The Reality of Full-Time Trading: Lessons from Three Traders

After the pandemic-related market boom, multiple traders who attempted full-time trading have shared their experiences. Capital constraints, psychological toll, and undercapitalization emerged as common challenges, with many ultimately returning to traditional jobs or seeking alternative income sources.

"Trading is a very dangerous dream for young people."
— Marko Greguric, Croatian trader

The Traders' Stories

Marko Greguric (Croatia)

Traded full-time for 9 months with only losses
Achieved 3%–10% returns in 2024, but insufficient to cover living expenses
Most income now comes from side hustles
Regrets being "undereducated" and lacking discipline
Described the isolation and emotional toll as significant

Jeremy Lim (Australia)

Left a six-figure consulting job at KPMG
Made $200,000 in the last accounting year
Regrets quitting "a bit sooner" than ready
Recommendation: Trade profitably for six months to a year part-time before quitting your job

James Shemwell (UK)

Quit his job at Tesco to trade full-time after A-levels
Returns tanked from positive to near-zero
Returned to part-time hospitality work
Pressure and insufficient capital cited as key factors
The pressure of performance-based income eventually caught up with him

Broader Context

Global search interest in "trading full-time" rose 684% in the 12 months prior to the article, peaking in March 2024 amid geopolitical tensions and market volatility.

Key takeaway: The dream of full-time trading remains alluring, but these traders' experiences highlight the importance of education, discipline, adequate capitalization, and a realistic transition plan.