In a deeply personal and inspiring episode of the finance podcast “Simple Hai!” hosted by veteran financial journalist Vivek Law, Edelweiss Mutual Fund CEO Radhika Gupta shared powerful insights on long-term investment strategies, personal resilience, and navigating the chaos of modern life.
From being interviewed on television for the first time by Vivek Law 15 years ago to now leading a mutual fund with over ₹1 lakh crore in assets, Radhika Gupta’s journey is nothing short of remarkable. In this candid conversation, she reveals how she balances motherhood, CEO duties, and her passion for financial literacy in an ever-changing India.
Chaos Is Beautiful: How Radhika Balances It All
Asked how she juggles investor meetings, NFOs, and raising a toddler, Radhika called her daily routine “beautiful chaos.” Instead of chasing perfection, she said she believed in going with the flow, forgiving herself for missed moments, and asking for help when needed. Whether it’s sneaking away from a high-stakes event to attend her son’s pre-nursery day or pushing through physical exhaustion during roadshows, she attributed her calm to her parents’ lesson: never panic—time gives answers.
Mental Health, Priorities, and the Power of “No”
Radhika prioritized mental wellness, weekend recovery, and spending quality time with family. She’s unapologetic about saying “no” to unnecessary commitments. Her focus remains clear: “Good work is important. My child is important. My parents are important. Nothing else matters.”
Domestic travel, she said, while rewarding, can be draining. That’s why she dedicates weekends to recovery—mentally, physically, and emotionally. For her, resilience isn’t about doing it all. It’s about doing what truly matters.
Dismissing the FIRE Myth: Why Retirement Isn’t Her Goal
While financial independence resonates with Radhika, the idea of early retirement doesn’t. “Retire early to do what?” she asked Vivek Law. For her, work brings joy and purpose. Having seen her father stay intellectually active post-retirement, she said she believed true freedom lies in doing what you love, not escaping from it.
Financial Planning for the Next Generation
Radhika and her husband, both finance professionals, began planning for their son Remy’s future before he turned one. Aadhaar, PAN, passport, demat account—everything was set up. They started monthly SIPs in three mutual funds: a large & mid-cap fund, a small-cap fund, and an international (USD-based) fund. Why? Because they foresee rising costs of education, especially abroad.
By estimating that higher education abroad might cost ₹9–10 crore in 18 years, she emphasizes the importance of starting early and being practical. “No more toys—gifts go straight into his SIP account,” she quipped.
Keep It Simple: Radhika’s First Investment Advice
For young investors hesitant to take the first step, Radhika offers a clear path: you only need 2–3 good funds to begin with. Think of it like dining in a city full of restaurants—stick to your few trusted ones. Index funds, flexi-cap funds, or hybrid funds are ideal starting points depending on one’s risk appetite. And no, you don’t need 31 SIPs, she warned.
Why Financial Independence Equals Empowerment—Especially for Women
Having grown up with strong role models like her mother and grandmother, Radhika was taught that financial independence is non-negotiable. She believes it’s essential for confidence, equality, and freedom of choice.
She lamented the lack of female representation in finance and media. “When panels show 20 male experts, what does a 10-year-old girl think?” Despite being the only woman CEO in India’s mutual fund industry today, she sees a brighter future. Young women are more financially literate, confident, and interested in money matters than ever before.
Changing the Narrative: Why Role Models Matter
Popular culture often misrepresents women in finance—portraying them as cold, broken, or compromised. “Bombay Begums” disappointed her, showing all women as dysfunctional. “Why would a girl in Varanasi want to join finance after watching that?”
She emphasized that relatable, strong role models are crucial to changing perceptions. Her own video, “The Girl with the Broken Neck,” went viral and brought thousands of messages—from IAS officers to teenage girls—who found courage and acceptance in her story.
The Rise of Business Literacy in India
Radhika’s experience on reality show Shark Tank India was eye-opening. Children as young as seven are learning terms like ‘equity’. From bake-sale style Baby Shark Tanks in housing societies to kids pitching businesses, she sees a new India—hungry, ambitious, and unafraid to take risks.
Family Values, Resilience, and Patriotism
Radhika credits her global upbringing—thanks to her diplomat father—with her adaptability. Raised in Indian embassies across continents, she experienced deep-rooted Indian culture despite living abroad. Transferring schools every few years taught her how to embrace change, form quick bonds, and appreciate cultural diversity.
Final Words: Live Like a Flame Ignited
Signing off with poetry from Sahir Ludhianvi, Radhika encourages everyone to live boldly:
“Neither live hiding your face, nor live with your head bowed…
As long as you live, live like a flame ignited.”
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