[neutronicus]

It is, in fact, gambling.

However, unlike going to a casino, elected leaders are under enormous pressure to ensure positive expected value - which is precisely why "diversified retirement mutual fund things" are such a good idea for the public investor - they're basically saying "sign me up for EV, please and thank you".

Also unlike going to a casino, some stocks pay dividends and you would in principle receive a share of the proceeds (after paying creditors) if the company liquidates all its assets.