Yes, it is sad. We trusted the "experts", our brokers, to look out for our best interests, while, in fact, they were looking out for THEIR OWN best interests.
I prefer to be a trusting individual, but must admit I've become quite cynical now, and trust no one when it comes to MY money.
Ultimately, my losses are my own fault, I suppose. I was busy trying to be a trustworthy person pursuing my own career, and wasn't minding the shop. Another lesson in human nature learned the hard way!
Newly