Tell us about your mentor. What are the important lessons that you learned from him/her?
We all have mentors as we navigate the passage of life. In fact, many people possess outstanding qualities and it is up to us what we extract from them. Some of the lessons I have learnt from mentors are simplicity, integrity, resourcefulness and innovation. I would strive to continue my learning process and share those learning with others.
What makes the mutual fund industry an exciting industry to work?
The mutual fund industry is a combination of proactive learning and relationship skills. Given its dynamics, it keeps you on toes and there is always excitement in the air.
It is definitely ever evolving and ensures that you cannot miss a single day. Also, mutual funds provide investors through a disciplined investing approach in helping them achieve their long term financial goals.
Where do you see the Indian MF industry five years from now?
There is a huge scope of growth for sure! Retail penetration is showing great momentum. I do see the overall unique folio count increasing multi-fold and mutual funds becoming the number one choice of every household. Clearly, SIPs are the only way ahead for households planning their long term savings. The demographics are hugely favourable and there is a scope for boutique asset managers and definitely conventionally managed asset managers. The Investors today understand mutual funds much better than what they understood a decade ago. Together, our distribution partners and asset management companies in partnership have done a wonderful job towards creating high acceptance of mutual funds.
Between a well-paying job and interesting job (which pays less), what will you choose and why?
An Interesting job will always attract me more. The learning curve must always be upward trending. The fuel to any interesting job is the passion you carry to excel and go beyond ambition. Challenges in the path and our efforts to overcome them have always attracted me.
What is the recipe for success in corporate life?
Focus on your strengths and continue learning from your seniors and colleagues. We need to understand the goals and purpose and align our efforts accordingly. There are always limitations, challenges and dejections in our way; however, we must not lose our resilience, passion, confidence and be innovative throughout the journey. Obstacles must be dealt with a solution providing approach and convert them into opportunities for growth. Teamwork is essential.
What keeps you motivated?
People are my motivation. Across various conversations, the ideas we hear and share and hence their recognition is motivating. When I see my thoughts being echoed and implemented by others, it keeps me motivated. The fact that there is so much more to do and achieve, it keeps me motivated. While motivation is largely self-driven, you can imbibe positive energies from the people around you.
How and where do you invest your money?
Mutual fund is the only asset class I believe in; hence, I invest in equity funds through SIPs for long term savings.
Role model or celebrity who inspires you the most and why?
Dr. A P J Abdul Kalam. His simplicity, reservoir of knowledge, love for children, hardwork, vision, power leadership and yet being down to earth are a few of his great qualities that have attracted me.
Can you recommend a book to our readers that has inspired you?
Wings of Fire, an autobiography of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam. It is about how Dr.Kalam through the sheer dint of hard work achieved success despite his humble background. The book is full of insights and interesting life experiences of Dr. Kalam.
What cause do you support?
Educating a child. It’s to my mind the most benevolent and noble act one could do. It’s every child’s right and the best way for us to support the world we live in.
What is your favourite past time?
I love watching movies on television. Catching up with reading is another important thing on my list. Of course, quality time with my family.
