Introduction
You’re about to work through a realistic consulting-style case, similar to what you may encounter during an actual interview at firms like McKinsey, BCG, or Bain.
This case is divided into three key questions, each testing different core skills:
- Q1: Structuring – your ability to break down a vague problem using a MECE framework
- Q2: Quantitative Analysis – your comfort with numbers and logical problem solving
- Q3: Brainstorming & Recommendations – your creativity and practicality in suggesting solutions
Your goal is to approach each question step-by-step:
- Read the prompt carefully
- Write down your own answer first (ideally within a timed environment)
- Then, compare your response to the suggested model answer
- Identify where you differ — and why
If you’re stuck or unsure how to improve your structure or calculation — book a coaching session with one of our expert mentors. We’re here to help you master each step of the case process.
Q1 Structuring
A large U.S.-based retail bank has seen a significant drop in profitability in 2025.
The key question is:
“What could have caused the decline in the bank’s profitability?”
Reveal answer
Step 1: Clarifying Questions
Always begin by understanding the context of the problem — not by asking for data, but by clarifying the situation. Some helpful questions in this case include:
- What was the profit level in the previous year? (A: USD 800 million in 2015)
- Does the bank operate only in the United States? (A: Yes)
- Have other financial institutions experienced a similar decline in profitability? (A: No)
- What types of products and segments does the bank cover? (A: Full range of retail products including loans, deposits, and online payments)
These questions help ensure your structure targets the right areas of the business.
🧠 Step 2: Build a MECE Structure
A strong structure should be:
- MECE (Mutually Exclusive, Collectively Exhaustive)
- Relevant to the case
- Solvable within a case interview setting
We propose dividing the analysis into three major pillars:
Structure of the Problem:
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Q2 Quantitative Question
Calculate % of net commission income relative to total net operating income for both banks
This question tests your ability to process financial data quickly and derive actionable insights.
Reveal answer
Step-by-Step Calculation:
Conclusion: Our bank earns only about 23% of its total net operating income from commissions, while the competitor earns about 40%, indicating significant room for improvement in commission revenue
Q3 Brainstorming and recommendations
Reveal answer
Conclusion: The bank should focus on increasing its commission income, reducing operational costs, and expanding digital and non-banking services to regain its profitability and compete effectively in the market.
Helpful Hint: A strong conclusion ties your recommendations back to the client’s original concern and shows the path to measurable impact.
