Amid heightened market volatility and growing uncertainty across asset classes, Edelweiss Mutual Fund MD and CEO Radhika Gupta has cautioned retail investors against seeking quick-fix investment solutions, urging them instead to focus on the basics of finance and long-term planning.
Gupta said she has seen a noticeable rise in queries from friends, family and acquaintances asking where to invest, often framed around popular themes such as buying silver.
"I have 30,000 to invest, should I buy silver? What fund do I buy? I am seeing a lot more friends, family, and folks in general reach out for advice on their portfolio in the last few months,” Gupta said in an X post on Monday.
“It is probably because volatility is so high across asset classes, returns over the last year have been muted to negative for some, and noise and confusion prevails. The reality is: neither me, nor anyone else, can give you a quick fix for a portfolio. Investment advice requires time and context,” she said.
"I have 30,000 to invest, should I buy silver? What fund do I buy?"
— Radhika Gupta (@iRadhikaGupta) February 9, 2026
I am seeing a lot more friends, family, and folks in general reach out for advice on their portfolio in the last few months. It is probably because volatility is so high across asset classes, returns over the…
Gupta highlighted the importance of financial literacy, noting that many individuals are eager to invest in funds without understanding the fundamentals of personal finance. Comparing this to “diving before learning how to breathe”, Gupta encouraged beginners to first educate themselves, suggesting that introductory resources can help build a foundation before committing money.
ALSO READ: PF Withdrawals Via ATMs To Be Enabled From April, Say Labour Ministry Sources
“Please educate yourself on the basics. Too many people want to buy funds, before learning basic finance. Diving before learning how to breathe. Not a book plug, but if you need a starting place, our book Mango Millionaire is a good one,” she suggested.
Gupta also advised investors to create a personal investment statement, documenting their income and expenses, existing investments and liabilities, financial goals and timelines, and their risk tolerance.
She also underlined the importance of expert guidance.
“Please go talk to a good personal finance professional - either MFD (mutual fund distributor) or investment advisor. Take this document to them as a starting point. Talk to multiple folks if you want, and then find someone you are comfortable with.”
Gupta also warned against rushing into complex or high-commitment decisions, such as building a direct stock portfolio, investing in commodities like silver, or opting for portfolio management services. “All of this can wait till you find your feet,” she noted.
Addressing fears around mistakes, Gupta struck a reassuring tone.
“If you haven't started, start. If you have started and made mistakes, relax. Everyone does. The financial crisis of 2008 was caused by some very smart people making mistakes. You are allowed a few too. Relax, reflect and learn,” she said.
Gupta concluded the post by saying, “Market corrections are a bit like board exams... Painful, but extraordinary teachers. Pay the tuition fee, and move forward.”
The post has generated several reactions. One user said, “Self-assessment is key before diving into advice—it's like building a strong foundation amid volatility. Loved the exam analogy for market dips; it's all about learning and resilience.”
Absolutely agree, @iRadhikaGupta ma'am.
— Market_Node (@Market_Node_) February 9, 2026
Self-assessment is key before diving into advice—it's like building a strong foundation amid volatility. Loved the exam analogy for market dips; it's all about learning and resilience.
What's one common mistake you've seen veterans make…
Another comment read, “The 'Board Exam' analogy is perfect, but I'd add that unlike school, the market doesn't have a fixed syllabus.”
The 'Board Exam' analogy is perfect, but I'd add that unlike school, the market doesn't have a fixed syllabus.
— Aditya Garg ???????? (@Garg_Aditya_) February 9, 2026
The 'Personal Investment Statement' (Point 2) is often the only constant in a chaotic environment.
It's surprising how many seasoned portfolios fail not because of…
In another post recently, Gupta also emphasised the importance of staying away from the fear of missing out (FOMO).
“The moves across equities, debt and commodities over the last month have been a real test of patience and the ability to stay calm in a storm. Those who have kept away from FOMO - positive and negative, watched a little less news, and stuck to their allocations will do well. Action is more expensive than we imagine,” she said.
Essential Business Intelligence, Continuous LIVE TV, Sharp Market Insights, Practical Personal Finance Advice and Latest Stories — On NDTV Profit.
