Want Rs 1 crore by 35? CA shares the SIP math and money discipline to get you there

Turning 35 with a Rs 1 crore net worth sounds like an ambitious milestone for many young professionals. Yet, financial experts say the goal is achievable with consistent investing and smart money management. Chartered accountant Nitin Kaushik recently shared insights on social media explaining how disciplined saving, a structured portfolio, and a simple SIP strategy can help build significant wealth over a decade. His advice also highlights a common financial mistake many Indians make with their savings.

According to Kaushik, the median net worth for most 35-year-olds in India is around Rs 25 lakh. One of the most frequent errors people make is either keeping too much money idle in the bank or having too little liquidity when they need it most.

How much to invest in FDs?

He suggests maintaining around 10–15 per cent of total net worth in fixed deposits. For instance, if someone’s net worth is about Rs 30 lakh, keeping roughly Rs 3–4 lakh in FDs is considered a sensible move. This portion of savings acts as a safety cushion that remains accessible and dependable if financial circumstances suddenly change.

Emergency fund

Kaushik also stresses the importance of maintaining an emergency fund that is separate from long-term investments. Ideally, this fund should cover six months of expenses. If a person spends around Rs 1 lakh every month, they should keep at least Rs 6 lakh in a liquid savings account. The purpose of this reserve is not to generate high returns but to ensure that investors are not forced to sell their stocks during market downturns.

Rs 1 crore at 35?

For those aiming to reach the Rs 1 crore mark by the age of 35, Kaushik says the formula is straightforward but requires discipline. Someone who begins investing at 25 with a monthly SIP of Rs 25,000 and increases the contribution by 10 per cent every year can steadily build wealth over time. Assuming an average annual return of about 12 per cent, this approach could grow to roughly Rs 85 lakh to Rs 1 crore by the time the investor turns 35.

He also shared what a balanced portfolio for Indian investors often looks like. Equities, including mutual funds and stocks, typically form about 50 per cent of the portfolio and drive long-term growth. Real estate makes up around 30 per cent and provides stability. Fixed deposits and cash together account for roughly 15 per cent, ensuring liquidity when needed. The remaining 5 per cent is usually allocated to gold, which serves as a safety net during uncertain times.

FDs are important

While some investors question the role of fixed deposits because of taxes and relatively lower returns, Kaushik believes they still play a crucial role in financial planning. Liquidity, he says, is often underestimated. Even high-net-worth individuals keep substantial amounts in FDs because it provides what he calls sleep-well-at-night money.


The idea, he explains, is not to chase the highest possible returns on every rupee. Instead, it is about protecting the financial foundation that supports long-term wealth creation. He also encourages people to review their accounts regularly. If around 80 per cent of someone’s money is sitting in a savings account, inflation is quietly eroding its value. On the other hand, having no cash reserves at all can leave a person vulnerable to unexpected expenses such as medical emergencies.

For Kaushik, the key to lasting wealth lies in balance. A combination of disciplined investing, adequate liquidity, and diversified assets can help individuals build financial security without unnecessary stress.