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Alternative Market Briefing

Honoring the Legacy of Bucky Isaacson

Tuesday, January 07, 2025

Matthias Knab, Opalesque for New Managers:

Yesterday I announced with a heavy heart that Robert "Bucky" Isaacson, a true pioneer in the world of financial innovation and a cornerstone of the Managed Futures Industry has passed away on Jan 5th.

Back in the very early days - 1969 - he helped to develop one of the first computerized trading systems and partnered with Keith Campbell and Chet Conrad in starting one of the first commodity funds. He has been involved in the managed futures industry ever since, foremost in the US and Asia.

Bucky was more than a leader - he was a mentor, a connector, a champion of good will and selflessness. Everyone who knew Bucky can share stories how he always went out of his way to support them or others.

Bucky was a former member of the Board of Directors of the National Futures Association and the National Introducing Brokers Association. Together with Frank Pusateri, he created the CTA EXPO / Emerging Manager Forum, running many events designed to help smaller and emerging hedge funds and commodity trading advisors.

For so many of us, Bucky wasn't just someone we knew - he was a true friend, someone we learned from, admired, and loved. His wit, wisdom, warmth and sincere caring left an indelible mark on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

While the loss is immeasurable, so are the memories he leaves behind. Let's continue to carry his spirit forward-by supporting and truly caring for one another.

Rest in peace, Bucky. You will be deeply missed, but your impact will live on.

"FOBs" - Friends of Bucky are invited to share a memory or express your thoughts and feelings here or here.

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