Gen Z and millennial day traders share their experiences transitioning to full-time stock investing

From Yahoo Finance: 2025-06-23 16:36:00

Some young Americans are turning to trading stocks full-time as an alternative to a traditional 9-to-5. BI spoke to Gen Z and millennial traders about their experiences navigating the market full-time, with varied outcomes. Carmine Rosato, a 26-year-old day trader, has made six figures in a month, finding freedom and control in his work.

Rosato was drawn to trading after a high school project and seeing family members unhappy in corporate jobs. He committed to learning how to day trade, eventually dropping out of college. Controlling losses and limiting trading time have been key to his success, affording him luxuries and freedom.

Ross Cameron, a 40-year-old day trader, started with a dummy stock portfolio in middle school. After his father’s death, he funded a brokerage account and began day trading full-time. His strategy of trading high volatility stocks and limiting losses has led to an average monthly profit of $157,000, providing security for his family.

Edgar Camacho, a 35-year-old nurse, got into day trading a decade ago and took a sabbatical to trade full-time. Despite making quick gains, he lost most of his savings, ultimately returning to work. Camacho cautions against the allure of day trading and believes the best strategy is to buy and hold in the market for the long term.

Read more: Gen Z and millennial day traders tell us about switching from the 9-to-5 experience to full-time stock investing