Tony Saliba. He is the number one reason that I decided to become a trader. I was an intern for him in 95 during my MBA. His ironclad discipline and hardworking style impressed me quite a bit. To my knowledge he is still the best options trader around..
From what I've heard, I'm not sure he adhered to that philosophy in the later years, but trading less and working harder was definitely stressed in the interview.
My favorites are: John Bender Tony Saliba Mark D Cook I also really liked the Michael Marcus interview. He seemed do go through some really tough times and finally bounced back to becoming a success. really admirable.
My favorite quotes from New Market Wizards are from Stanley Druckenmillers interview: Soros came into my office and we talked about the trade. "How big a position do you have?" he asked. "One billion dollars," I answered. "You call that a position?" ================================= "It takes courage to be a pig."
I have personally met a few of the wizards in my trading life ... and I am sorry to report I am still a wizards apprentice lacking the crystal ball or magic touch to become a wizard by the way there is another book called stock market wizards ... by the same author ....
You know folks, this preoccupation with "market wizards" does you no good, except as you learn to identify the characteristics that they all seem to have in common. I talk with several of these folks on a pretty regular basis. What I have come to notice about them is the following: 1. They are independent thinkers 2. In any situation, they remain self-possessed and able to think clearly about their options. 3. They know how to research 4. When they see an opportunity based on their research, they believe it, and they act decisively. 5. When they are wrong, they change gears promptly. They do not wait for the sky to fall on them. 6. They prepare for the unexpected. Bottom line, is these are disciplined people who have talent. They work hard and they don't screw up. Theres really nothing new under the sun is there. Enough of this already, Good luck, Lefty