Last Updated on 11 September, 2023 by Samuelsson

Jesse Livermore, known as the “Greatest Stock Trader of All Time,” was a legendary figure in the stock market who made and lost several fortunes throughout his career. While his success as a stock trader was impressive, some sources suggest that he had a gambling problem and often made impulsive trades based on his emotions. This article will explore this aspect of Livermore’s personality and its impact on his career.

The Early Years: Discovering a Love for Gambling

Jesse Livermore was born in 1877 in Massachusetts, and his interest in gambling and finance started at a young age. He dropped out of school at the age of 14 to work at a brokerage firm as a ticker tape operator, and it was here that he first discovered his love for gambling. He was fascinated by the fast-paced nature of the stock market and the thrill of making quick trades based on market movements.

Making a Fortune: Livermore’s Rise to Fame

Despite his young age, Jesse Livermore quickly established himself as a successful trader, making several fortunes in the stock market during his career. He became known for his incredible intuition and his ability to read market movements, and his reputation as a stock market legend grew.

However, Livermore’s success was not without its challenges. He was known for making impulsive trades based on his emotions, and his gambling habits often landed him in financial trouble. Despite this, he continued to make several fortunes in the stock market, and his success made him one of the most famous traders of his time.

The Fall from Grace: Livermore’s Downfall

Despite his incredible success, Jesse Livermore’s career was not without its setbacks. His impulsive nature and his addiction to gambling eventually caught up with him, and he lost several fortunes over the years. He was forced to file for bankruptcy several times, and his reputation as a stock market legend was tarnished.

In 1940, Livermore committed suicide, leaving behind a legacy of both success and failure. Despite his downfall, he remained a legendary figure in the stock market and a cautionary tale for traders who follow in his footsteps.

Conclusion: Understanding the Lessons from Livermore’s Career

Jesse Livermore’s story is a reminder of the importance of discipline and control in the stock market. While his success as a trader was impressive, his impulsive nature and his addiction to gambling eventually led to his downfall.

Traders who wish to follow in Livermore’s footsteps should take note of the lessons from his career and strive for balance and discipline in their trading strategies. With a focus on control and discipline, traders can learn to avoid the pitfalls that befell Livermore and achieve success in the stock market.