Ep 5. To Catch a Trader

To Catch a Trader is a captivating episode from season 32 of Frontline that focuses on the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis. This episode specifically looks into the investigation into insider trading at SAC Capital, one of the biggest hedge funds in the world.

The episode begins with an introduction to the founder of SAC Capital, Steve Cohen, who is said to be one of the richest men in the world. However, the episode quickly reveals that Cohen's wealth may be linked to illegal activities. As the investigation into SAC Capital unfolds, the audience is introduced to a group of people who are working tirelessly to bring Cohen and his associates to justice.

The episode highlights the work of the FBI and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), who are working together to build a case against SAC Capital. Through interviews with former FBI agents and SEC officials, the audience is given insight into the complexities of financial crime investigations. We learn about the legal hurdles that must be overcome, as well as the challenges of collecting evidence and building a case against powerful individuals and institutions.

To Catch a Trader also features interviews with former SAC Capital employees who have turned whistle-blowers, shedding light on the company's culture of greed and corruption. These employees reveal the tactics used by SAC Capital to gain an edge on Wall Street, including accessing information that was not available to the public. These revelations serve to highlight the immense power that hedge funds have, and the lengths that some will go to in order to maintain that power.

The episode is thought-provoking and engaging, inviting the audience to consider the ramifications of unchecked financial power. It raises important questions about the ethical responsibilities of those who work in finance, and the consequences of ignoring those responsibilities. Through its detailed exploration of the SAC Capital scandal, To Catch a Trader encourages viewers to think critically about the role of financial institutions in society and the need for greater accountability and transparency.

Overall, To Catch a Trader is a must-watch episode for anyone interested in the 2008 financial crisis and its aftermath. It offers a unique perspective on the scandal through the eyes of those who worked to uncover the truth, and provides important insights into the workings of the financial world. The episode's engaging storytelling and thorough reporting make it a standout installment in Frontline's impressive 32-season run.