No stocks, just FDs, gold, land: Ace investor Shankar Sharma told his family to avoid stocks/ MFs — now they are stress-free and wealthy

Investor Shankar Sharma has stirred discussions on social media by advising individuals to avoid stock market investments. His comments, shared on X (formerly Twitter), have gained traction, especially during ongoing market volatility.

A conservative approach to wealth

Sharma revealed that for the past 35 years, he has advised his sister and brother-in-law, who live in a small town, to stay away from stocks and mutual funds. Instead, he recommended a portfolio comprising 40% fixed deposits (FDs), 30% gold, and 30% raw land about 25 kilometers from town.



"My sis & bro in law live in a small town. Have pestered me for 35 years 'Tell us where/ how to invest in stocks/ MFs.' My Std reply: 'Stay away. This isn't for folks like y'all. Put 40% in good FDs, 30% in Gold, 30% in raw land 25 kms out of town.' Today, they are stress-free," Sharma wrote on X.

Avoiding stock market complexities

Sharma explained that this strategy has helped them remain financially stable without being affected by economic uncertainties. "Today, they are stress-free, liquid, and wealthy beyond dreams. Without knowing what's RBI, who's Guv, what the US Fed, what's debt/GDP, what's trade wars."

Not all make money in market, success depends on luck: Sharma

When an X user suggested that trading could also generate significant wealth, Sharma responded by pointing out the role of luck in stock market success. He noted that only a few people—fewer than 50 to 70 individuals over 35 years—had made substantial gains. "We were lucky, that's all," he admitted.

Challenges of long-term stock trading

Sharma also highlighted the difficulties of sustaining long-term stock market gains. "Let nobody tell you otherwise. It's very very difficult to bat for decades, on different pitches, and survive. And it requires a big bull market tailwind too," he wrote.

Mixed reactions from investors

Sharma’s views have sparked a debate among investors. While some support his conservative approach, others argue that taking calculated risks in the stock market can also yield significant returns.