Individuals who engage in financial speculation lie about their activity in order to avoid the judgment that comes from preconceived or stereotypical views, because they are unwilling to disclose details of how they do it, if unsuccessful sometimes even because of feelings of shame, or, if successful, to avoid unwelcome attention.
Years back when I was a complete 'tyro' losing money 'trading', as I erroneously called it, I was talking to a person whom, unknown to me, was a famous yacht designer. Asked about what I did I cheerfully proceeded to tell him. At which he replied: "There's always room for one more". I didn't fully get his scathing remark at the time. Possibly facilitated from his dealings with the extremely wealthy, he clearly had developed an appreciation of the viewpoint that is that of the sell side of the financial industry. From that perspective retail participants are certainly the object of ridicule and contempt.
Now with strangers I use a cover story involving 'intellectual property' and 'confidential licensing agreements'; a subject I was directly involved with. It explains affluence despite no regular job, carries a positive connotation and justifies a measure of reticence.
Mountains of lies and deception everywhere.
- ras72