Radhika Gupta, MD and CEO of Edelweiss Mutual Fund, shared insights on the evolving landscape of investment and retirement planning in India. She noted that many Indians retire asset-rich but lack sufficient income, highlighting the need for proactive retirement strategies. Gupta observed that the last 20-22 months have reaffirmed the importance of systematic investment plans (SIPs), which saw ₹32,000 crore in inflows in March, despite market challenges. She emphasized the maturity of retail investors, who are increasingly willing to take calculated risks. Gupta introduced the concept of lifecycle funds, which allow for gradual risk adjustment as investors approach their financial goals, making them a more structured approach to investing. She believes that many investors still hold outdated views about retirement, often assuming they should shift entirely to fixed income at age 60, despite longer life expectancies. Gupta advocates for early and aggressive retirement planning, suggesting that individuals need to rethink their asset allocation strategies to ensure liquidity and income during retirement.