Far too easy to judge isn't it Chrome Prince. We all do it unfortunately, some to a lesser degree than others ..... great posts.

As to the difference between stock market trader, sports handicapper and professional horse punter

I would categorically say the SAFEST IN ORDER;

Pro Horse Punter
Sports Handicapper
Stock Market Trader

....... my reason for having the stock market trader at the bottom of the list is that the enormous sums of money involved bring about the most elaborate ways of thieving money and involve the "smartest" minds in the world.

The difference is simply the amount of money involved and horse racing doesn't start Global WARS !!! Stock markets do !!!!! Stock market manipulation, oil shortages - WARS ...... Did you know that ALL THE GOLD EVER MINED IN HISTORY WOULD FIT IN AN AVERAGE 3 BEDROOM HOUSE !!!!!