Gary Stevenson's Wealth: From East London to Trading Success

Ever wondered how a kid from East London became a millionaire trader? How did Gary Stevenson's wealth journey unfold from humble beginnings to financial success?

In his book The Trading Game, Gary Stevenson shares his remarkable story of ambition, intelligence, and strategic thinking. You'll discover how he navigated the high-stakes world of finance, from selling penny sweets at school to making millions at Citibank.

Read on to explore Gary Stevenson's wealth accumulation, the toll it took on his life, and the unexpected turn his journey took after leaving the trading floor.

From East London to Financial Success

Gary Stevenson's wealth journey from a humble background in East London to becoming a successful trader is a tale of ambition, intelligence, and strategic thinking. Growing up near London's financial district, Gary was acutely aware of his family's economic limitations. But this didn't deter him from dreaming big and ultimately building his fortune in the world of finance.

As a young entrepreneur, Gary started selling penny sweets at school when he was just 12 years old. By 13, he had a paper route bringing in weekly earnings. These early ventures showcased his business acumen and drive to succeed.

However, Gary's path wasn't without its bumps. At 15, he narrowly avoided expulsion from his grammar school for selling a small amount of marijuana. This incident forced him to transfer to a public school, a detail he often had to explain in later job interviews.

Academic Excellence and Entry Into Finance

Gary's intelligence truly shone when he entered the London School of Economics. He stood out from his peers, not just for his East London accent and tracksuit attire, but for his intense focus on his studies. While others were already planning their financial careers, Gary immersed himself in academics.

His dedication paid off. In 2008, Gary's comprehensive study at LSE demonstrated his exceptional abilities, particularly in mathematics. This prowess in math would prove crucial in landing him a prestigious position as a trainee at Citibank, marking his entry into the world of finance.

Rising Through the Ranks at Citibank

At Citibank, Gary quickly established himself as a leading figure in trading. His expertise was evident in his tactical approaches within international financial markets, particularly in providing US currency loans. During the 2008 financial crisis, Gary capitalized on his understanding of the changing economic landscape, profiting from situations where traditional lending avenues had disappeared.

Gary's strategic anticipation of market movements led to substantial profits. He took advantage of interest rate differences, entering deals where he provided US dollars for loans at higher rates in currency swap markets. His contributions to both earnings and risk reduction earned him respect and a solid reputation in the financial sector.

Living the High Life

With his rapid rise in the trading world came the lavish lifestyle often associated with successful traders. Gary enjoyed luxurious dining experiences and extravagant trips alongside brokers. His financial success allowed him to purchase a high-end apartment, marking a significant milestone in his swift ascent within the financial trading community.

However, as Gary climbed higher on the ladder of success, he found himself growing increasingly estranged from his modest beginnings. The competitive trading landscape brought him markers of achievement, but it also obscured the simple life he once knew.

Disillusionment and a Desire for Change

As Gary's understanding of the financial system deepened, he became increasingly disillusioned. He began to see the inherent problems within the economic structure, particularly the growing disparity between social strata. His wealth grew through trading, but he noticed this coincided with an increase in national debts of countries like Italy.

Gary's in-depth examination revealed flaws in conventional economic theories. He observed that economists often fixate on aggregates and averages without considering wealth distribution, leading to skewed perceptions and ineffective models. This realization led him to believe that an economic downturn was inevitable.

The Toll of Trading

The high-pressure atmosphere of trading took its toll on Gary's physical and mental health. His appearance became disheveled, and he experienced cardiac discomfort and insomnia due to stress. His deteriorating mental state, exacerbated by poor nutrition and lack of rest, forced him to seek medical help and temporarily step away from his responsibilities at the bank.

As Gary grappled with the fundamental ethical dilemmas present in the sector, he found himself increasingly discontent. He wrestled with an internal conflict, recognizing the dissonance between his situation and his ethical principles.

A New Direction

Gary's struggle to leave the trading sector was mired in legal issues and marked by considerable emotional distress. When he broached the topic of his departure with Citibank, he encountered significant resistance. The bank employed strategies to prevent his exit, including legal maneuvers and manipulating his bonus structure.

Despite these challenges, Gary intensified his efforts to become independent and free from Citibank's oversight. He braced himself for a battle to preserve his independence, aware of the potential manipulation and substantial sway held by the financial institution.

Life After Trading

Following his departure from Citibank, Gary experienced a phase of instability. He encountered a complex spectrum of emotions, including anxiety that required medication and impacted his personal life. However, he also felt a subtle sense of relief, underscored by his eagerness for liberation and growing disenchantment with the corporate and market trading milieu.

Gary set out on a fresh path committed to addressing inequalities. He began collaborating with a group dedicated to tackling economic imbalances, marking a significant shift from his banking career. His new living conditions, while less lavish than before, symbolize his move towards a more purposeful and grounded existence.

As Gary's story continues to evolve, his future path remains uncertain yet hopeful. He contemplates his journey ahead, pondering the influence of fortune and expertise throughout his existence. While his intentions aren't solidified, it's clear that Gary Stevenson's wealth has given him the freedom to pursue a more meaningful application of his talents and knowledge.