Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd., India’s leading packaged drinking water company, has been conferred with the prestigious Mahatma Award 2025 under the category of CSR Excellence – Waste and Material Productivity. The award recognises Bisleri’s commitment towards building a circular economy and driving large-scale impact through its sustainability initiatives. This year, the Mahatma Award received over 2,100 entries, of which 265 organisations were shortlisted, and only 90 winners were recognized across diverse categories.

Bisleri International Wins Mahatma Awards 2025 in Waste & Material Productivity

The award ceremony was graced by distinguished guests including Dr. Kiran Bedi, Former Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry and India’s first woman IPS officer, as the Chief Guest, along with Guests of Honour Mr. A. Annamalai, Director, National Gandhi Museum – New Delhi.

The Mahatma Award, the highest honor in the realm of social impact, draws its inspiration from the life and principles of Mahatma Gandhi. Embodying the spirit of his enduring legacy, this prestigious award recognizes and celebrates individuals and organizations that are catalysts for positive change, dedicating their efforts to making the world a better place. Recipients of the Mahatma Award are changemakers and visionaries who exemplify Gandhis ideals through their transformative work. Instituted by Gandhian and lawyer Mr. Amit Sachdeva and supported by Ms. Rajashree Birla of the Aditya Birla Group.

On receiving this prestigious recognition, Mr Angelo George, CEO, Bisleri International, said, “It is a great honour to receive the Mahatma Award on behalf of Bisleri. This recognition is not just for us, but for every partner and community member who has walked with us on our sustainability journey. Inspired by Gandhiji’s values, we are committed to promoting responsible choices and advancing the circular economy through the Bisleri Greener Promise. This award is dedicated to the entire Bisleri team, whose passion drives our purpose every day, and to the communities that inspire us to keep building a greener, more sustainable India.”

Bisleri was recognised for its flagship programme, Bisleri Greener Promise, which promotes plastic circularity, water conservation, waste segregation, and responsible recycling. Through active engagement with housing societies, schools, corporates, and civic authorities across India, the programme fosters responsible consumption and drives innovation for a greener, more sustainable future.

About Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd.

With a legacy of over 50 years, Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd has grown to become one of the largest premium beverage businesses in India. Being the makers of the countrys largest-selling packaged drinking water, Bisleri follows a stringent process of 114 quality tests and a 10-stage purification. It remains true to its core value of providing consumers with pure, safe and healthy water.

Bisleri International has a strong presence with 128 operational plants and a robust distribution network of over 6,000 Distributors and 7,500 Distribution Trucks across India and UAE market. It offers a range of beverages that are produced for all occasions. Whether it is the promise of goodness, trust, and purity with Bisleri packaged drinking water, or a daily dose of health offered through Vedica Himalayan Spring Water. Besides, Bisleri International has ventured into fun-filled refreshments with a diverse range of carbonated drinks available in multiple flavours, such as Bisleri Limonata, Bisleri Rev, Bisleri Spyci Jeera, Bisleri Pop and Bisleri Soda. These Bisleri products are also available on the e-commerce platform – Bisleri@Doorstep. This D2C platform reassures customers that they will receive a safe and uninterrupted supply of their most trusted brand at their doorstep.

The core values of Bisleri International lie in yielding growth and embedding sustainability by being responsible in all aspects of the business. The organization has unveiled Sustainability 2.0 with Bisleri Greener Promise that focuses on creating greener future for all through implementing initiatives under the program of recycling, water conservation and sustainability.

For more information on Bisleri International, our people, brands, and OSR initiatives, visit www.bisleri.com.

Trident Group, one of India’s leading and most diversified business conglomerates, celebrated Values Day with immense enthusiasm and pride at Budhni, reaffirming its unwavering commitment to the core principles that define the organisation – Honesty & Integrity, Teamwork, Customer Satisfaction, and Continuous Growth & Development. The event honoured team members who exemplify these values in their daily work, reflecting Trident’s deep-rooted belief that values are the foundation of its success.

Chairman Emeritus, Padma Shri Rajinder Gupta addressing members through a video message during the Values Day celebrations at Budhni

As the spirit of celebration continues, Trident Group has also begun its grand Diwali festivities at Sanghera, marking the start of a joyous season filled with togetherness and festive cheer.

The much-awaited Trident Diwali Sale has already started at Sanghera, running from 4th to 13th October 2025 between 10:00 AM and 6:00 PM, offering exclusive festive deals on Trident’s premium home and lifestyle products. The sale promises a delightful shopping experience, allowing patrons to bring home the warmth and splendour of Diwali with Trident’s trusted quality.

At Budhni, the Trident Diwali Sale will be held from 8th to 16th October 2025, extending the festive spirit with special offers and exciting experiences for visitors.

Adding to the festive fervour, the Trident Diwali Mela is set to take place from 11th to 14th Oct for Budhni and 11th to 13th Oct for Sanghera. The mela will feature a vibrant mix of cultural performances, local delicacies, artisan stalls, and family entertainment-creating a lively celebration of tradition, creativity, and community spirit.

With a perfect blend of values, festive shopping, cultural experiences, and heartfelt appreciation, Trident’s Diwali Celebrations 2025 stand as a radiant tribute to unity, prosperity, and the enduring spirit of giving.

About Trident Group
Trident Limited is the flagship company of Trident Group, an Indian business conglomerate and global player. Headquartered in Ludhiana, Punjab, Trident Limited is a vertically integrated textile (Yarn, Bath & Bed Linen) and Paper (Wheat Straw-based) manufacturer. Tridents towels, yarns, bedsheets, and paper businesses have earned global recognition and are delighting millions of customers across India and the world. Trident is one of the largest players in home textiles in India.

Supplying national, captive, and retailer-owned brands; the organization is highly decorated with awards from its customers, vendors, and various government entities in recognition of advancing the highest standards in product quality, social responsibility, and environmental stewardship. The company operates in three major business segments: Textiles, Paper, and Chemicals, with its manufacturing facilities in Punjab and Madhya Pradesh.

For more information about Trident Group , please visit www.tridentindia.com.

The Institute of Design at JK Lakshmipat University (JKLU) has won the international Don Norman Design Award (DNDA) 2025 “for transforming learning and cultivating the next generation of humanity-centred designers” through its Bachelor of Design (B.Des) and Master of Design (M.Des) programmes.

The Institute of Design at JK Lakshmipat University (JKLU) has won the international Don Norman Design Award (DNDA) 2025 for its B.Des and M.Des programmes

JKLU’s Institute of Design is the only design institute from India to be selected for this award this year, along with institutions from the USA, Mexico, Hungary, Israel, UK, New Zealand and Brazil.

DNDA recognises education programmes that have demonstrated “excellence in humanity-centred design education” and play a “pivotal role in cultivating a new generation of leaders poised to positively impact the world”.

“Education is the foundation of lasting change. These awardees were selected by our global panel of advisors and judges for exemplifying what it means to design not just for today, but to prepare learners, communities, and future leaders to reimagine tomorrow. Their graduates are doing impactful, innovative, sustainable Humanity-Centered Design (HCD+) work across the globe,” DNDA said in its statement announcing the winners.

The Systems Design programme at Institute of Design, JKLU stood out in this international competition for its innovative pedagogical approach and balance towards systems thinking and community linkages.

DNDA said that the programme was “noted for exemplary faculty guidance, partnership projects and community immersion providing students relevant environments for design integration opportunities.”

“The award jury applauded the programme in preparing students for the real world through an empathic, participatory and co-creative lens germane to humanity-centered design principles,” it added.

Don Norman Design Award was established by Professor Don Norman, a luminary in the world of design with a distinguished career as an author, teacher, founder, advisor, and executive at renowned companies such as Apple and HP.

Sharing his remarks on winning the prestigious award, Professor Vijaysekhar Chellaboina Vice Chancellor, JK Lakshmipat University, said, “The Don Norman Design Award 2025 is a recognition of the importance of the innovative pedagogical approach that the Institute of Design has integrated in its B.Des and M.Des programmes for preparing the next-generation of design leaders who can work collaboratively with communities to find solutions to systemic issues.”

“This is a moment of reckoning. This award validates our systems thinking approach and pedagogy. That we are preparing our students for the real world and keeping them ahead of the curve prove that we are truly future-ready,” said Professor A Balasubramaniam, Director of the Institute of Design at JKLU.

The DNDA 2025 Laureates will be honoured at a ceremony during the DNDA Summit scheduled to be held from November 19-21, 2025 at the Singapore Polytechnic Convention Centre.

BPTP Ltd., a leading real estate developer founded by Kabul Chawla in the Delhi NCR region, proudly sponsored and hosted a six-day-long Deepotsav celebration for its BPTP Astaire Gardens residents, organized in association with the Astaire Garden Pooja Evam Sanskritik Samiti (AGPSS). Held from September 27 to October 2, 2025, the event featured diverse cultural programs, engaging activities, and community bonding moments that brought a festive spirit to residents.

BPTP-sponsored Deepotsav at BPTP Astaire Gardens, celebrated six vibrant days of culture and bagged the Best Pandal Award

The celebration concluded on a high note, with BPTP Astaire Gardens receiving the first prize in the Best Pandal category at the 2025 Gurgaon Sharad Samman Samiti Durga Puja awards, reflecting the community’s cultural vibrancy and creativity.

Deepotsav opened with an inauguration and lamp lighting, followed by daily rituals, cultural performances, quizzes, resident-led programs, and music for all ages. Highlights included Sandhyarati, Dandiya dances, a puppet show, Ram Leela, and the concluding Sindur Khela, which marked the end of Durgotsav.

Astaire Gardens was abuzz with excitement throughout the festival, featuring over 25 food and themed stalls, as well as a dedicated Kids Zone, ensuring a delightful culinary and recreational experience for both families and children. Safety was paramount, with a doctor, two associates, and an on-site ambulance available as part of a doctors help desk, providing reassurance and comfort to all attendees.

Speaking on the success of the event, Mr. Pritam Basak, President, Astaire Garden Pooja Evam Sanskritik Samiti (AGPSS) said, “Deepotsav 2025 was a true celebration of community spirit and cultural pride. We extend our heartfelt thanks to BPTP for their generous sponsorship and unwavering support, which made this event a resounding success. Together, we created an unforgettable experience for our residents, and winning the Best Pandal award is a shared achievement for the entire Astaire Gardens family.”

The festival also hosted a photography competition, inviting younger residents to capture and celebrate the spirit of Deepotsav. Residents also enjoyed a variety of food stalls and dance performances, further enlivening the festive mood.

With Deepotsav 2025, BPTP Astaire Gardens once again proved how modern community living can blend seamlessly with cultural richness and tradition, fostering togetherness and joy in one of Gurgaon’s most vibrant residential addresses.

About BPTP
BPTP is one of India’s most trusted and leading real estate developers, with a strong presence in the Delhi-NCR region. Led by Chairman and MD Kabul Chawla, the company has delivered over 25,000 homes, as well as numerous landmark residential and commercial projects that blend cutting-edge design, modern architecture, and sustainable living solutions. Known for its innovative and customer-centric approach, BPTP continues to redefine urban luxury through future-first development, premium amenities, and a commitment to excellence, transparency, and elegant, efficient living.

Truecaller, the world’s leading communications platform, today unveiled adVantage, an AI-powered recommendation engine that redefines how businesses engage users in high-attention communication moments. adVantage leverages a centralized intelligence hub that continuously learns from user interactions, refining its outputs to foster deeper engagement and stronger business outcomes. It can work across Business Messaging, contextual advertising and various other enterprise-grade solutions, empowering brands to deliver the right message with precision and impact.

Truecaller Announces adVantage: An AI-Platform Driving Smarter Segmentation and Higher Performance

adVantage is powered by a unique, daily stream of insights from Truecaller’s vast ecosystem. By harnessing real-time behavioral intelligence and advanced recommendation models, it delivers personalized, privacy-safe experiences with data that is anonymized and aggregated, ensuring that every ad or offer is far more relevant.

For consumers, this means greater trust and relevance, as they engage only with communications that matter to them. For businesses, adVantage is an AI-powered advisor, helping reach the right audiences, unlocks new revenue opportunities and uncovers actionable insights that sharpen day-to-day decision-making. The outcome is a smarter, more effective way to align customer engagement with business growth.

Speaking on the launch, Rishit Jhunjhunwala, Global CEO of Truecaller, said, “In a world moving away from broad targeting, relevance is the new currency. adVantage is our answer to the market’s need for smarter, privacy-compliant personalization. It’s not just about reaching users, it’s about understanding their unique needs and providing value through every interaction.This framework is a core pillar of our strategy: to build scalable internal growth engines and redefine how businesses create value.”

After a successful testing phase within Truecaller’s ads business, where it consistently delivered higher engagement and stronger ROI benchmarks, adVantage is now being rolled out for additional use cases. One such vertical is Truecaller’s business messaging platform, which saw open rates jump by 400% during initial testing.

The three modules of adVantage: Discover, Engage, and Perform, adjust automatically, making it simpler to reach the right users, keep them interested, and drive results.

• Discover: Expands your reach by finding new, relevant audience segments and increasing your visibility across the Truecaller platform.

• Engage: Boosts mid-funnel performance by re-targeting users who have shown interest and guides them toward a purchase.

• Perform: AI optimization drives key outcomes like lead generation, app installs, and direct commerce transactions. You get tangible business results – automatically.
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In its pilot phase, the framework delivered impressive results for clients, driving up to a 50% lift in click-through rates and reaching over 200 million users. Performance gains were particularly strong across high-intent sectors such as automotive, fintech, edtech, and e-commerce. By combining precision-led audience discovery with AI-driven insights, these campaigns successfully converted brand awareness into measurable business outcomes consistently surpassing internal benchmarks.

“At its core, Truecaller adVantage is about giving businesses a real edge,” said Liniker Seixas, adVantage Lead at Truecaller.“We’ve built a sophisticated platform powered by multiple AI models working in concert to continuously learn and improve. This empowers businesses to dynamically optimize decision-making, enhance efficiency, and drive stronger outcomes, ensuring every investment delivers greater impact.”

adVantage will serve as a cornerstone for our partners growth strategies. By harnessing Truecaller’s powerful ecosystem and intelligence, businesses can unlock greater value across their customer journeys whether that means reaching the right audience, strengthening engagement, or accelerating conversions.

About Truecaller
Truecaller is an essential part of everyday communication for over 450 million active users, with more than a billion downloads since launch and close to 56 billion unwanted calls identified and blocked in 2024 alone. The company has been headquartered in Stockholm since 2009 and has been publicly listed on Nasdaq Stockholm since October 2021. Visit www.truecaller.com for more information.

Twenty years ago, KaarTech was just a vision. What began as the dream of four friends has today grown into a powerhouse with a presence in more than 15+ global locations, partnering with over 450+ customers globally, delivering 3,300+ successful projects and powered by 2,500+ employees across diverse sectors. Along the way, KaarTech has earned recognition as a Great Place to Work for the 4^th time, reflecting its commitment to building a culture where client success and employee growth thrive together.

KaarTech Celebrates 20 Years of Digital Transformation

Reflecting on this milestone, Maran Nagarajan, Global CEO & Founder of KaarTech, said, “At KaarTech, our vision has always been to go beyond being just a service provider. We aspire to be a dependable and trusted partner that creates lasting value for all. Our enduring mission is to remain a socially responsible corporate entity that instills pride, joy and accomplishment in every interaction with customers, employees, stakeholders and society, and we are committed to upholding it forever.”

This vision came to life at the company’s annual leadership meeting, “Kaar Infinite“, a celebration that reflects the belief that growth, ambition and progress truly have no limits. The three-day summit brought together more than 200 leaders from 6 countries for an experience of inspiration and recognition. The program opened with cultural performances, celebrated achievements, honoured over 150 employees across multiple categories and launched the company’s first Coffee Table Book – a reflection of its values, milestones and the spirit of collaboration that defines KaarTech. Highlights also included CEO’s keynote and an innovative IPO pitching game, Flight 2027, that showcased the entrepreneurial energy within the organization. At its core, “Kaar Infinite” was a heartfelt tribute to the four friends turned founders – Maran Nagarajan, Ratnakumar Nagarajan, Gaurdian George and Selva Kumaran, whose trust, vision and relentless pursuit of excellence have shaped KaarTech into the global enterprise it is today.

As KaarTech looks to the future, the focus is clear. In the near term, the company aims to move toward a public listing, a bold milestone in its growth journey. Yet beyond numbers, the founders’ dream is to build KaarTech into an enduring institution, one that goes beyond quarterly results and stands as a beacon of resilience, dependability and trust. This is not just about growth but about creating something timeless that will continue to deliver pride, purpose and value for generations to come!

It has never been easier to spend or invest money. Today, anyone can buy sneakers, transfer money, or trade stocks with a single tap. For Gen Z, who have grown up in this instant-access world, the pull is even stronger. Social media platforms amplify this access: short videos promise “overnight riches,” influencers showcase quick wins and peer groups reinforce the idea that if you’re not participating, you are being left behind.

Mitul Mehta- Co-founder of National Finance Olympiad

This mix of instant technology, social influence, and youthful curiosity is powerful but risky. The challenge for today’s parents, teachers, and young people is that financial decisions made in seconds can have consequences lasting years. That’s why understanding the balance between FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) and fundamentals has become critical.

1. The Digital Landscape and the Rise of FOMO

Today, buying, spending, or even investing money is effortless. With UPI, Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL), and one-click investing apps, financial decisions happen in seconds. This convenience is universal, but for Gen Z, who have grown up in a world of instant notifications and swipe-to-buy, it creates a unique challenge: the temptation to act before thinking.

Social media makes this even more acute. Platforms like Instagram and YouTube are filled with “hot tips” and stories of overnight success. According to the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority, 85% of young investors say social media influences their choices, and two-thirds act within 24 hours of seeing content. The sense of “everyone is doing it” pushes many to jump in, whether it’s buying a trending product or investing in a volatile stock.

Social influence shapes consumer impulse. Research shows that peer influence on social media, combined with targeted ads, is significantly linked to young people’s impulsive purchases, i.e. when someone sees a friend making a purchase, they are more likely to replicate that behaviour.

In India, the consequences are stark: SEBI’s analysis shows that 93% of retail traders in derivatives lost money between FY22-FY24, with combined losses of over INR 1.8 lakh crore. Many of these traders were young, first-time participants drawn in by the ease of trading apps and the promise of quick gains.

2. The Formula-Driven Choices Gen Z Are Making

For many young people, financial decisions are increasingly shaped by formula shortcuts that promise clarity in a complex world. On social media, money often gets reduced to quick equations: “double your money in 30 days” or “make 5% every week.” These catchy rules of thumb spread quickly through YouTube shorts and Instagram reels, creating the illusion that wealth can be built by simply following a set pattern. Some influencers even share ready-made spreadsheets and templates, which make investing look as easy as plugging numbers into a formula, though the underlying risks remain hidden.

Technology reinforces this mindset. Copy-trading platforms allow users to mimic the moves of other investors, often without understanding the companies or assets involved. Automated bots and signal providers on platforms like Telegram and Discord offer “buy” and “sell” instructions that look like precise formulas, but in reality operate on opaque logic. Even mainstream apps encourage formula-driven behaviour by promoting lists such as “top gainers of the day,” nudging users toward fast, momentum-based decisions rather than careful analysis.

Finally, one of the most pervasive formulas isn’t written down at all: the silent assumption that “everyone else is doing it.” When peers buy a trending product, invest in the same coin, or follow the same influencer’s tips, it creates a herd mentality disguised as strategy. Viral slogans like “invest INR 100 daily and retire at 30” further simplify a complex reality into something that feels achievable, even though they overlook factors like inflation, risk, and market volatility.

3. The Fundamentals Gen Z Needs to Learn

Formulas and shortcuts may look appealing, but the real foundation of financial security lies in a few timeless principles.

Budgeting comes first. Even a simple plan to divide income between needs, wants, and savings prevents overspending and reliance on credit. Equally important is grasping the relationship between risk and return. High returns are often dangled in front of Gen Z, whether through fast-moving crypto coins or high-leverage trading opportunities.

Compounding is often misunderstood, especially when social media reduces it to slogans like “invest INR 100 daily and retire at 30.” The truth is less flashy but far more powerful. Compounding works not by making you rich overnight, but by steadily multiplying small, consistent contributions over long periods.

For example, investing INR 1,000 a month at 10% annual return adds up to INR 1.2 lakh in cash contributions over 10 years, but grows to about INR 2.1 lakh with compounding. Extend that to 30 years, and the same contribution totals INR 3.6 lakh, yet the portfolio grows beyond INR 20 lakh. The gap between what you put in and what you end up with is the quiet magic of time and patience is something no shortcut or viral formula can replicate.

Finally, diversification ensures resilience. Spreading money across assets like stocks, bonds and deposits protects against failure in any one area. While hype encourages “all-in” bets, diversification builds stability. These fundamentals usually won’t make headlines, but they create lasting confidence and security in ways formulas never can.

“FOMO feeds on speed, but wealth grows with patience. For Gen Z, the real power lies not in chasing what’s trending, but in understanding the fundamentals that compound over time.”

Why Financial Literacy Matters More Than Ever

Technology will only make financial choices faster and easier in the years ahead. By 2030, India’s retail digital payments market alone is projected to double and reach USD 7 trillion annually. This means tomorrow’s adults will make more financial decisions by the age of 25 than many of their parents did by 40.

In such a landscape, FOMO is not just a passing teenage impulse; it could become a defining risk factor for an entire generation. But the antidote remains the same: strong fundamentals, taught early and reinforced often. Financial literacy gives young people the tools to pause, to question, and to chart their own path rather than follow the crowd.

Duville Estates Private Limited, a distinguished name in Indian real estate and the developer of the landmark 31-acre Riverdale micro-township in Kharadi, Pune, has been recognised with two prestigious honours at The Times Realty Icon 2025 Awards. The company received the award for Excellence in Luxury Living and was also honoured with Iconic Luxury Residential Project (Ongoing) for its flagship project, Riverdale Grand.

Mr. Tushad B. Dubash, Director, Duville Estates Pvt. Ltd.

Hosted by The Times of India, the Times Realty Icon Awards recognise developers and projects that demonstrate innovation, vision, and excellence in design, sustainability, and customer experience. The 2025 edition, held in Pune, brought together the nation’s leading builders and industry stakeholders to honour outstanding achievements in the sector.

Riverdale Grand, an ongoing luxury residential project within the Riverdale township, embodies contemporary design, a host of amenities, and expansive green spaces along the riverfront. The project has set a benchmark for modern luxury living in Pune with its integration of smart-home technology, eco-conscious features, and community-focused planning.

Speaking on the recognition, Mr. Tushad B. Dubash, Director, Duville Estates Pvt. Ltd., said, “These honours at the Times Realty Icon Awards 2025 are a reflection of our constant effort to deliver developments that blend design, sustainability and community living. Riverdale Grand represents the kind of modern luxury we aim to create – thoughtful, responsible, and future-ready. We are pleased that our work has been recognised within the industry, and this recognition encourages us to continue raising the bar for residential living in Pune.”

By blending innovation with integrity and design excellence, Duville Estates continues to shape Pune’s urban landscape, creating residential communities that set new standards for quality, sustainability, and responsible living, a commitment reflected in more detail at www.duville.com.

About Duville Estates
Duville Estates is a renowned real estate developer operating in Mumbai and Pune, with a legacy dating back to 1810. Recognized for delivering high-quality residential and commercial properties, the company is committed to redefining urban living through exceptional building design, modern amenities, and a customer-first approach.

Driven by the core values of ethics, trust and transparency, Duville Estates focuses on creating strategically planned developments with zero-wastage apartment layouts that consistently exceed customer expectations. Its flagship 31-acre micro-township, Riverdale, exemplifies this vision with completed projects such as Riverdale Heights, Riverdale Residences, and Riverdale Suites, as well as upcoming projects like Riverdale Grove and Riverdale Grand.

A pioneer in sustainable living, Riverdale Grand has been awarded Platinum Certification by GEM (Green Energy Management), the highest green building certification making it one of the very few Five-Star Pre-Certified residential projects in Pune.

People often prefer immediate rewards over larger benefits in the future, a tendency known as present bias. Even when aware of long-term gains, they may prioritise short-term needs over future goals. This behavioural tendency can lead investors to postpone financial decisions, waiting for what they consider the ‘perfect’ time to invest.

Understanding the effects of present bias

In the process, they risk missing time in the market-time that could have helped their money potentially grow steadily.

Understanding how present bias influences decisions may help investors reflect on their financial habits and take more balanced steps towards their goals.

What is present bias

Present bias is when an individual is more focused on present rewards rather than potential future outcomes. In investing, present bias means that investors would rather spend money today than invest it for returns that may come over a period.

For example, an investor might postpone setting aside Rs. 5,000 per month in a mutual fund because they prefer to spend it on present consumption. Over time, however, this delay may cause them to miss out on the potential growth of their investments. Since investing early allows compounding to work for longer periods, postponing it can have an important effect on long-term outcomes.

Why investors delay investing

Here are some reasons why some people may put off or delay investing:

Preference for immediate gratification

Immediate gratification can often feel more rewarding than fulfilling a long-term commitment. For instance, buying new gadgets or spending on new experiences may feel more fulfilling than sticking to a consistent investment plan that may show results over a period. Present bias magnifies this preference, making it harder to start investing.

Uncertainty about the future

The uncertainty of what may happen in the future may also discourage investors from planning ahead. Some may feel that they can always start investing later when they are more settled. However, this mindset can diminish the potential benefits of investing.

Fear of market fluctuations

For novice investors, market fluctuations may feel intimidating. Present bias can amplify this fear, as investors give more importance to the possibility of short-term losses than the potential for long-term growth. This may lead to them postponing investing until they feel the market is more suitable for participation.

Procrastination and lack of urgency

A lack of urgency can push investors to delay their investment decisions. Investing often requires time, attention and making crucial decisions. For many, this may mean that they take longer to make certain decisions. Hence, investment decisions may take a back seat in an investor’s mind. Present bias may strengthen this procrastination, leading investors to delay setting up an SIP or a lumpsum investment.

The cost of delaying investments

Delaying investments means missing out on the potential benefits of compounding. Compounding happens when the returns generated on an investment generate further returns over time. Even a few years’ delay may result in a potentially smaller corpus at the end of the investment horizon.

For example, if one investor starts contributing Rs. 5,000 per month at age 25 and another begins at age 30, and both invest until age 55, the earlier investor may end up with a larger corpus even though the monthly contribution is the same. The difference is because the one who began investing earlier gave their investments more time to potentially grow through compounding.

Ways to overcome present bias in investing

Although present bias is natural in an investor’s journey, individuals can take certain steps to manage it and begin investing sooner.

Starting small with an SIP: A Systematic Investment Plan allows investors to contribute small amounts regularly. Over time, investors may choose to increase their investment amount or step up their SIP as their income increases.

Linking investments to goals: When investors link investments to specific goals, they may strengthen their commitment. This is because when they tie their investments to meaningful outcomes, the motivation may increase, potentially reducing the effect of present bias.

Automating contributions: Automating contributions can help investors set aside money before they can spend it. For instance, setting up an automatic SIP can help investors remain consistent without having to take a fresh decision every month.

Focusing on the long term: While short-term market fluctuations might seem significant, long-term participation in mutual funds may help reduce their impact. Hence, having a long-term perspective may help investors reduce the effects of present bias.

Seeking professional guidance: Sometimes, consulting a financial advisor may help investors identify suitable options based on their preferences. With proper guidance, they may feel more confident about taking the first step.

Using tools to plan investments

Online tools such as compound interest calculators may help investors estimate how their money may potentially grow over time. By seeing the possible difference between starting now and delaying by a few years, investors can gain perspective on the effect of present bias. However, investors must note that the calculator is an aid, not a prediction tool. It may provide only an indicative picture.

Applying the InQuBe philosophy
Bajaj Finserv AMC’s InQuBe philosophy recognises that investor behaviour can influence financial decisions. By combining careful analysis, structured information, and insights into market behaviour, InQuBe aims to provide a framework that supports more thoughtful and disciplined investing. In the context of present bias, this approach can help investors focus on long-term objectives, avoid postponing decisions, and maintain consistency in their investment journey.

Conclusion

Present bias often makes investors delay investing, as they focus more on immediate needs and less on long-term goals. However, recognising this tendency is the first step toward overcoming it. Starting small, linking investments to personal goals, and using tools like SIPs can help build consistent habits. While the future remains uncertain, early and disciplined investing may create a potentially more stable financial foundation. By becoming aware of behavioural patterns, investors can take more balanced decisions that align with their long-term objectives.

Mutual Fund investments are subject to market risks, read all scheme related documents carefully.