The Rise of WallStreetBets: How Online Communities Are Reshaping Finance

Nathaniel Popper's new book explores the cultural and financial impact of retail investors on the stock market.

WallStreetBets, founded in 2012, gained prominence during the GameStop short squeeze in 2021.
The subreddit evolved from a niche community to a significant market force, challenging traditional financial institutions.
Popper traces the origins of this movement to the 2008 financial crisis and the rise of social media.
Retail investors, often driven by populist sentiments, have disrupted conventional investment strategies.
The book highlights the generational shift in how young people engage with finance, influenced by online platforms.