Why the best investors are 'functional psychopaths'

IT PAYS TO BE A 'FUNCTIONAL PSYCHOPATH'

clock

Economist Joe Roseman reveals the psychological profile of a successful investor.

About a decade ago, the husband of one of my wife’s friends called me one evening. He had heard from his wife that I was “in financial markets” and that I worked at one of the big hedge funds. I had never spoken to the guy before, but he was clearly on a mission. He told me that he had inherited some money and he wanted to invest it. He went on to tell me that he had another friend “in the markets” who had a fantastic penthouse, drove a flashy car and was loaded. His friend, I was told, knew “the secret”. He explained that I also knew “the secret” and he wanted to know it too. He assu...

To continue reading this article...

Join Professional Adviser for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
  • Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
  • Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
  • Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
  • Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes

Join

 

Already a Professional Adviser member?

Login

More on Investment

Muted response as Labour names Grimsby Town FC co-owner next investment minister

Muted response as Labour names Grimsby Town FC co-owner next investment minister

After the sudden exit of Poppy Gustafsson last week

Eve Maddock-Jones
clock 08 September 2025 • 2 min read
Hargreaves Lansdown and Schroders to launch double LTAF offering

Hargreaves Lansdown and Schroders to launch double LTAF offering

From next week

Eve Maddock-Jones
clock 08 September 2025 • 2 min read
Darius McDermott: Complacency at the peak

Darius McDermott: Complacency at the peak

'Markets to hit new highs, while credit spreads are at multi-decade lows'

Darius McDermott
clock 08 September 2025 • 5 min read