The Folly of Taunting on StockTwits

I have watched the StockTwits streams closely for a long time and for the most part the behavior of our members is exemplary.

In my opinion, there is no wall between real world communites and online communites rather online communites are a convenient and valuable extension of the real world, a part of it, which allows people to connect and share ideas more easily (a philosophical post for another day).

From time to time though, I do observe people gloating and mocking others for their mistakes or for their mannerisms.

Stuff like: “Where are all you $NFLX bulls now. Got awfully quiet.  Yeah, I thought so.”

or: “Hey double dippers, bite this. $$”

We delete these messages as we view them as disruptive to constructive market focused discourse.

I have a couple other observations as well.

1. The taunt or flame says more about the character of the poster than it does anything else. Likely, he is frustrated with some other relationship set in his life and is redirecting it towards someone less immediate.  Not so flattering.

2. It is just noise and adds nothing of value to the stream.  I have never seen anyone make money from taunting.

For the reasons stated above, if you are a guilty party, please refrain.