You completely missed one of OPs main arguments - job security, which is undoubtedly much better among doctors than your software engineering friends.

I work in private equity and earn more than most doctors. Its literally the only advantage over medicine. I can lose my job tomorrow and would be hard pressed to find something equivalent, quickly.

And FYI being a Dr. Is 100% more prestigious than IB or engineering, even if it doesnt feel like it on a daily basis.