stockmarket is a gamble

Was having a chat with a mate who asked how are my shares going?


Me: good, last 6 months have done well
Mate: I cant believe you gamble your money like that and expect it to grow.. want to hope your horse comes in.
Me: You are a flippin turkey gobbler who has no idea!

Now people tell me this why does the general public perceive share traders/investors to be gamblers i find this offensive and completely off, enlighten me.

Night all