Diamond hands
Meaning
The steadfast resolve to hold onto a highly volatile or risky financial asset, even when facing significant losses or market pressures, in anticipation of a future increase in value.
Origin
The term "diamond hands" exploded into popular consciousness from the Reddit community r/WallStreetBets, particularly during the GameStop stock frenzy of early 2021. It was coined to describe investors who steadfastly refused to sell their shares, even as prices plummeted or faced intense short-selling pressure, likening their unyielding grip on assets to the unbreakable hardness of diamonds. This phrase became a badge of honor among retail investors, symbolizing courage, conviction, and a shared commitment to resisting institutional financial forces. Its stark opposite, "paper hands," represented those who sold quickly out of fear, making "diamond hands" a defiant rallying cry for collective endurance in volatile markets.
Examples
- Despite the stock market crash, she had diamond hands and refused to sell her shares, confident in the company's long-term potential.
- He advised his friends to have diamond hands during the crypto dip, reminding them of the project's strong fundamentals.