Investor Stories: Apoorva

Originally from India, Apoorva now calls Lower Hutt, Wellington, home. By day, he manages a retail store, but when he’s not working, you’ll find him unwinding with a paintbrush in hand or diving into investment articles. Apoorva’s committed to building a secure financial future for himself and his family.

Keep scrolling to hear about Apoorva’s investment journey, the lessons he’s learned along the way, and how he’s using Kernel to achieve his goals.

Apoorva’s first foray into investing began back in 2000 in India. Without access to a personal computer, he would visit cyber cafes to research and invest in managed funds. At the time, his salary was modest, but he made it a priority to set aside 5-10% of his income for investments.

It was a friend who first introduced him to managed funds, sparking his curiosity and leading him to discover the power of compounding. Over the years, Apoorva steadily built wealth, staying debt-free apart from his mortgage.

For Apoorva, the ‘why’ behind his investing is simple: he’s working towards a secure retirement, paying off his mortgage faster, and ensuring his daughter has access to a quality education.

These goals keep him focused and motivated to stick to his plan.

Apoorva’s investment philosophy is inspired by Warren Buffett’s advice that most active managers don’t outperform the market. This led him to focus on ETFs and Index Funds, which offer low fees and a simple, market-following strategy.

When Apoorva discovered Kernel, he was impressed by the platform’s transparency and ease of use.

“The website is so easy to navigate, and I love how clearly each fund is explained,”

he says. “It’s refreshing to see that level of transparency.”

Apoorva describes himself as a consistent and patient investor.

His Kernel portfolio is focused on the Global 100 fund, which provides total market exposure, while his other investments outside of KiwiSaver include three Vanguard ETFs: S&P 500, Growth ETF, and Information Technology ETF.

“I’ve learned that it’s time in the market, not timing the market, that matters most,”

he says. “I prefer index funds because they’re simple and saves me the stress of picking individual stocks.”

Having moved to New Zealand at the age of 29, Apoorva embraced the importance of regular, small contributions to his investments. He believes in the long-term growth of the market and the magic of compounding.

“I’m not great at picking individual stocks - I get too worried when they drop,” he admits.

“Index funds are my go-to because they let me stay consistent and focused on the bigger picture.”

Over the years, Apoorva has learned three key lessons about investing:

1. Patience is essential

2. Consistency pays off

3. Long-term thinking always wins

Apoorva’s advice to new investors is simple: just get started.

“The earlier you start, the more time you have to let compounding work its magic,” he says.

“Be patient, invest in what you understand, and don’t rush into decisions. Take the time to do your own research and focus on your goals.”

Looking at today’s economic situation and inflation, with rising prices for groceries, taxes, council rates, and other essentials, Apoorva acknowledges how difficult it can be to get ahead.

“There aren’t many salary increases these days, so I really hope young people start early and do a few key things,” he says.

His suggestions:

1. Learn the difference between needs and wants

2. Make mindful spending a habit

3. Start investing as early as possible, even in small amounts

4. Stay consistent, no matter what the market is doing

“Saving money starts with thinking twice before making unnecessary purchases,” he adds.

“Build good financial habits now, and your future self will thank you.”