Vittae Blogs

Tag: investment

  • India’s Hotel Industry: From Collapse to Comeback

     

    The Indian hotel industry has lived through one of the most dramatic shifts in recent memory. Before 2020, it was a growth engine powering jobs, travel, and foreign exchange. Then came COVID-19, which brought hotels across the country to a standstill. Empty lobbies, shuttered kitchens, and mass job losses became the new reality.

    And yet, just a few years later, the industry is not only back on its feet but stronger than before. Occupancy levels are rising, revenues are breaking records, and investors are pouring money into new projects. In fact, hospitality is once again one of the fastest-growing contributors to India’s GDP and employment.

    This blog explores the journey of India’s hotel industry: the pre-COVID boom, the pandemic collapse, the dramatic recovery, and what makes Chennai one of the country’s most exciting hotel markets right now.

    The Pre-COVID Boom: Growth, Jobs, and Global Visitors

    In the decade leading up to 2020, India’s hotels were on a steady climb.

    • Contribution to the economy: In 2019, tourism and hospitality contributed about 9.2% of India’s GDP, valued at nearly US$194 billion.
    • Jobs engine: The sector supported over 80 million jobs, roughly 1 in 12 jobs in the country.
    • Foreign arrivals: India welcomed 10.9 million international tourists in 2019, generating US$30 billion in foreign exchange earnings.
    • Healthy performance: Average occupancy in major cities hovered around 65%, and both ADR (Average Daily Rate) and RevPAR (Revenue per Available Room) were on the rise.

    With new hotels opening in metros and Tier-II cities alike, the industry was buzzing with optimism.

    The COVID Crash: Empty Rooms, Silent Corridors

    Then came March 2020. Within weeks, hotels that were running at healthy occupancies saw bookings vanish.

    • Occupancy fell below 10% during lockdown months.
    • Revenue collapsed by over 60%, wiping out gains of the previous decade.
    • The sector’s GDP contribution shrank by nearly 40%, and job losses crossed 20 million.
    • Foreign arrivals dropped from 10.9 million in 2019 to just 2.7 million in 2020 — a 75% collapse.

    Many hotels shut temporarily. Others tried creative survival strategies — turning into quarantine centers, launching cloud kitchens, or offering “work-from-hotel” packages. But the industry as a whole faced its toughest period ever.

    The Big Comeback: Powered by Domestic Travel

    The recovery began in late 2021 and accelerated through 2022–23, led not by foreign tourists but by Indians themselves.

    • Domestic travel exploded: In 2023, Indians made 2.5 billion domestic trips, driving demand for hotels in metros, resorts, and smaller towns.
    • Occupancy bounced back to 63–66% nationwide in 2023, almost at pre-COVID levels.
    • Room rates climbed higher than before: ADR rose to ₹7,500–8,000, above 2019 averages.
    • RevPAR surpassed 2019, proving that hotels weren’t just filling up rooms — they were earning more per guest.
    • Investments surged: In 2023–24, over 14,400 branded rooms were added, and total inventory is projected to cross 300,000 by 2029.

    By FY24, hotel revenues were expected to grow 13–15%, making hospitality one of India’s fastest-growing service industries again.

    How the Industry Changed After COVID

    COVID didn’t just pause growth, it reshaped how hotels operate.

    1. Technology at the core: Mobile check-ins, digital menus, and AI-driven pricing are now standard.
    2. Domestic demand focus: Packages for weddings, staycations, and weekend getaways became core revenue drivers.
    3. New revenue streams: Hotels diversified into co-working, wellness retreats, and food delivery.
    4. Sustainability push: Energy efficiency, green certifications, and eco-conscious practices are increasingly important to travellers.
    5. Expansion beyond metros: Tier-II and Tier-III cities have become the new growth frontier.

    The post-pandemic hotel industry is leaner, more digital, and more guest-focused than it was before 2020.

    Spotlight on Chennai: A City That Bounced Back Strong

    Chennai offers one of the best examples of how Indian cities have recovered and adapted.

    Strong recovery performance

    • In Q1 2024, Chennai recorded the highest RevPAR growth in India at 21.7% year-on-year.
    • By early 2025, RevPAR growth remained strong at around 18.7% YoY.
    • Occupancy levels often cross 65–70% during peak periods, boosted by a mix of business and leisure demand.

    Demand drivers

    • Corporate travel: Chennai’s IT, automotive, and manufacturing industries create steady hotel demand.
    • Medical tourism: Patients from across India, Africa, and the Middle East travel here for treatment, boosting long-stay and family stays.
    • Events & exhibitions: Major conferences like the India Leather Fair and USICON bring spikes in hotel bookings.

    New supply and investments

    • India opened 36 new hotels (2,316 keys) in Q1 2024, with Chennai among the metros benefiting.
    • A major milestone: GRT Hotels acquired the 178-room Asiana Hotel on OMR for ₹153 crore in 2025, with renovations underway and partial reopening planned for 2026.

    Outlook for Chennai

    With airport expansion, a growing IT corridor, and proximity to leisure destinations like Mahabalipuram, Chennai is set to remain one of South India’s most resilient and profitable hotel markets.

    Why Hotels Matter to India’s Economy

    Hotels aren’t just about rooms and restaurants — they’re a pillar of India’s growth story.

    • GDP impact: Hospitality is projected to contribute 10% of GDP by 2028 and reach US$1 trillion by 2047.
    • Employment: It remains one of India’s largest job creators, directly and indirectly supporting millions of livelihoods.
    • Foreign exchange: Tourism earned India US$25 billion in 2023, recovering from the pre-COVID peak of US$30 billion in 2019.
    • Regional development: New hotels in smaller cities are creating fresh hubs for jobs, infrastructure, and local economies.

    • Contribution of Tourism & Hospitality to India’s GDP & Employment:

    • Expected Revenue Growth (India):

    • Growth of room inventory:

    India & Chennai Hotel Industry Post-COVID

    Metric Data / Value Time Period Notes / Source
    India: New branded hotel rooms added ~ 14,400 rooms added in 2024 Full year 2024 India’s branded hotel room inventory to cross 300,000 by 2029; much of new additions are outside top 10 markets. (India Brand Equity Foundation)
    India: Inventory projection Branded hotel room inventory to cross 300,000 keys by 2029 Forecast Driven by religious/leisure tourism and expansion into Tier-II/III cities. (India Brand Equity Foundation)
    India: RevPAR & revenue growth RevPAR up 11.4% YoY in Q1 2024; ADR up ~8.5% over Q1 2023 Q1 2024 JLL report; India as a whole. (JLL)
    India: FY24 revenue growth expected ~ 13-15% revenue growth in FY24 FY24 ICRA / IBEF reports. (India Brand Equity Foundation)
    India: Contribution to GDP Direct contribution was US$ 40 billion in 2022; expected ~US$ 68 billion by 2027; reach US$ 1 trillion by 2047 2022; projections to 2027, 2047 From Hotel Association of India (HAI) / Benori Knowledge “Vision 2047” report. (The Economic Times)
    India: Investments in 2024 (1H) ~ US$ 93 million in hotel investments in first half of 2024 H1 2024 Source: JLL / IBEF. (India Brand Equity Foundation)
    India: New keys added Q1 2025 ~9,500 keys added; 31 branded hotels with ~3,253 keys commenced operations Q1 2025 Business Standard / JLL. (Business Standard)
    Metric (Chennai) Data / Value Time Period Notes / Source
    RevPAR growth 21.7% YoY growth in Q1 2024 over Q1 2023 Q1 2024 Chennai registered the strongest RevPAR growth among Indian metros. (JLL)
    RevPAR growth (another period) ~ 18.7% RevPAR growth Q1 2025 vs Q1 2024? Chennai reported ~18.7% RevPAR growth in that period. (Business Standard)
    New hotel openings in India & effect in Chennai In Q1 2024: 36 new hotels opened, with 2,316 keys; many in Tier II/III cities Q1 2024 Chennai would have been among metros getting benefit; but exact keys in Chennai from those openings not broken out. (JLL)
    Hotel acquisition / new supply in Chennai Asiana Hotel (178 rooms) on OMR acquired by GRT Hotels & Resorts for ₹153 crore; plans to open partially (50-60 rooms) by March 2026 after renovation. (The Times of India) Acquisition in 2025; reopening planned 2025-26 Helps to understand new supply inflows.

     

    The Road Ahead

    From silent corridors in 2020 to record-breaking revenues in 2024, the Indian hotel industry’s journey has been one of resilience and reinvention. Domestic travellers fueled the comeback, while technology and sustainability shaped a new playbook for growth.

    Chennai’s success story highlights what the future may hold: diverse demand streams, strong investments, and consistent performance.

    The message is clear: India’s hotels aren’t just back in business but driving the country’s economic future.

     

  • How to Never Be a Greedy Investor: IPO Edition

    A company decides to go public, it makes the news, everyone starts talking about it, and suddenly it feels like this is the moment. The next big thing. The golden ticket.

    Your friend at work is already bragging about how he’s getting in early. Social media is buzzing. CNBC is running flashy segments with bold predictions. And in your gut, you’re thinking:

    “What if I miss this? What if this is my chance to make quick money?”

    That feeling? That’s greed whispering in your ear.

    And here’s the thing about the stock market: greed has a way of punishing people, especially when it comes to IPOs.

    But don’t worry, you don’t need to avoid IPOs completely. You just need to understand how they work, recognise the traps, and approach them with calmness instead of frenzy. In this post, we’ll dive deep into how to avoid greedy investing during IPO season, in plain language, with real examples and practical advice.

    First, What Exactly Is an IPO?

    IPO stands for Initial Public Offering. It’s when a private company sells its shares to the public for the first time. Before this moment, only insiders, founders, and private investors (like venture capitalists) owned pieces of the company.

    The IPO is the company’s big “coming out party.” They ring the bell at the stock exchange, the CEO gives interviews, the media covers it like a festival, and suddenly, regular people like you and me can buy shares.

    Sounds glamorous, right? But here’s the catch: all that glamour can make us forget to ask the most important question: is this actually a good investment?

    Greedy vs. Disciplined: Two Investor Mindsets

    When IPOs roll around, people usually fall into one of two camps.

    • The Greedy Investor: “This stock is going to double on day one. I don’t even care what the company does, I just need in.
    • The Disciplined Investor: “Okay, interesting. Let me look at their numbers, their business model, and whether this makes sense for me long-term.”

    The first investor is driven by excitement and fear of missing out (FOMO). The second is guided by research, patience, and a plan.

    Think of it like diets. A crash diet promises you’ll lose 20 pounds in two weeks. A disciplined approach, eating healthy, exercising, making steady changes takes longer but actually lasts. IPO investing works the same way.

    Why IPOs Bring Out the Greed in Us

    IPOs are like magnets for human emotions. Let’s look at why they’re so tempting:

    1. The Day-One Pop Fantasy

    We’ve all heard stories of IPOs that skyrocketed on the first day like a lottery ticket that actually paid out. It makes you think, “If I just buy early, I’ll cash in.”

    But here’s the truth: most everyday investors don’t even get access to the early “IPO price.” Big institutions, banks, and insiders get those. By the time regular people like us can buy, the price is often already inflated.

    So while a few lucky folks might double their money, most latecomers are the ones funding those gains.

    2. The Hype Machine

    When a company goes public, it’s not just a financial event it’s a media event.

    Think about Uber’s IPO. Or Facebook’s. Or Coinbase. These weren’t just business stories; they were cultural moments. News outlets hyped them up, influencers made videos, and friends argued about them at dinner tables.

    Hype makes us believe we’re missing out on something historic, when in reality, hype is just noise.

    3. The “Once-in-a-Lifetime” Lie

    Every IPO feels like it’s the one.

    The next Amazon. The next Google. The next Tesla. But here’s reality: there will always be another IPO. Always.

    If you miss one, don’t panic. The market isn’t a one-time train it’s a bus that keeps making stops.

    Real People, Real Pain: Examples of Greedy IPO Investing

    Let’s look at a few famous IPOs and how greed burned people.

    • Uber (2019): Everyone thought Uber was unstoppable. The IPO price was $45. On the first day, the stock dropped. Within a few months, it was down nearly 40%. Greedy investors who thought it would shoot up instantly were left frustrated.
    • Coinbase (2021): Launched during peak crypto hype. The stock opened at $381 and shot up. People rushed in, hoping for overnight riches. Within weeks, it dropped under $250, and later fell even further as the crypto bubble cooled.
    • WeWork (2019): This one is infamous. The hype was insane. The valuation was sky-high. But when people looked closer, the business model was shaky. The IPO collapsed before it even happened. Those who blindly believed the story would have been crushed.
    • Facebook (2012): Not all IPOs are disasters Facebook is now a giant. But even Facebook’s IPO had a rocky start. It launched at $38 and quickly dropped below 20 before finally recovering. Greedy investors who thought it would soar immediately were disappointed.

    The lesson? IPOs can turn into long-term successes, but the early days are often bumpy. Patience usually wins.

    The Anti-Greed Playbook: How to Stay Grounded

    So, how do you avoid falling into the trap? Here’s a simple framework:

    1. Do Your Homework

    Don’t just buy because your cousin or Twitter is excited. Look at the basics:

    • What does this company actually do?
    • How do they make money?
    • Are they profitable or on a clear path to get there?
    • Who are their competitors?

    If you can’t explain the business to a 10-year-old, you probably don’t understand it well enough to invest.

    2. Remember: Price Isn’t Value

    A 20 stock isn’t automatically cheap, and a 200 stock isn’t automatically expensive. What matters is how much the entire company is worth compared to its earnings.

    Think of it like buying a house. A small house for 200,000 might be overpriced if it’s falling apart. A large house for 500,000 might be a bargain if it’s in great shape and in a prime location.

    3. Don’t Chase, Pace Yourself

    You don’t need to buy on day one. In fact, many IPOs dip after the initial excitement fades. Waiting a few months often gives you a better entry point and more information about how the company is performing.

    4. Manage Your Risk

    Even if you really like the company, don’t put all your money into it. Treat IPOs like seasoning in a recipe add a little, not the whole jar.

    5. Have an Exit Plan

    Before you buy, ask yourself:

    • Why am I buying this?
    • What’s my timeline?
    • Under what conditions would I sell?

    If you don’t have answers, you’re likely buying out of emotion, not logic.

    A Simple Checklist Before Buying an IPO

    Here’s a quick way to check yourself:

    • Am I buying because of hype, or because I understand the company?
    • Do I know what the company is worth, or just the stock price?
    • Can I afford to lose this money if it goes south?
    • Am I comfortable holding this for years, not days?

    If you can’t confidently say “yes” to these, it’s probably greed talking.

    A Story: My Friend and the “Next Big Thing”

    A friend of mine once jumped into a highly hyped IPO. He didn’t know much about the company—he just heard it was “the future.” He poured in a few thousand dollars, hoping to double it quickly.

    At first, the stock went up. He was thrilled. But then it dropped. And dropped again. Within weeks, he was down 40%.

    What did he do? He panicked. He sold at a loss.

    Months later, the stock started climbing back up. Had he been patient, done his research, and sized his investment smaller, he might have been fine. But because he acted out of greed, he lost both money and confidence.

    From Frenzy to Wisdom

    IPOs are exciting. They’re fun to watch, they make headlines, and sometimes they really do launch the next big company. But excitement isn’t a strategy.

    The truth is simple: the market will always give you another chance. You don’t have to chase every IPO. The best opportunities often reveal themselves slowly, not in a flash of opening-day fireworks.

    So next time you feel IPO FOMO bubbling up, pause. Take a breath. Ask yourself if you’re chasing value or just chasing the crowd.

    Because the investors who do well aren’t the ones who jump into every shiny new IPO. They’re the ones who know when to wait, when to act, and most importantly when to walk away.

    And if you can remember that, you’ll never be a greedy IPO investor.

     

  • 5 Life Lessons Every Software Engineer Learns the Hard Way (But You Don’t Have To)

    Intro: Code, Coffee, and the Curveballs

    You started with curiosity. A passion for building. Maybe you were the “tech guy” in your circle, or the quiet one who could fix anything.

    Fast forward to now: deadlines, burnout, Slack pings at 10pm, and a feeling that you’re not “growing fast enough.”

    Sound familiar?

    You’re not alone. Engineering is a high-growth, high-burn game. And with experience comes a few truths that nobody teaches in tutorials.

    Here are 5 life lessons most software engineers only learn after years in the trenches—with real examples, data, and emotional honesty.

    Lesson 1: Tech Changes Fast. But Fundamentals Stay.

    In 2010, PHP was everywhere. By 2016, React ruled. Now, it’s AI frameworks, Svelte, Astro, and edge computing.

    The cycle never stops.

    But what stays: problem-solving ability, clean architecture, and core CS concepts.

    Real Data:

    • A Stack Overflow 2023 Developer Survey found that engineers with strong CS fundamentals reported 22% higher salaries than peers who jumped tools without depth.

    Tip:

    • Learn one backend language deeply (Python, Go, etc.)
    • Master SQL. Understand system design.
    • Don’t just write code—understand why it works.

    Lesson 2: Burnout Is Not a Badge of Honor

    Late nights. Hero fixes. Weekend deployments.

    Sure, it feels good to be the go-to problem solver. Until you’re fried. Disconnected. Questioning everything.

    Real Talk:

    • A GitHub 2023 survey found 48% of devs reported burnout, with top reasons being unclear requirements, overwork, and lack of impact.

    Relatable Example:

    • Priya, a 30-year-old full-stack developer, quit her ₹35L job in Bengaluru to take a 6-month sabbatical after a mental breakdown. She later joined a startup with fewer hours, less pay—but a much happier life.

    What Works:

    • Use your leaves.
    • Push back on unreasonable timelines.
    • Therapy is normal. Meditation helps. Hobbies are essential.

    Lesson 3: Communication Beats Cleverness

    You wrote a brilliant piece of code. But if nobody can read it, maintain it, or understand why it exists—it’s not brilliant.

    Truth: The best engineers are teachers. They unblock teammates, document well, and align with product goals.

    Data Point:

    • Google’s internal study “Project Aristotle” showed that psychological safety and communication matter more than sheer IQ for high-performing teams.

    Tips:

    • Start writing better PR descriptions.
    • Talk to the QA team early.
    • Don’t be the silent genius. Be the helpful peer.

    Lesson 4: You Are Not Your Job Title

    Staff engineer. Principal developer. Lead architect.

    Sounds great. But titles shift. Startups fail. Teams reorg. One day you’re “senior,” next day you’re laid off.

    2023 Reality:

    • Amazon, Meta, Google all laid off senior engineers. Many of them had no backup plan.

    Mindset Shift:

    • Build your personal brand.
    • Grow your network on LinkedIn or Twitter.
    • Stay humble. Stay curious.

    Your value is more than your org chart.

    Lesson 5: Money Works When You Sleep (If You Let It)

    Most engineers start earning well young. But many never build wealth.

    Example:

    • Ankur, 26, started a ₹15K/month SIP in index funds in 2019. By 2024, he has ₹13.2L in investments. Meanwhile, his friend Rahul kept money in savings—₹9.1L.

    Difference: ₹4L+, and that’s just the beginning.

    Mini-Checklist:

    • Emergency fund (3-6 months of expenses)
    • Term life insurance
    • SIP in index or hybrid funds
    • Optional: ESOP strategy, RSUs, or real estate

    Build optionality. Buy time. That’s real freedom.

    Closing: From Coding to Crafting a Life

    Your engineering career isn’t just about writing better code.

    It’s about building a better life that includes growth, peace, clarity, and choice.

    Learn the lessons now, so you don’t have to learn them the hard way later.

    Keep building. Just don’t forget who you’re building it for.

  • Shah Rukh Khan Net Worth: The Bollywood Billionaire

    Shah Rukh Khan Net Worth: The Bollywood Billionaire

    Shah Rukh Khan, the charming heartthrob of Bollywood, has not just ruled the silver screen but also conquered the financial arena. 

    Beyond his cinematic achievements, there’s an aspect of his career that often sparks curiosity among fans and enthusiasts – his net worth.

    You wouldn’t say no if I said he’s like the desi Tom Cruise!

    Let’s take a joyride through the journey of Shah Rukh Khan’s net worth, sprinkled with a bit of stardust.

    The Early Struggles and Triumphs:

    Born in 1965 in Delhi, Shah Rukh Khan’s initial years in the industry were a bit of a rollercoaster. His debut in “Deewana” (1992) marked the beginning of something big, but success didn’t come knocking immediately.

    He didn’t become the richest like Bill Gates or strongest like Dwayne Johnson in a fe weels!

    Battling financial challenges, Khan persevered, taking on roles that showcased his versatility and, eventually, his bank balance and celebrity net worth began to mirror his rising fame.

    The ’90s: The Golden Era

    The ’90s and early 2000s catapulted Shah Rukh Khan into superstardom. Blockbusters like “Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge” (1995) and “Kuch Kuch Hota Hai” (1998) established him as a star.

    With each hit, his net worth soared, and he danced his way into the hearts of fans worldwide.

    Beyond the Screen: The Business Maestro

    Shah Rukh Khan’s entrepreneurial spirit extended beyond the realms of film. In 2008, he became the face of Tag Heuer, a luxury watch brand.

    Additionally, he endorsed brands like Pepsi, Nokia, and Hyundai, further bolstering his income. His association with these high-profile brands not only added to his net worth but also solidified his status as a brand ambassador par excellence.

    But star SRK wasn’t content with just acting. In 2002, he launched Red Chillies Entertainment, his production company. Fast forward, and it’s not just a production house – it’s a money-making machine. From films to visual effects to IPL cricket with Kolkata Knight Riders, Shah Rukh Khan became a Bollywood mogul.

    Numbers Check: Red Chillies Entertainment’s estimated value is a whopping $300 million.

    The Power Couple: Shah Rukh and Gauri Khan’s Entrepreneurial Expertise

    Gauri Khan Designs: Gauri’s journey into interior designing isn’t merely a business venture; it’s a testament to the couple’s collective entrepreneurial spirit.

    Diverse Ventures: From film production to interior design, the Khan family’s diverse ventures underscore their resilience and adaptability in the ever-evolving business landscape.

    Analyzing SRK’s Investment Decisions and Financial Planning

    A closer look at Shah Rukh Khan’s investment decisions reveals a thoughtful approach to wealth management.

    Star Khan has invested in diverse sectors, including sports, entertainment, and real estate. His co-ownership of the Team Kolkata Knight Riders in the Indian Premier League showcases his penchant for backing promising ventures. The investing in the cricket team, rather Ipl team surely was a dicey incestement! But, we cannot forget Red Chillies Entertainment.

    Additionally, his real estate investments, including the iconic Mannat, highlight a long-term view on property as an asset class.

    Khan’s financial planning is marked by a balance between traditional and contemporary investments.

    He is a bit like Dwayne Johnson indeed! He understands the importance of staying abreast of market trends and technology, evident in his involvement with tech startups.

    This adaptability showcases a keen understanding of the evolving landscape of wealth creation.

    Branding Brilliance:

    Shah Rukh Khan wasn’t just an actor; he was a brand.

    Heuer, Pepsi, Nokia – you name it, he endorsed it. These brand partnerships established him, a star, as the face of luxury and coolness.

    Numbers Check: His endorsement deals rake in around $10-15 million annually.

    Tech and Education: The Byju’s Bet

    In 2016, Shah Rukh Khan took a plunge into the world of startups, investing in Byju’s – The Learning App. This move wasn’t just about the numbers; it showcased Khan’s foresight into the merging landscapes of technology and education.

    Numbers Check: His investment in Byju’s is estimated to be around $3 million.

    Lights, Camera, Global Action:

    SRK’s charisma isn’t confined to Indian shores. Hollywood beckoned, and he answered with films like “My Name is Khan” (2010). His wax statue at Madame Tussauds, international collaborations, and global recognitions positioned him as not just a Bollywood star but a global icon.

    Red Chillies Entertainment: The Money Magnet

    His production house didn’t just produce films; it ventured into visual effects and digital content. Red Chillies VFX became a powerhouse, working on movies like “Ra.One” (2011), showcasing not just Bollywood drama but also Hollywood-grade effects.

    The Global Reach:

    The Star Shah Rukh Khan’s popularity transcends geographical boundaries. His foray into Hollywood with films like “My Name is Khan” (2010) and collaborations with international stars demonstrated his global appeal. Additionally, his wax statue at Madame Tussauds and his recognition as a global icon by several international organizations further elevated his status.

    International projects, brand endorsements, and appearances on global platforms contributed substantially to Shah Rukh Khan’s net worth.

    The actor’s association with international events, such as the World Economic Forum, positioned him not just as a global influencer. He really is like a Bollywood version of Tom Cruise!

    The Stumbles:

    But, like every hero, SRK faced setbacks. Some film choices, like “Zero” (2018), didn’t quite hit the jackpot. The actor faced criticism for certain film choices that did not fare well at the box office. Films like “Zero” (2018) received mixed reviews, impacting both his professional standing and, to some extent, his net worth.

    The COVID-19 pandemic hit the pause button on the entertainment industry, affecting releases and revenues, including Khan’s.

    Insights into SRK’s Thoughts on Investing and Wealth Building

    Calculated Risks

    “Don’t be a philosopher or a guide to life; be a joke, because jokes are the only things that save you from life’s disappointments.” – SRK’s witty take on risk-taking reveals his belief in approaching challenges with a positive and lighthearted mindset.

    Continuous Learning

    “I truly believe my job is to make sure people smile.” – Beyond just financial success, SRK views his career as a means to bring joy to people, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning and evolving for the audience’s sake.

    Wealth as a Tool

    Rukh shared “I don’t write cheques anymore because I end up signing them ‘With Love, Shah Rukh.”.

    This humorous take on charity reflects his belief that wealth is not just about accumulation but a means to spread love and make a positive impact.

    Sports and Entertainment

    “I have no interest in being the most famous person. I want to be the most loved person.” revealed the star. This was on co-owning KKR in the IPL aligns with SRK’s strategic investments in areas that resonate with his passion and the public.

    Real Estate Ventures

    “Every time I fail, I try something new again.” – The iconic Mannat stands as a symbol of Khan’s resilience, his willingness to learn from setbacks, and his belief in the long-term stability of real estate.

    Diversification

    “I truly believe that women should be financially independent.” – Khan’s investments across sectors indicate a deliberate strategy of diversification for financial resilience.

    Technology and Startups

    “I have never tried to compare myself to anyone else.” – SRK’s involvement with tech startups mirrors his forward-thinking approach, embracing innovation without comparing himself to industry 

    The Bottom Line: A Cool $750 Million

    As of now, Shah Rukh Khan’s net worth stands at an estimated $750 million. It’s not just a figure; it’s a testament to his journey from a middle-class boy in Delhi to the King of Bollywood.

    In a world where fame is fickle, Shah Rukh Khan’s story is a reminder that success isn’t just about acting talent; it’s about resilience, smart business moves, and a knack for staying relevant. His net worth isn’t just a number; it’s the echoes of the cheers from fans and the clinking of coins from successful ventures.

    So, the next time you see Shah Rukh Khan on the screen or on a brand ad, remember, it’s not just entertainment; it’s a masterclass in turning dreams into a billion-dollar reality.

  • How to pick the right Mutual Fund for you in 2022? 

    How to pick the right Mutual Fund for you in 2022? 

    Mutual funds have been proven to be a very successful way to begin one’s investment journey. As an investor, it’s the best investment avenue to begin your journey without having to know much about equity markets, indexes or even how the economy is performing.

    But as a new working individual I personally struggled with picking the right fund. And not surprisingly I, like many of you, would google “Best mutual funds for highest returns”. But is that really the right way to go about a personalized suggestive option?

    Of course not!

    But don’t worry, you don’t have to go through the same struggle I did.

    How to select right mutual funds?

    Investments are not a ‘One size fits all’ type of assets. They are supposed to be personalized based on your expectations, needs and comfort levels. Hence, these are some of the points that you should keep in mind while selecting a suitable fund for yourself:

    Right Mutual fund in 2022

    1. Your Personal Objective – Be mindful of what you are trying to achieve with your investment. Whether it’s a foreseeable major expense like your wedding, a future trip abroad, an emergency fund, your child’s education, your retirement, or even something for your family, make sure you have a clear reason for this investment.

    This objective will help you decide 2 things

    a) A timeline – What your investment’s duration should be.

    b) How risky/ risk-free should you be in order to choose the fund.

    2. Risk Appetite- Risk is a very interesting point here. People between the ages of 22 to 28 are generally ‘risk seekers’. To state the obvious, these are people who in general have lesser debt, lower obligations and have the bandwidth to take on additional risk.

    There after funds that contribute to over 85 to 90% of the funds AUM* to just equity. This makes the fund riskier but it is able to generate higher returns too. (Remember, an investor always looks for additional compensation when he takes more risk. Hence, a high risk to high reward ratio is seen amongst different funds)

    Now, for people over the age of 29, Risk becomes a critical factor. People in this age bracket are generally more cautious about their finances because of responsibilities, debt and other things.For them a fund that has a good balance of both Equity and Debt is preferrable. 20 – 35% of AUM may be dedicated to Debt funds making the fund safer & more stable.

    3. A Suitable Fund – Now that you have a goal in mind with the required time line and risk appetite, look for funds that help you reach the required returns percentage. 

    How do you do that? Well, an easy way is to compare the returns percentage that the fund has made over the required tenure (for eg say 3 years) to the returns made by the Indian Indexes such as Nifty & Sensex. If your fund beats or equates that return percentage, you are good to go. 

    For Example – My 3-year goal is to buy a car for  X amount of rupees. My money has to grow at a continuous interest rate of 15%. I would look for a fund that has been consistently performing well and one that gives me a return of at least 20% CAGR*.

    Types of Funds:

    • Equity Schemes – These are funds that are high risk and have a high return potential. These are ideal for investors in their prime earning stage, looking to build a portfolio with superior returns in the long term.
    • Money Market Funds – These are funds that invest in short term debt instruments, giving a sustainable and stable return. These types of funds are suitable for investors with low risk who are looking to park their surplus over a short term.
    • Fixed Income or Debt Funds – These funds would have majority of their investment in debt instruments such as government securities (G-sec), bonds and debentures. Ideal for low-risk investors who are looking for a steady income.
    • Balanced and Hybrid Funds – Funds that have a good mix of both Equity and debt. The allocation of the AUM would keep changing based on how the sectors are performing in the current market sentiment. Since it’s a combination, the returns would be moderate to high depending on the allocation.

    So do your research to identify the right mutual funds that match with your expectations, needs and comfort levels. 

    If you find this whole process overwhelming, you can always hire an Advisor who can help you with this!

    Glossary

    AUM – Asset Under Management means the total value of the fund being invested by the fund house.

    CAGR – Compounded annual growth rate is the annualized average rate of revenue growth between two given years, assuming growth takes place at an exponentially compounded rate.

    NAV – The performance of a particular scheme of a mutual fund is denoted by NAV (Net asset value). NAV is the market value of securities held by the scheme.