In this episode, we provide NRIs with valuable insights into personal finance, career decisions, and living abroad. Featuring Manas Sharma, a product manager at Grab, we discuss his professional journey and why he moved to Singapore, alongside his future academic plans in the U.S. Explore the financial challenges and opportunities NRIs face, including the benefits of pursuing an MBA in the U.S., and discover how to balance skills and career advancements with smart financial planning. Delve into the quality of life in Singapore, compare it with India, and get practical tips on community engagement and managing living expenses. Additionally, learn about the FIRE (Financial Independence Retire Early) movement and how NRIs can achieve financial independence through tech innovations and side projects. This episode, packed with expert advice and practical solutions, is tailored to help NRIs navigate their professional and personal journeys effectively. #chaipekharcha #youth #nri #mba #singapore #usa 00:00 Career Choices: Cash Out or Invest in New Skills? 00:57 Introduction to Chai Pe Kharcha and Guest Manas Sharma 01:48 Manas Sharma's Journey to Becoming an NRI in Singapore 03:39 Quality of Life: Comparing India and Singapore 07:21 Top Reasons to Love Life in Singapore 10:03 Cost of Living in Singapore 12:35 Why Pursue an MBA in the US? 14:44 Builder Mentality to Broader Perspectives 15:29 Innovation in the U.S. vs. the World 19:27 Financial Justification for an MBA 22:32 Financial Independence and Early Retirement (FIRE) 25:10 Micro Startups and Passive Income 29:04 Final Thoughts and Farewell

In this episode of Chai Pe Kharcha, we chat with Abhilash Surendran, a seasoned NRI now residing in London, about his personal and professional journey across Asia and Europe. Abhilash shares practical insights on navigating financial decision-making as an NRI, touching on salary expectations, cost differences between cities like Singapore and London, and the importance of financial independence and early retirement planning (FIRE). Listen as he discusses cultural immersions from his extensive travels, the importance of slow travel, and offers advice on integrating into new environments. The episode covers the nuances of living in high-cost cities and planning for a financially secure future while adjusting to different cultural and geographic settings. Learn from Abhilash's experiences and the steps he's taking towards achieving a balanced, financially-independent lifestyle. #chaipekharcha #nri #london #singapore #travel #fire 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 01:00 Abhilash's NRI Journey 03:27 Life in London vs. Singapore 07:46 Navigating Housing and Transportation in London 15:13 Cost of Living in the UK 23:33 Visa Systems and Immigration Insights 28:44 Cultural Integration in London 29:23 Introduction to FIRE and Early Mistakes 30:10 Taking a Career Break for Travel 31:59 Key Principles for Financial Independence 34:34 Advice for Young Travelers 35:26 Reflections on Career and Life Choices 40:21 Financial Planning and Investments 45:48 Living Expenses and Retirement in Kerala 49:15 Investment Strategies and ESOPs 53:11 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of Chai Pe Kharcha, we have a unique couple as guests, Rohan and Akansha, to discuss their experiences living in Australia. As Immigrants, they share insights into the high quality of life, clean environment, and the welcoming culture they've found in Australia, while also discussing the practicalities of cost of living, tax systems, and financial planning. Focusing deeply on topics like healthcare, daycare costs, housing, and investment strategies, they offer a comprehensive view of transitioning to life in Australia and how it markedly contrasts with potential alternatives. Whether for those pursuing NRIs' relocation or interested in personal finance management abroad, Rohan and Akansha provide valuable perspectives on global mobility, investment decisions, and achieving a balanced, fulfilling lifestyle as NRIs. #chaipekharcha #australia #immigration #personalfinance #couple 00:00 Introduction and Quality of Life in Australia 00:22 Meet the Guests: Rohan and Akansha 01:07 Backgrounds and Journey to Australia 04:01 Life in Australia: Initial Experiences 04:56 Comparing Australia and Singapore 05:59 Deciding to Move to Australia 07:29 Settling in Australia: Work and Lifestyle 12:52 Healthcare and Education Benefits 16:53 Cost of Living in Australia 30:18 Effective Saving Percentages 30:46 Tax Rates and Household Savings 31:40 Investment Strategies and Real Estate 34:45 Financial Goals and Automation 37:48 Investment Portfolio Breakdown 44:08 Challenges of Investing in India 46:48 Living in Australia: Quality of Life 51:18 Career Opportunities in Australia 56:36 Retirement and Financial Independence 01:00:16 Conclusion and Final Thoughts