I play the market here and there. Used to be in the industry myself, but lost most of my hair trying to cold call....in excess of 400 calls a day. But, those were the old days. The only thing good I got out of it was how to invest for myself. However, lately, the market has been pretty bearish on my portfolio and I haven't been playing with it much.
My whale used to be MDT (Medtronics). I purchased a nice lot at about the low 30s and it grew to about 52 or so...now, it's somewhere around the low 40s. I made a nice return on it, but it's just roller coastering around right now. The reason I hold on to it is from a little tip I got years ago...but, I don't know if it will ever come to be.
I'm not as aggressive as some of the things you spoke about...not brave enough for day trading. Seen some jump out of windows due to that. However, my retired father spends his days buying and selling...and a round of golf here and there. He makes more money today on the market than he did in his medical professoin. Maybe one day, if I have the time, I can learn more from him.
I'm also a member of an Investor group here in town...but, we mostly just do reports and drink beer. Our holdings are up about 6%. Not bad for a bunch of party animals. LOL
Good topic.