Is day trading just gambling?… or worse?

General
1

I’m into investing, and I keep seeing folks treat day trading like some kind of sport. They act like with enough discipline and study, anyone can make it big. Sure, a few might make real money, but for most, it’s not sustainable. Plus, how much of it is just luck?

I’m not here to hate—if someone succeeds, good for them. But honestly, what value are they providing? If you’re offering a service, fine, money in exchange makes sense. But putting money into an equity, hoping for profit, seems wild. Good luck, but please think twice before risking your life savings.

2

This forum generally agrees with you. Most here think day trading is risky.

3

Ray said:
This forum generally agrees with you. Most here think day trading is risky.

I think it’s more about gambling for excitement than actual strategy.

4

Amari said:

Ray said:
This forum generally agrees with you. Most here think day trading is risky.

I think it’s more about gambling for excitement than actual strategy.

I agree. Too many treat it like a casino, hoping for a quick win. It rarely works long term.

5

Ray said:
This forum generally agrees with you. Most here think day trading is risky.

Fair point. I didn’t mean to lump this forum with the more reckless ones.

6

You’re just jealous you don’t know about my secret crayon strategy.

7

Wei said:
You’re just jealous you don’t know about my secret crayon strategy.

Do you use the small pack or the big one? I find more colors give better results.

8

Oli said:

Wei said:
You’re just jealous you don’t know about my secret crayon strategy.

Do you use the small pack or the big one? I find more colors give better results.

Nice try. I’m not giving away my secrets.

9

@Wei
I prefer green crayons myself, though I always seem to end up with the red ones.

10

Wei said:
You’re just jealous you don’t know about my secret crayon strategy.

Alright, I’m curious—explain this strategy.

11

Lexi said:

Wei said:
You’re just jealous you don’t know about my secret crayon strategy.

Alright, I’m curious—explain this strategy.

No way, buddy. Can’t let you steal my edge.

12

@Wei
Why the downvotes? I just wanted to learn.

13

Lexi said:
@Wei
Why the downvotes? I just wanted to learn.

Because deep down, we all know you’re doubting us traders.

14

Wei said:

Lexi said:
@Wei
Why the downvotes? I just wanted to learn.

Because deep down, we all know you’re doubting us traders.

Haha, maybe.

15

Ever hear about the person who made a small fortune day trading? They started with a big one.

16

You definitely came to the right crowd. I dabble in trading, but I can’t afford the stress—or the caffeine—for full-on day trading.

17

Honestly, you have better odds at the blackjack table.

18

The candlestick pattern jargon cracks me up. And the folks who get lucky once and think they’re pros.

19

I’m reading The Big Short. It pretty much calls it gambling.

20

Ozzy said:
I’m reading The Big Short. It pretty much calls it gambling.

The movie is great too, especially with Christian Bale as Michael Burry.