Chartered Accountant Nitin Kaushik has ignited a debate about traditional financial habits in India, suggesting that what many consider 'safe' practices may actually hinder wealth accumulation. He points out that fixed deposits, which typically offer around 7% returns, become less effective when inflation (approximately 6%) and taxes are considered, leading to negative real returns. Kaushik also highlights that the Nifty 50 index has achieved 12–14% compounded annual growth over the last two decades, far surpassing gold, which many still invest in out of tradition rather than financial logic. Furthermore, he critiques the cultural pressure to purchase homes early, noting that long-term equated monthly installments (EMIs) can restrict liquidity and limit career flexibility. Instead, he advocates for systematic investment plans starting with as little as ₹500 (roughly $6 USD), emphasizing that consistent, small investments can outperform traditional saving methods that prioritize security over growth.