Core Insights - The "721 Law" in the stock market indicates that out of 10 individual investors, 7 lose money, 2 break even, and only 1 makes a profit, highlighting the significant disparity between retail and institutional investors [1][10] - In 2024, individual investors accounted for 82% of trading volume in the A-share market but only realized less than 15% of profits, while institutional investors, making up 18% of trading volume, captured 85% of the profits [1][4] - The market operates as a resource redistribution platform, where differences in capital, information, and cognition place retail investors at a disadvantage from the outset [1][8] Trading Dynamics - A case study of a leading new energy stock showed that a private equity fund and three institutions used 12 accounts to buy 2 billion shares over three months, driving the price from 50 to 80 yuan, while retail investors increased their buying from an average of 500 million to 2 billion yuan daily [1] - When the stock reached 85 yuan, institutions began to sell off their holdings, resulting in retail investors absorbing 73% of the total buying during that period, leading to a significant loss when the price fell back to 60 yuan [1][2] Information Disparity - Institutions leverage their advantages through coordinated trading strategies, allowing them to manipulate stock prices and profit from retail investors' reactions [2][5] - Research indicates that institutions are typically 42 days ahead of retail investors in knowing about significant positive developments and 28 days ahead regarding negative news, allowing them to act before retail investors are informed [5][7] Cognitive Differences - Institutions utilize comprehensive investment frameworks based on quantitative metrics, while retail investors often rely on emotional responses and short-term price movements [7][8] - A study revealed that 65% of retail investors' buying decisions are influenced by short-term price increases, while 72% of institutional decisions are based on long-term industry outlooks [7][8] Survival Strategies for Retail Investors - Retail investors are advised to adopt a long-term perspective to counteract short-term market fluctuations, focusing on stable companies with strong cash flows [10] - Implementing contrarian strategies during market extremes can help retail investors avoid losses, as institutions often reduce positions during market highs and accumulate during lows [10] - Diversification across sectors and stocks is crucial for managing risk, contrasting with the tendency of retail investors to concentrate their investments [10][11]