In a recent tweet that has ignited a firestorm of discussion on social media, trader and investor Sourav Dutta, known for his controversial comments that often draw criticism, shared a comparison between two financial choices faced by an imaginary character, Ravi.
Dutta’s assertion—suggesting that investing Rs 20,000 per month in a Nifty ETF through a Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) is a smarter decision than paying the same amount as an EMI for a car—has garnered over 1.3 million likes, but not without a fair share of backlash.
Dutta framed his argument around a hypothetical scenario in which ‘Ravi’ could either pay Rs 20,000 monthly for five years, resulting in the acquisition of a car valued at Rs 4 lakh by 2030, or invest the same amount, leading to a projected bank balance of Rs 17 lakh by the same year.
“Life is about the choices we make,” Dutta concluded, stressing on the long-term benefits of investment over immediate gratification.
However, the Twitter community was quick to respond, with many users criticising the notion that financial prudence should override everyday needs and conveniences. One user pointed out that if everyone adopted Ravi's mindset, it could hinder economic growth and market performance, arguing that certain purchases—like a car—are necessities in today’s world.
As the conversation unfolded, one user presented an imaginary scenario where Ravi's reliance on cab services led to a significant financial loss—a project worth Rs 20 lakh slipped through his fingers when rain hindered his commute. Dutta retorted, suggesting that Ravi could have worked from home that day, implying that the digital age offers alternatives to traditional commuting.
The debate took another turn when ‘Ravi’ switched to local trains, leading Dutta to argue that he was “intelligent enough” to seek a fully remote job, showcasing a bias toward those who can adapt to such changes.
Critics further questioned the feasibility of continuously opting for SIPs at the expense of life's immediate pleasures, suggesting that Dutta's logic could lead to a monotonous existence devoid of enjoyment.
"Not everything in life is about saving money!" commented one user.
Dutta suggested that in 2030, Ravi could not only afford the same car (second hand) for Rs 4 lakh but also have Rs 13 lakh left for travel, advocating for a future-oriented mindset.
This discussion is not new for Dutta, who has a history of sharing controversial financial opinions. In an older tweet, he claimed that a salary of Rs 25 lakh per annum is insufficient to sustain a family of three, outlining a breakdown of monthly expenses that left little room for savings.
“Rs 25 LPA = in hand Rs 1.5 L per month... Nothing left to invest,” he had said, igniting similar debates about income and expenditure.
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