At 39 years old, Gary Stevenson has transitioned from a successful financial trader to a prominent economic activist, with an estimated net worth of approximately $12 million. His journey from a modest upbringing in Ilford, East London, to becoming a millionaire trader at Citibank, and now a vocal advocate against economic inequality, highlights a career marked by both financial success and a commitment to societal change.
How Did Gary Stevenson’s Early Life Influence His Career?
Born in 1986 in Ilford, East London, Stevenson was raised in a working-class family. Despite facing challenges, including expulsion from Ilford County High School at 16, he demonstrated resilience by excelling academically at Valentines High School, achieving top grades in his A-Levels. This academic success led him to the London School of Economics, where he earned a degree in economics and mathematics. His early experiences with financial hardship instilled in him a deep understanding of economic disparities, shaping his future career choices.
What Led Stevenson to a Career in Financial Trading?
Stevenson’s analytical prowess caught the attention of Citibank, where he began his career as a financial trader in 2008 at the age of 21. His ability to predict market trends, particularly during the global financial crisis, allowed him to profit by betting on increasing economic inequality and sustained low interest rates. By 2011, he was recognized as one of Citibank’s most profitable traders, amassing significant personal wealth. However, the intense pressure and ethical dilemmas associated with profiting from economic downturns led him to reevaluate his career path.
Why Did Stevenson Transition from Trading to Activism?
Despite financial success, Stevenson grappled with the moral implications of his work, leading to dissatisfaction and mental health challenges. In 2014, at the age of 27, he retired from trading to pursue an MPhil in Economics at the University of Oxford. This academic pursuit provided him with a platform to critically analyze economic systems and advocate for change. Motivated by a desire to address the systemic issues he once profited from, Stevenson shifted his focus to economic activism, aiming to educate the public and influence policy.
How Has Stevenson Contributed to Public Discourse on Economic Inequality?
In 2020, Stevenson launched the YouTube channel “GarysEconomics,” where he simplifies complex economic concepts and discusses the impacts of wealth disparity. By February 2025, his channel had garnered over 714,000 subscribers and 37.7 million views, reflecting a growing public interest in economic issues. His approachable style and firsthand experience in the financial sector have made him a credible voice in discussions on economic reform. Additionally, Stevenson has contributed to various media outlets, including The Guardian and BBC, offering insights into economic inequality and potential solutions.
What Are the Key Themes of Stevenson’s Memoir, “The Trading Game”?
In 2024, Stevenson published “The Trading Game,” a memoir detailing his experiences in the finance industry. The book provides an insider’s perspective on the high-stakes world of financial trading, the ethical conflicts faced by traders, and the personal toll of such a career. It also delves into his decision to leave the industry and advocate for economic justice. The memoir received critical acclaim, reaching the number one spot on the Sunday Times bestseller list and sparking discussions about the morality of financial systems and the individuals who operate within them.
How Does Stevenson Propose Addressing Economic Inequality?
Stevenson advocates for systemic changes to address economic inequality, including the implementation of wealth taxes and policies aimed at redistributing wealth more equitably. He emphasizes the need for transparency in financial systems and greater accountability for those in positions of economic power. Through his activism and public engagements, Stevenson encourages informed public discourse and policy reforms that prioritize the well-being of the broader population over the interests of a wealthy minority.
Gary Stevenson’s evolution from a City trader to an influential economic activist underscores the potential for individuals to leverage personal experiences for broader societal impact. His efforts continue to inspire discussions on economic justice and the role of financial systems in shaping equitable societies.
