Bhadresh Rami was doing his post-doctoral research at Stanford University, US, when the sub-prime crisis of 2008 struck. This has in some ways had an effect on the way he views his finances. “There is volatility in the world; things are very fluid. I was searching for plans that incorporate financial stability,” said Bhadresh. He had interacted with some certified financial planners (CFPs) there, and brought some of the learning back when he returned to India. “It’s like going to a doctor. Give me a final solution; not options. I didn’t want confusing replies from experts,” he said.
He was clear about the kind of adviser he wanted. “I wanted a continuous and regular interaction; not once or twice a year. I also wanted ‘fee-only’ CFPs because they are unbiased and have no vested interest,” he said. Bhadresh and Sapna are both “thrifty in outlook”. But they found an “HNI bias in some planners,” said Bhadresh.
They found a compatible adviser in Melvin Joseph, who they found unbiased in recommendations and helped them form a clear plan of action.
