IMO What really matters is the % made, not the total amount. Investor A made $5,000 profits, and B $10,000 in 2007. However A started with $10,000, and B with a couple million. A is a much better investor than B.
Total amount is the most important for an individual trader. Investor A made 100% on a $50,000 account. Investor B made 50% on a $500,000 account. Which one would you rather be? Percentage return is only important after you have a sizable account to trade.