In the realm of finance, corporate finance operates as a specialized field that primarily serves corporations and governments needing to borrow funds. Those involved in corporate finance are referred to as "clients," reflecting the transactional and professional nature of their relationships. Unlike traders, corporate financiers manage funds without taking on significant financial risks, which has led to a perception of them as cautious or even timid in their approach to the financial markets.

Michael Lewis, in his book "Liar's Poker," emphasizes the stark contrast between the high-stakes world of trading and the more measured environment of corporate finance. The traders, who engage in riskier practices, often look down on corporate financiers, viewing their lack of risk-taking as a sign of weakness. This division highlights the differing cultures and attitudes prevalent within the finance industry, where risk and reward shape the reputations of professionals in varying roles.