Sunday, 22 December 2024
Sunday, 22 December 2024
This Dhanteras, many people are moving away from traditional investments like gold and silver. Instead, they are choosing digital investments, bonds and even tech gadgets. Young people especially see these options as more practical for today’s world.
Why digital investments are gaining popularity
Digital investments like stocks, mutual funds, and even digital gold are appealing to the younger generation. Many find these options easier to access and understand, especially with mobile apps that make investing simple. People can buy digital gold in small amounts, so they don’t need a large sum to start.
“Digital gold allows me to invest in gold without the hassle of physical storage,” said Nayani Bajpai, 29, an advertising industry professional from Noida. “Also, I’m an active investor in mutual funds, stocks, and more which provide easy tracking and diversification in one’s portfolio.”
Girish Chandra, 24, a private sector employee from Dehradun, said he had a few hiccups trying to convince his mother that buying gold on Dhanteras did not need a visit to the jeweller.
“Initially, my mother wasn’t very supportive of buying gold digitally, but I managed to convince her. Eventually, we decided to invest more during the festive season,” he said.
Bonds as a secure investment
Bonds are another option growing in popularity. Government bonds, gold bonds and corporate bonds offer steady returns with low risk, which attract many young professionals. Bonds are also easy to manage and people feel that their money is safe.
“I have discovered the magic of sovereign gold bonds, where I get exposure to gold with none of the storage hassles,” said Raj Dulange, 28, chief strategist at EVM India.
“The extra interest is the cherry on top, making SGBs my new gold standard for Dhanteras. SGBs are the shortcut to tradition, practicality, and a little extra yield,” he added.
Tech gadgets as modern investments
While tech gadgets may not seem like a traditional investment instrument, many see them as useful assets. For example, a high-quality laptop or smartphone can support work, learning, or hobbies. Some even invest in gadgets like fitness trackers or smart home devices.
“I believe Dhanteras is about investing in things that add value to our lives, so why not tech that supports our wellness?” asked Charvi Khurana, 23, a young private sector employee from Rudrapur in Uttarakhand.
“By choosing fitness-related tech, I feel like I’m honouring the tradition of investing in something meaningful while also embracing what’s relevant to my lifestyle. For me, it's the perfect mix of respecting tradition and staying connected with modern needs.”
Alongside digital investments and tech gadgets, eco-friendly and sustainable jewellery is another popular choice this Dhanteras. Many young people are becoming more conscious of the impact of their purchases, including jewellery. They look for pieces made from recycled materials or from brands that focus on ethical sourcing.
“Sustainability plays a significant role in my Dhanteras shopping choices,” said Anshu Singh, 25 assistant manager at a company in Delhi. “I prioritise eco-friendly and responsibly sourced products, avoiding single-use items and opting for durable, long-lasting goods. I also consider the environmental impact of packaging, transportation, and production processes. This mindful approach ensures my celebrations align with my values, promoting a greener and more conscious festive season.”
For these young people, Dhanteras represents a new way of thinking about prosperity, focused on the future.
