Samuel Jeake diversified his economic activities due to various risks involved in early modern trade. These risks included religious persecution that could result in confiscated goods, complex credit networks where maintaining a good reputation was key, fluctuating prices of goods due to outdated information, and wars disrupting continental trade. To mitigate these risks, Jeake engaged in multiple ventures like bottomry loans, exchange dealings, and acting as a scrivener in addition to trade. This diversification was necessary to offset hazards and maximize profits in the uncertain 17th century economy.