Lauren Finance

Lauren Simmons, often referred to as Lauren Finance, is a name synonymous with breaking barriers and challenging the status quo on Wall Street. Her journey from a young, ambitious graduate to the youngest and only full-time female equity trader at the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) at the time is a testament to her tenacity, intelligence, and dedication.

Born and raised in Marietta, Georgia, Simmons graduated from Kennesaw State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Genetics. While her degree might seem unrelated to finance, her analytical skills and problem-solving abilities, honed through scientific study, proved invaluable in the fast-paced world of stock trading. After graduation, a chance encounter led her to explore opportunities in finance, despite having no prior experience in the field.

Undeterred by the lack of a finance background, Simmons immersed herself in learning the intricacies of the market. She studied extensively, passed the Series 19 exam (required for options traders), and relentlessly pursued opportunities. Her persistence paid off when she secured a position at Rosenblatt Securities, becoming the second African-American woman in NYSE history to have a full-time position on the trading floor.

Simmons’s presence on the NYSE floor was groundbreaking. Not only was she exceptionally young, but she was also operating in a predominantly male and white environment. This unique position gave her a platform to advocate for diversity and inclusion in the finance industry. She quickly became a vocal advocate for encouraging more women and people of color to pursue careers in finance, emphasizing the importance of creating a more equitable and representative workforce.

Beyond her trading role, Simmons leveraged her experience and visibility to become a prominent speaker, author, and entrepreneur. She shares her story at conferences and events, inspiring audiences with her resilience and determination. She’s been featured in numerous publications and media outlets, further amplifying her message of empowerment and opportunity.

Following her tenure at Rosenblatt Securities, Simmons transitioned into a more entrepreneurial path. She is currently developing projects focused on financial literacy and education, aiming to democratize access to financial knowledge for underserved communities. She believes that empowering individuals with financial literacy is crucial for building wealth and achieving financial independence. Her upcoming projects aim to provide accessible and engaging resources to help people navigate the complexities of personal finance.

Lauren Finance’s impact extends beyond her personal achievements. She represents a new generation of finance professionals who are committed to not only achieving success but also creating a more inclusive and equitable industry. Her journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring traders and entrepreneurs, demonstrating that with hard work, determination, and a commitment to breaking down barriers, anything is possible.