Market Emotions: The Life of a Broker on the NYSE

In a vibrant reflection of the world of finance, brokers at the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) experience a whirlwind of emotions brought on by the volatile nature of the market. This unique environment can be equated to a concert where the audience reacts intensely to every crescendo and decrescendo. The energy here is palpable as brokers immerse themselves in the market, celebrating peaks and mourning troughs. Since 2007, the presence of the press has heightened the visibility of the NYSE floor, creating a buzz that contrasts sharply with the quieter, more solitary nature of trading today, dominated by computers. Brokers, like the one sharing their story, have seen the industry evolve from tightly-knit interactions with paper orders to a more automated, digital landscape, which has diminished the spontaneous communication that once defined their roles. This broker recounts their journey, beginning as a teletype operator with no financial background, gradually being drawn into the energy of the NYSE. Despite the changes, the thrill of trading and representing customers remains, as brokers face every market shift with emotional intensity and a touch of superstition. The experience of surviving through historical financial events—including the crashes of 1987 and 2008—adds to the resilience and creativity needed to thrive in this fast-paced world.