At Daniels Trading, we focus on building trusting relationships with our clients. We believe one of the best ways for you to establish trust with your broker is to learn more about him or her! In our “Get to Know Your Broker” series, we will provide you with insight into the lives of our brokers, from their backgrounds and career paths in trading to their personal favorites and hobbies.
Introducing Drew Rathgeber
Why did you become a futures & options broker?
I started my career in 2003 working at one of the largest physical precious metal bullion dealers in North America, and I began my apprenticeship into the commodities world there. I knew the precious metals sector would be a ‘hot’ market for some time, and it was. In knowing this, I wanted to learn more about the precious metals markets from the inside out, so I advanced my career into the professional side of commodity futures.
What are your favorite markets?
I have traded almost all of the futures markets offered. Unsurprisingly, I would have to say the precious metals sector. It’s what I have the most experience trading. I just find the precious metals sector very interesting, and I enjoy reacting to the general public’s perception of this market. Over the years, I have definitely noticed that it attracts a certain personality type, and it’s these people I enjoy helping and working with.
Describe the dynamic of broker-client relations?
I’ve created a number of great broker-client relationships over the years, and I would almost consider them personal friends. I love that we can closely work together to help achieve their financial goals, and historically they’ve listened carefully to my inputs and the message I’m trying to convey. It’s the stage of a relationship where we can easily collaborate and engage our true expectations.
What is the most under-utilized brokerage service?
I think the most under-utilized brokerage service is the broker. Customers should realize that brokers see a lot, and have probably experienced about every imaginable market condition. We are in a new era of trading. This ‘Do-It-Yourself’ mentality, in conjunction with the ease of electronic trading has dynamically changed how people research, trade, and approach the markets. However, a good broker can be priceless, in my opinion, especially because of the leveraged risks of futures.
What is the key to being a good broker?
Transparency, honesty, and integrity are our core principals here at Daniels Trading. It is these core beliefs that makes us different in the industry!
What do you like the most about your job?
I really like learning about human behavior, how the general public perceives the markets and how they work within the human psyche. It’s fascinating to see how the internet has changed the way people invest and how they make decisions in this new era of information. I also really enjoy the relationships I’ve built throughout the years. By capitalizing on my work experience with them, I can figure out their actual intent and use my professional training to help them achieve their goals.
What are your hobbies or what do you do on your leisure time?
I’m an avid waterman. When I lived near the ocean I mostly surfed. However, I’ve since taken up United States Master Swimming, which led me to open water long distance swimming. Just in the last year alone I’ve competed three 5K’s, two 1 milers, and one 2 miler. I even placed 1st in the 2 miler event held at Chris Greene Lake this past summer. Swimming is not for the faint of heart, but it builds character and takes perseverance, like trading the commodity futures markets.
Describe your average day.
My average day starts with a review of all of my clients’ equity runs and positions, making sure their trades are done properly. Then I review the markets, and again review all of my clients’ positions and look for any possible risk issues. Then I typically catch up on emails. During the mid-day, I spend time speaking with my clients and learning as much as I can from them and about them. At the end of day, I head off to the pool for a 1hr workout-swim averaging almost 2 miles, then family time, and finally, I head to bed typically by 9pm.
What is your favorite vacation spot?
Right now I’d have to say going to the beach in Outer Banks, NC with my wife and kids. Again, I’m a big water person, so to be at or near the ocean is where I personally find the most enjoyment. Of course being able to surf doesn’t hurt; it’s something I plan on passing down to my children once they grow up. In the winter months, I really enjoy the mountains or anything outdoors with recreational activities like snowboarding or hiking!
Can you change a tire?
Yes, I can change a tire. I’m fairly handy. In fact, I helped build a deck from scratch last weekend with a friend.
Do you prefer Chicago style or New York style pizza?
No brainer, Chicago!
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Futures Basics & Essentials: The Beginners Guide to Trading Gold Futures
Download this informative guide designed to help you understand gold futures, and how you can trade these precious metal instruments! This eBook was created for those who seek to understand where the professionals trade precious metals, how futures contracts work, and details of the margins and market hours.
Futures Basics & Essentials: The Beginners Guide to Trading Silver Futures
Download this informative guide designed to help you understand silver futures, and how you can trade these precious metal instruments! This eBook was created for those who seek to understand where the professionals trade precious metals, how futures contracts work, and details of the margins and market hours.
Risk Disclosure
This material is conveyed as a solicitation for entering into a derivatives transaction.
This material has been prepared by a Daniels Trading broker who provides research market commentary and trade recommendations as part of his or her solicitation for accounts and solicitation for trades; however, Daniels Trading does not maintain a research department as defined in CFTC Rule 1.71. Daniels Trading, its principals, brokers and employees may trade in derivatives for their own accounts or for the accounts of others. Due to various factors (such as risk tolerance, margin requirements, trading objectives, short term vs. long term strategies, technical vs. fundamental market analysis, and other factors) such trading may result in the initiation or liquidation of positions that are different from or contrary to the opinions and recommendations contained therein.
Past performance is not necessarily indicative of future performance. The risk of loss in trading futures contracts or commodity options can be substantial, and therefore investors should understand the risks involved in taking leveraged positions and must assume responsibility for the risks associated with such investments and for their results.
You should carefully consider whether such trading is suitable for you in light of your circumstances and financial resources. You should read the "risk disclosure" webpage accessed at www.DanielsTrading.com at the bottom of the homepage. Daniels Trading is not affiliated with nor does it endorse any trading system, newsletter or other similar service. Daniels Trading does not guarantee or verify any performance claims made by such systems or service.