Michael Dever

Michael Dever is an American trader, businessman, and author known for his work in systematic trading and investment strategies. He is the founder and CEO of Brandywine Asset Management and gained prominence for developing the "Return Driver" investment approach. Dever authored "Jackass Investing: Don't Do It. Profit From It," published in 2011, which challenges conventional investment wisdom and presents alternative perspectives on portfolio management. His book introduces the concept of "Return Drivers" - the fundamental building blocks that drive price movements across various markets. Having started trading in 1979, Dever has established multiple trading and technology companies throughout his career. He graduated from West Chester University and has built a reputation for developing systematic, research-driven investment methodologies.

Readers view Michael Dever's "Jackass Investing" as a contrarian take on traditional investment advice. The book draws praise from professional traders and skeptical investors. Readers appreciated: - Clear explanations of return drivers and price movements - Data-backed challenges to common investment myths - Practical examples and actionable strategies - Free online supplementary materials - Technical concepts explained in accessible language Common criticisms: - Marketing tone throughout the book - Repetitive content in later chapters - Limited depth on implementation details - Self-promotion of author's investment firm Ratings across platforms: Amazon: 4.0/5 (82 reviews) Goodreads: 3.8/5 (156 ratings) Notable reader comment: "Dever effectively dismantles conventional wisdom but could have provided more specific guidance on building portfolios." - Amazon reviewer Another reader noted: "The return driver concept is eye-opening, though the constant marketing pitch detracts from the message." - Goodreads reviewer

Jackass Investing: Don't Do It. Profit From It. (2011) A technical analysis of investment strategies that examines conventional market wisdom and presents an alternative framework based on "Return Drivers" methodology for portfolio management across different market environments.

Jack Schwager He authored "Market Wizards" series interviewing successful traders about their methods and philosophies. His work provides practical insights into trading psychology and risk management through direct conversations with market professionals.

Nassim Nicholas Taleb His books examine randomness, probability, and risk in financial markets through a mathematical and philosophical lens. He focuses on extreme events and their impact on markets, similar to Dever's emphasis on understanding fundamental drivers of price movements.

Robert Carver He writes about systematic trading and portfolio management based on his experience as a trader at AHL. His work covers practical aspects of building trading systems and implementing quantitative strategies.

Ernest Chan He writes about algorithmic trading strategies and quantitative methods in financial markets. His books focus on statistical arbitrage and systematic trading approaches backed by empirical research.

Victor Niederhoffer He combines statistical analysis with practical trading experience in his writing about markets and speculation. His work examines market behavior through multiple disciplines, including economics and scientific methods.