Thanks for the information.  Lots of data to think with.  My concept of a perfect exchange would be, in order of my priorities:

1.  Has an insured fiat wallet system that is not tied into the fluctuations of Bitcoin.
2.  Has a good reputation as far as safety.
3.  Has a large choice of coins to trade.

I have had good experiences with Poloniex.  They have a large choice of coins to trade and all my transactions have been smooth.  But they don't have fiat wallet.
I like Coinbase as far as fiat wallet but they only have 3 coins to purchase with only buy/sell options...no normal trading platform with stop/loss, etc.

Anybody have recommendations of an exchange that could more closely fit my priorities?

BTW...my funds are not tied to illegal activities or gambling.  I plan on paying my fair share of taxes for any profits I make...I like to be able to sleep at night.

Mazzy