Steven M. Sears is a distinguished financial journalist, author, and investment strategist with over two decades of experience in the financial markets. As a senior editor and columnist for Barron's since 2006, Sears authors the widely followed "Striking Price" column, providing investors with actionable insights and forward guidance. He is credited by the Chicago Board Options Exchange (Cboe) for naming the VIX the "fear gauge" and contributing to the growth of the global volatility market.

Sears' expertise extends beyond journalism. He is the president, chief operating officer, and co-founder of Options Solutions, an investment firm specializing in conservative options strategies. His background includes executive roles that modernized the U.S. options market and introduced electronic trading.

In 2012, Sears published "The Indomitable Investor: Why A Few Succeed In The Stock Market When Everyone Else Fails," a book that deconstructs the stock market from an insider's perspective. The book, which has been translated into Chinese, challenges readers to think about the market in radically different ways, focusing on improving returns and avoiding losses.

Sears is a frequent speaker at domestic and international conferences sponsored by banks, brokerage firms, exchanges, and industry groups. His insights have made him a sought-after commentator on financial markets, with appearances on various business and marketing podcasts.