Epsilon Theory Podcast The Intentional Investor #30: Andrew Cohen
May 28, 2025
Andrew Cohen, a former market maker at Bernie Madoff's firm and now a professor at Old Dominion University, shares his compelling journey from scandal to success. He discusses the importance of resilience and how personal purpose can redefine investing. Cohen reflects on his Bronx upbringing and career path that led him from Goldman Sachs to academia. He also narrates memorable moments in NCAA basketball and the unexpected turns that shaped his life, emphasizing the blend of chance and strategy in both finance and personal decisions.
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Early Love for Strategic Games
- Andrew loved Monopoly and chess growing up, excelling in strategic games.
- These interests foreshadowed his natural inclination for game theory and trading strategy.
Prioritize Knowledge Over Grades
- Focus on learning and gaining knowledge in school rather than chasing grades.
- Deep learning naturally leads to good grades and meaningful understanding.
Basketball Futures Market Maker
- Andrew became a market maker in NCAA basketball and football futures while managing FX operations at Goldman Sachs.
- His skill made him money but also led to animosity and eventual career limitations.
