Nicole Petallides Profile

Ilena Ryan profiles FBN’s Nicole Petallides in the February issue of The Boulevard. (via J$)

Able to thrive in a high-pressure environment, Petallides has been working inside the NYSE for more than 10 years and has spent that time establishing connections and learning when to follow the story. “I’ll be standing here and I’ll hear, ‘Nicole, I’m hearing this…’ and throughout the day they’re handing me papers. It’s one thing to sit behind a desk in an office; it’s another to sit here on the trading floor.” The connections she’s made include high-profile investors who are constantly on the phone with Europe, Japan, and other global markets. She says she loves the ever-changing environment, and that she is constantly learning.

Recently, however, Petallides has been learning the not-so-positive aspects of the economy. Though it’s been difficult as a business reporter, Petallides knows how to handle it, and maintains a positive attitude while sympathizing with her viewers and the general consumer population. While she says it’s always easier to report good news than bad news, “I tread carefully and I try to be empathetic because as a business reporter, everyone tells me their stories of loss and it really is tough. I mean, I sometimes can’t sleep at night.”

In her efforts to remain optimistic and recognize the resilience of the market, Petallides understands consumer resentment, but she encourages patience and says that the second half of 2009 will probably be when the public starts to see improvements. But she also sees this time as an opportunity. “Dare to take a chance now. There are great buying opportunities. Dip your toe into the market – not your whole foot – your toe. Do your research. I think [that] long term, if you’re buying at these levels, you won’t go wrong,” she advises.