TITLE : SECRETS OF THE STREET: THE DARK SIDE OF MAKING MONEY.

PREFACE

A book that focused on insider trading, by its very essence, can't identify many of the characters involved, nor can it reveal very precise descriptions of events or situations that could uncover my sources. So the names of most of the people as well as companies have been disguised through the use of pseudonyms. In some cases, I had to alter the description of a character's background to honor my promise of confidentiality to my sources. I did similar profile alterations on some of the companies and stocks men tioned. Most of the disguised players in this book are deep insiders who have much to hide and too much to lose if their real identities are revealed. But this book is about real people and real events. While I have altered many names of the characters and their companies in this book, the events did take place and are in fact very accurate representations of what goes on on Wall Street every day of the week.

As a practical matter, I have identified all pseudonyms of people and companies by quotation marks when they are first referenced. All other names not enclosed by quotes are therefore of the actual people or companies.

I'm deeply grateful to a number of personal friends, professional supporters, and otherwise invaluable sources who have made it possible for me to organize and write this book.

I would like to make particular mention of my editor and publisher, Philip Ruwpel, and Laura Friedman, also at McGraw Hill, for their expert advice, professional assistance, and guidance. And special thanks to my research associates, Karla Strom and Jamie Marcial.

Of those who encouraged me to write this book, I am especially indebted to my wife, Kristi Marcial, who has been most inspiring and among the most enthusiastic and sup portive of this project.

GENE G. MARCLL New York City