"I also agree with those who've suggested looking at the exams and certification descriptions. Those will tell you what kind of work falls into what category, and whether you want to go down that path. If there's one thing I've learned as a (maturing) DBA, it's that it is almost never 100 percent one thing - as others have said, it might be 75/25 or even 50/50. But at least by knowing the way the specialties are being broken down you will be better informed about what the positions are describing, reading between the lines if the ad is unclear or even preparing you to ask the employer about the tasks involved if necessary."

So true. In so many industries, positions are being consolidated and a lot of employers are looking for part this/part that.

I still see no problem with specializing, though. In terms of pay, people who become subject matter experts often have higher pay, but less longevity (they tend to come on a project or fill in as someone who is providing oversight rather than come into a job more long term). The more broad you are, the more likely you are to fit into a unique position and find something more long-term, but the pay might not be quite as high.

But that's in general. It certainly hasn't applied to every position I've looked at. I would pursue the area you have the most interest in. The passion you have for it will be the most attractive thing about you. And there's no need to necessarily transition out of banking/finance into IT because every industry needs SQL DBAs, developers, architects, BI, etc.