Welcome to my “laboratory.” By day, I work as a mechanical engineer, but after hours, I dive deep into the financial world. My posts are mostly about my market struggles, though sometimes you’ll find something completely out-of-the-box. In 2026, I temporarily stepped away from the markets to allocate capital toward housing. As a beneficiary of the post-COVID bull run, I decided to put some of those gains toward my financial education. In May 2026, I achieved my first milestone on this financial journey and became a licensed Securities Broker (KNF license no. 3967). I don’t disclose what’s currently in my portfolio or in what quantities. Most posts focus on fast market moves and things that are already history.

How did I end up in finance?

Honestly, I just didn’t know what to do with my excess cash. I didn’t want my savings to sit idle in a checking account or a low-yield deposit. Around 2020, I stumbled upon (thanks to a recommendation, I think) my first finance podcasts, YouTube videos, and books. I started buying stocks seriously in 2022, feeling it was a good time for the next 3-5 years. By 2024, I had practically zero cash and 100% of my capital in financial assets. That was also when I started opening financial reports, reading, analyzing, and making more informed investment decisions. In 2025, I read more and more, dove deep into reports, and also became fascinated by the mechanics of order execution and the liquidity of financial assets. I’ve always been interested in business structures, taxation, and entrepreneurship. When I came across the body of knowledge required for the broker exam, I immediately knew it was tailored for me at that moment. Studying was pure joy, and at the first opportunity, I passed the exam.

What’s next?

2026 is a year of milestones — my first apartment, the broker exam. Right now, I’m out of the market, watching and waiting for opportunities because they’re always there — we just don’t always see them. I’m documenting my observations here. If space and capital allow for further growth in the future, maybe an international exam like the CFA or CIIA.

Life beyond finance

A mechanical engineer from birth. My alma mater is the beloved Poznań University of Technology. Over 10 years of solid experience in industry. Working in this field is a pleasure, though I’m far from being a workaholic. Over the years, I’ve worked on various projects — the one I’m most proud of is the TAWA electric scooter, built in my garage from Polish steel and Chinese electronics. A bit of a geek — I sometimes code, mostly with the help of AI. I love open-source solutions and have been using Ubuntu on my laptop for 15 years. I help my wife grow her ceramic business. I enjoy growing vegetables at our ROD garden and hiking in the mountains. As for sports, currently just the gym — used to play tennis.

Links & highlights

  • Printable HTML CV CV
  • Mechanical portfolio — password-protected, available upon request portfolio
  • The story of the TAWA electric scooter TAWA
  • The best ceramics in the world — my wife’s website Domekceramik

Legal disclaimer

The author holds an investment advisory license. However, all content published on this site is for general informational and educational purposes only. Published materials do not constitute personalized investment advice or recommendations under applicable law, as they do not take into account any individual’s financial situation, investment objectives, or risk profile. All investment decisions are made at the reader’s own risk. The author makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the materials but accepts no liability for decisions made based on them.