Teaching Financial Literacy to Teens: A Personal Journey

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When I was growing up in India, discussions about money were often peaceful and limited to adults. There was no concept of teaching kids about money. Observing silently, I picked up on financial habits, some good, others not so much. Fast forward to today, living in the US with my beloved wife, Puja, and our two treasures, Nicki and Vivaan, I’ve come to understand the profound importance of financial education. A Wake-Up Call: When Nicki Wanted That Designer Dress Only recently, Nicki, with her ever-enthusiastic spirit, approached me with twinkling eyes, brandishing an image of a designer dress she was … Read more

Top 5 Reasons You (Tech Professional) Can’t Retire Early

five reasons you cant retire early

You’re a tech genius living in the dynamic intersection of reality and virtual realms. Every keystroke you make translates into a symphony of ones and zeros, creating solutions the world never knew it needed. As the calendar pages flip, a substantial paycheck, a tangible testament to your skills and dedication, routinely lands in your bank account. Surrounded by the latest gadgets and enjoying the occasional indulgence of fine dining or exotic vacations, life has laid a red carpet just for you. The zenith of success, right? But as dusk gradually paints the sky each evening and you take a moment … Read more

What is the Strategy to Withdraw From Mutual Funds?

retirement withdrawl strategies

Mutual funds have found a comfortable home in the portfolios of many Indian investors, thanks to the easy entry through Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs). Yet, while entry is important, a strategic exit is where the real game is played. Several of my readers have asked this question – When should I withdraw from my SIP / Mutual Funds? So, let’s explore the nuances of strategically exiting mutual funds. Starting SIP with Clear Objectives The journey of mutual funds starts with setting clear objectives: Remember, SIPs and mutual funds are instruments that work best when you have clarity about why you’re … Read more

Keeping Up With the Joneses: How to Avoid Falling Into the Trap of Lifestyle Creep

lifestyle creep

Climbing the ladder of success shouldn’t mean spiraling into the trap of lifestyle inflation. As your income grows, it’s tempting to match it with more luxurious living. But are these indulgences clouding your financial health? This article uncovers the deceptive allure of ‘Keeping Up with the Joneses’, revealing powerful strategies to live comfortably today while securing your wealth for tomorrow. Dive in to learn how to balance joy in the present with a prosperous future, mastering your money instead of letting it master you.

Rich vs Wealthy: Key Differences & Achieving True Wealth

Rich vs Wealthy

In the intricate world of personal finance, ‘rich’ and ‘wealthy’ often blur into one synonymous term. However, these seemingly similar words paint vastly different financial scenarios. Today, we embark on a fascinating exploration of these terms, unraveling their unique meanings, and understanding their profound implications on your financial journey. Let’s step into this enlightening discourse, shall we? What Does It Mean to Be Rich? To be ‘rich’ is to have a substantial income or considerable money at your disposal—perhaps you’re a successful surgeon or a top-tier corporate lawyer. This income facilitates a lifestyle where luxury isn’t the exception—it’s the rule. … Read more

Retirement Savings: How to Determine the Right Amount to Retire in India

Money to Retire in India

Are you dreaming of a comfortable and worry-free retirement in India? Planning for your golden years involves many factors, but one of the most crucial is determining the right retirement savings amount. With so many variables at play, it can be challenging to know where to start. That’s where we come in. In this comprehensive guide, we will break down the essential steps and considerations you need to take to ensure you have enough money to retire comfortably in India. From analyzing your current financial situation to estimating future expenses, we’ll provide the tools and insights you need to make … Read more

Why Are Ultra Rich Individuals Leaving India? An Insightful Examination

Ultra rich leaving India and going to Dubai or Singapore

India is a country known for its rich cultural heritage and booming economy. India has seen a significant rise in the number of High Net Worth Individuals (HNIs) or simply ultra-rich. However, a recent trend has caught the attention of economists and social scientists alike. A growing number of these HNIs are leaving the country. This article delves into the reasons behind this trend, its implications, and the perspectives on whether they should stay or go. Who are HNIs? HNIs are individuals with substantial financial assets, typically with a net worth of over $1 million or INR 8.2 crores. The … Read more

Unlocking the Superpower of Time: The Secret to Effective Retirement Saving Starts Now

The answer is simple – as soon as possible. Time is one of the most valuable resources we have, and when it comes to saving for retirement, it can be a superpower. Thanks to the power of compounding, every dollar you save today could be worth much more in the future. This is why starting to save for retirement at a young age can make a significant difference in the long run. The Super Power of Time – The Power of Compounding Do you recall the awe and wonder that magic tricks instilled in you as a child? The coin … Read more

Unraveling the Rule of 72: A Timeless Guide to Understanding Compound Interest

Rule of 72 Demystified

Have you ever pondered the intricacies of money growth, wondering how long it would take for an investment to double? If so, then the Rule of 72, a simple but powerful tool for financial forecasting, is the key to unlocking these mysteries. This article delves into the concept of the Rule of 72, its applications, and its limitations, aided by practical examples. Understanding the Rule of 72 The Rule of 72 is a shortcut or rule of thumb in finance that estimates the years required to double an investment at a constant annual rate of return. The rule states that … Read more

How Much Money Do I Need to Retire in India (Updated)

Will I have enough money to retire in India? This question makes most people lose their sleep. And, rightfully so, most people are aware that they need to save for retirement. But understanding how much money you would need to retire comfortably takes a lot more effort.  In this post, we will tackle the question of – how to calculate the money required to retire early in India. My father retired from his public sector job after spending 35 years in the same position. He now enjoys his retirement life with a decent pension and healthcare taken care of by … Read more