.png)
What’s up, everyone? Today, I’m diving into a topic that’s been bothering me for a while: the “finance bro” culture. As someone deeply entrenched in the fund world, I feel it’s time to address this issue head-on and hopefully, contribute to changing the narrative around it.
What is “Finance Bro” Culture?
When I say “finance bro,” you probably already have a certain image in your head. I’m talking about the super cocky, rich guys who seem to be synonymous with Wall Street. These are the types who flaunt their wealth with flashy Ferraris, expensive suits, and a never-ending stream of Instagram posts showing off their luxurious lifestyle. They’re often depicted as arrogant, superficial, and even unethical, engaging in excessive partying and drug use.
But here’s the thing—this image, while prevalent in pop culture, doesn’t represent the reality of most people working in finance, especially those who manage funds.
The Reality of the Finance World
It’s unfortunate that the loudest, most obnoxious figures often shape public perception. Yes, there are finance majors in universities who embody the “finance bro” stereotype, strutting around with a sense of superiority. This has led many to believe that in order to be a successful fund manager, you need to be arrogant, obsessed with money, and, frankly, a jerk.
But the truth is, the real world of fund management is far different. In fact, I know so many fund managers who are the exact opposite—humble, giving, and even frugal. Take Warren Buffett and Charlie Munger, for instance. These legends of finance are known not just for their incredible success, but for their modest lifestyles and philanthropic efforts.
In my experience, most of the successful people I’ve met in the alternative asset space are grounded, kind, and focused on serving their investors and teams. They’re not the flashy, egotistical types you might see in a movie or TV show. Instead, they’re people who understand the gravity of managing other people’s money and approach their work with a sense of duty and responsibility.
Is the Stigma True?
So, is the “finance bro” stereotype based in reality? Unfortunately, in some cases, yes. There are those on Wall Street who fit the bill perfectly. But here’s the thing—those who are in it for the wrong reasons, who are driven by ego rather than a genuine desire to succeed and help others, often burn out. They might experience short-term success, but they don’t have the staying power to make it in the long run.
On the other hand, those who recognize their own flaws, work to improve themselves, and genuinely care about their investors and colleagues are the ones who make it to the top. Humility, in my view, is a key ingredient for long-term success in this industry.
The Importance of Humility in Fund Management
As a fund manager, your primary responsibility is fiduciary—you are entrusted with managing your investors’ money. This means that your role is to serve them and your team, not the other way around.
A few years ago, I had a conversation with an investor who was interested in my fund. He asked me, “What car do you drive?” When I told him I drove a Subaru, he said, “That’s perfect; you’re a good fund manager.”
He explained further, “If you were driving a BMW or a Mercedes, I would assume that you were a poor money manager yourself and couldn’t take care of my money if you couldn’t take care of yours. So yes, I’d like to write you a check.”
That interaction was his form of due diligence—he wanted to see that I wasn’t someone who was frivolous with money, which gave him confidence that I’d manage his investment responsibly.
Remember, money amplifies who you are. Whether you have a lot of it or just enough, you can still choose to be a kind, charitable person. Wealth doesn’t have to change you; it can simply give you more opportunities to do good in the world.
Conclusion
So, there you have it—that’s why I dislike the “finance bro” culture. It perpetuates the myth that to be a successful fund manager, or an affluent person in general, you have to be a jerk. But the truth is, it’s entirely up to you how you choose to treat others. Success in finance—or any field—doesn’t require arrogance or a lack of empathy. In fact, the most successful people I know are those who stay humble, focused, and committed to serving others.
That’s it for today’s rant. I hope this gives you a different perspective on what it really takes to succeed in the finance world.
If you want to read more, check out the Fund Launch Blog! Or, if you're ready to launch an investment fund, visit Fund Launch for more resources!
Thanks for reading!
Want to get direct guidance for your fund? Schedule a time with my Fund Advisors!
DISCLAIMER: This content is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not to be taken as tax, financial, or legal advice. You should always consult a legal professional before taking action. Furthermore, this is not a recommendation to buy or sell any security. The content is solely just the opinion of the authors.
