If you want to learn how to be a super-trader, then closely examine the
concepts in this book. It is based on a proactive trading program that
has helped my firm, SAC Capital Management, LLC, grow from a $20-
million hedge fund to one handling over $500 million annually after
only five years.
I have been trading the stock market for twenty years. Originally, I
made my trading decisions by watching the ebbs and flows of the ticker
tape. I knew very little of the fundamentals of the companies I was trading
and based my decisions on the tape action. Later, as I refined my
art, I began to combine it with a deeper understanding of the fundamentals
of the underlying companies, the industries, and the general
market trends.
I have worked with and met many traders in my life. Most combine
some form of chart reading, tape analysis, and/or fundamental analysis
to make their decisions. The super-traders, though, share certain common
traits that supersede whatever discipline they might pursue. They
are totally committed to their own particular style and demonstrate
complete conviction when trading. Because of this conviction they are
able to take large financial risks and have the confidence and belief that
probability is on their side. They also have the ability to admit their mistakes
and minimize their consequences—that is, losses—when they are
wrong. They are independent and think for themselves; they are not
easily influenced by others. Most traders, surprisingly, are not like that:
They are indecisive, lack conviction, and are afraid of taking risks and
making mistakes. They are unaware of the personal demons that are
holding them back from true success.