Citi(US:C) Hu Xiu·2025-09-18 02:17Core Insights - The article narrates the journey of Gary Stevenson, who rose from humble beginnings to become a successful trader at Citigroup, only to leave the financial industry to pursue a deeper understanding of economic inequality and systemic issues [2][4][50]. Group 1: Early Life and Career - Gary Stevenson grew up in East London, facing poverty and challenges, which shaped his aspirations and drive for success [1][10]. - He entered the London School of Economics, distinguishing himself from his peers due to his background and experiences [9][10]. - In 2008, he joined Citigroup as the youngest trader in London, quickly becoming one of the top traders globally, managing thousands of billions in transactions [3][4][20]. Group 2: Trading Success and Challenges - Despite his success, Stevenson experienced sleepless nights and a sense of emptiness, leading him to question the true value of his achievements [5][6]. - He won a trading competition that secured him an internship at Citigroup, showcasing his unique approach to trading and market psychology [12][15]. - During the 2008 financial crisis, he capitalized on the demand for foreign exchange swaps, earning significant profits and establishing himself as a top trader [20][24][39]. Group 3: Insights on Economic Inequality - Stevenson observed that many traders lacked real-world understanding of economic issues, leading to poor decision-making during market downturns [27][32]. - He recognized the systemic nature of economic inequality, noting that wealth was increasingly concentrated among the elite while the middle class was being hollowed out [32][34]. - His experiences led him to believe that true change in the economic system required public awareness and action against entrenched interests [50][52]. Group 4: Departure from Finance - Over time, Stevenson became disillusioned with the repetitive nature of trading and the growing wealth gap, prompting him to leave Citigroup [41][46]. - After a challenging exit process, he pursued further education at Oxford University to study economics more deeply [49][50]. - He transitioned from being a player in the financial game to a critic of the system, advocating for reforms and raising awareness about economic disparities [50][52].