Starting to Invest in Your 20s

When you're starting out, the amount you invest matters far less than the fact that you start at all. Time is the one advantage that can't be bought later, and in your 20s you have more of it than you ever will again.

Build the foundation first. An emergency fund of a few months' expenses and basic health cover mean you won't have to unwind long-term investments when life throws up a surprise.

Keep the investing itself simple. A regular, systematic investment into a diversified option builds the habit and smooths out the ups and downs of the market over time. You don't need to pick winners. You need to be consistent.

Then let goals lead. As your income grows, attach your investing to real goals: a home, further study, long-term wealth, so every rupee has a purpose and a horizon.