Quote from nitro:
If it is such a good deal, why don't you become a specialist?
Members and member firms always get priviledges. But look at the requirements and the capital needed to do it.
It is like saying, "the SEC should come down on Donald Trump. I mean, look at all the buildings and casinos he can put up." Well, look at the capital investment and risk he takes.
But, yeah, in general, the more money you have, the easier it is to make more money because of the advantages and priviledges that money affords you. If it didn't, you wouldn't be chasing it in the first place.
nitro
Being a specialist is a good deal because of the rules! You answered all your own questions there dude. These guys make so much because they take it away from the public and the money they make gives them the clout to make even more. Since your signature quotes Newton I assume you are acquainted with the laws of physics and the concept of inertia. These guys make enough to buy protection from guys like Dick Grasso (there was no other reason for his insane compensation package).
As far as risk goes, it's risky crossing the street, and we all take risk in the markets. They get compensated well for their risk (which is significantly reduced by 'the rules').
Finally, if I had the money to start a specialist firm, or Trumps dough for that matter i wouldn't be spending my time fucking around posting on these boards.
Cheers
MACD
