That was 6 years ago and it was indeed tough back then, we were rewriting a huge trading system from Java -> C++ while trying to keep our edge. However, we succeeded and things have changed considerably since. We also have a dev working in Singapore now which makes support significantly better.
We were at least honest in the interview process regarding hours, there are companies where you would only find that out after starting. There were people who were willing to go through that pain and I think they would agree they were well rewarded but I understand some people want different things from their careers.
Indeed, I was very grateful for the honesty, because the roles otherwise seemed very exciting.
However, the moment someone would've announced that this was the reality of the situation I'd have walked out the door, because that is NOT normal under any circumstance.
We were at least honest in the interview process regarding hours, there are companies where you would only find that out after starting. There were people who were willing to go through that pain and I think they would agree they were well rewarded but I understand some people want different things from their careers.