Why Do Many Traders Fold Cash in the Left Pocket? A Lesson from Jesse Livermore

Ever wondered why many old-school traders keep folded cash in their left pocket?

It goes back to a story from one of the greatest traders in history—Jesse Livermore. One day, he gave each of his sons a $10 bill and said:

Fold it carefully, put it in your left front pocket, and never spend it.

Why the left pocket? Livermore had two reasons. First, it was a psychological anchor. That folded bill was a constant, physical reminder of the value of money—and how hard it is to keep it. It was about discipline, self-control, and protecting your capital.

Second, Livermore pointed out something clever: most pickpockets are right-handed and tend to target right-side or back pockets. So, the left front pocket was safer.

In other words, Livermore taught his sons to protect their money—not just from the market, but from the world.

And maybe that’s why, even today, some of us still carry a folded bill in our left pocket.

Just in case.

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