Forget gold or silver: Bengaluru-based founder, who is an IIM Ahmedabad graduate, backs this smarter investment

Abid Hassan, the Bengaluru-based founder of options trading platform Sensibull, has advised youngsters to prioritise upskilling instead of worrying about the recent surge in gold and silver prices. His advice comes amid a growing trend of retail investors flocking to precious metals during the current market rally.

Hassan shared a personal anecdote on social media platform X, highlighting the long-term value of investing in oneself over tangible assets.

From Gold Medal to Skill Building: Hassan’s Journey

Hassan recalled receiving an 8-gram gold medal in 2000 for his performance in the 10th grade. At that time, the medal was valued at approximately Rs 4,000. Today, the same medal would be worth nearly Rs 1.2 lakh due to the rise in gold prices.

Despite the potential financial gain, Hassan sold the medal to fund coaching classes for his entrance exams. He later completed a BTech from NIT Calicut and a post-graduate diploma in management from IIM Ahmedabad.

Reflecting on his decision, Hassan said: “That medal went from Rs 4,000 to Rs 1.2 lakh now, but I’m sure the coaching was worth way more.”

Skills as a Real Investment

Hassan’s message on X resonated with many users, emphasising the concept of opportunity cost and the real value of skill acquisition.

“Gentle reminder: forget this gold and silver nonsense, focus on skills and building things,” he wrote.

Users largely agreed with Hassan’s perspective: “People forget skills are the real inflation hedge,” noted one X user.

“Assets compound, but skills change your trajectory,” said another, highlighting that the education and experience gained from investing in oneself can create long-term opportunities.

However, some cautioned that investing in skills only pays off if one actually develops capability:

“That trade only makes sense if the coaching actually compounded into capability. Most people sell the medal, buy hope, and never turn it into skill; then call it wisdom after the fact,” commented an X user.

Gold vs Skills: A Timeless Debate

Hassan’s advice comes at a time when gold and silver are attracting significant retail interest. While precious metals may offer financial security, the value of upskilling, through education, training, and experience, often surpasses short-term asset appreciation.

Investing in skills not only boosts career prospects but also equips individuals to navigate economic fluctuations more effectively than relying solely on physical assets.

Inputs from agencies