I have been in the financial services industry for 15 years as a broker, wholesaler and as a director of research for insurance products where I commented on current events and have written studies. I am less active on the trading front than I used to be and primarily buy ETFs and mutual funds, and like to trade currencies.

While I hold extensive knowledge on the markets, I have devoted much of my last few years to the variable annuity industry. These products mix the best of both worlds, investments with guarantees, and I try to help individuals understand how the products work at http://www.annuityiq.com.

I have seen it all in the industry, from the good to the bad, and never hold back what I really think is happening. You will find my honesty refreshing and entertaining. I will always admit it if I make a mistake and have thick skin, so feel free to criticize me because I do not know everything, but love to learn.

My user name is my middle name, I use it because I like it and I do consulting work where it makes sense for me to use an alias versus my full name - hey, we all have to make a living, right? Don't get your hopes up for inside info, I work with insurers on the product development side.

I strongly advise any reader to make sure they do their own research or consult a financial advisor before investing in anything.