330 · Steve Quirk - From Chicago Pit Trader to Robinhood Exec
About this episode
Steve Quirk discusses his journey from Chicago pit trader to Chief Brokerage Officer at Robinhood, sharing insights on retail investing and market technology.
Steve Quirk began his career in 1987 on the fast-paced trading floors of Chicago, surviving the historic market crash that wiped out $1.7 trillion worldwide.From navigating open-outcry pits where a trader's word was their bond, Steve transitioned into market technology, helping build landmark tools at thinkorswim and leading trading strategy initiatives at TD Ameritrade. Today, as Chief Brokerage Officer at Robinhood, he sits at the intersection of retail investing, market structure, and financial innovation, shaping products for millions of retail investors.In this conversation, Steve shares key lessons from decades in the markets, the evolution of retail trading technology, and how removing friction like the Pattern Day Trader rule is unlocking the next era of retail investing. In this episode, we explore:• Steve’s early days in the Chicago trading pits in 1987• Why decisive decision-making and accepting being wrong 50% of the time is crucial• The transition from floor trading to building technology at thinkorswim• How Robinhood levels the playing field for retail investors and opens up global access• Managing risks: framing the absolute worst-case scenario before taking a…
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