What is an equity trader?

Question

plz dont say, someone who trades equity because i dont know what that is either :)

Answer 1

An equity trader is one who buys and sells common or preferred stocks either for their own account or for a firm with the intention of making profits.

Banks and mutual funds also employ equity traders but they are restricted as to what and when they can buy and/or sell.

Traders are usually paid a salary but their primary source of income is in their participation of any trading profits (and losses) that they generate.

Yes traders do make money since a good trader generates profits in both good and bad markets.  Traders don't really care if the market is going up or down, as long as there is volume in a market a trader can and will make money

Answer 2

For a medium to large sized firm, yes, and equity trader can make a lot of money. However, it depends. If you are a highly leveraged proprietary trader trading your own money you live and die by your trades. However, if you are involved in trading for a mutual insurance companiy's portfolio you will likely get a solid base salary plus incentive based bonuses.  

Answer 3

"equities" are shares of stock. When you buy a stock, you "own" part of the company. You share in the gains or losses through stock appreciation (price increasing). An Equity trader simply deals in stocks.