associates, have even developed an “artificial investor” to manage clients’ money, showcasing the growing importance of AI in the financial sector.

But attracting top AI talent comes at a price. Hedge funds and prop-trading firms are willing to pay top dollar for these workers, who are in high demand across the economy. However, the exact salaries for these AI workers have been shrouded in secrecy, with little data available on how much they can expect to earn in this competitive field.

To shed light on this issue, Business Insider analyzed data from the US Office of Foreign Labor Certification’s 2023 disclosure data for H1-B and similar visa holders at hedge funds and prop-trading firms. This data reveals the salaries that these firms expect to pay foreign AI workers, providing a glimpse into the lucrative world of AI talent recruitment.

Despite the secretive nature of these firms, recent job listings at major hedge funds and prop-trading firms have also provided insight into the salaries offered to AI workers. New state laws requiring salary ranges to be included in job listings have further illuminated the compensation packages for these in-demand workers.

While most firms declined to comment on their AI hiring practices, the data speaks for itself. The battle for AI talent in the financial sector is heating up, with firms willing to pay top dollar for the best and brightest in the field. Check out the visa and job listing salaries below to see just how much these firms are willing to invest in AI talent.