How Millennials, Gen Z Are Redefining Investing In India

A 24-year-old marketing professional in Mumbai stumbled upon a meme about “retiring at 40” while scrolling through Instagram. Intrigued, she clicked on a short video explaining how small monthly investments could grow into substantial wealth over time. That evening, she opened an investment app, set up her first mutual fund systematic investment plan (SIP), and felt an unexpected sense of control over her financial future.

Across India, young investors are increasingly bypassing traditional methods of family advice, bank managers, or in-person brokers and turning to digital platforms, social media, and peer networks for guidance. From meme stocks to mutual funds, fractional shares to crypto, Millennials and Gen Z are reshaping the way investments are made in India.

Says Sanjiv Bajaj, joint chairman and MD, Bajaj Capital: “Millennials and Gen Z are approaching investments with curiosity and a willingness to learn. Unlike previous generations, they are not just following patterns set by their parents. They are experimenting, evaluating, and making informed choices that align with their life goals.”

The Digital Investor: Curiosity Meets Confidence

A 2025 report by Morningstar shows that investors under 35 now account for nearly 40 per cent of new mutual fund SIP accounts in India, up from 25 per cent just five years ago. The rise of intuitive, mobile-first investment platforms has made this possible. With low entry barriers and real-time dashboards, investing has shifted from a formal, intimidating process to an interactive, empowering experience.

Social media amplifies this transformation. Short-form videos and finance influencers now explain concepts like SIPs, equity, or asset allocation in under two minutes. Online communities on Telegram, Discord, and WhatsApp allow young investors to share tips, compare strategies, and learn from each other’s mistakes. Adds Bajaj, “These platforms are creating financial literacy at an unprecedented scale, but they also highlight the need for structured guidance to navigate risks effectively.”

Learning From Memes, Not Mistakes

Digital-first investors see wealth creation as a mix of exploration and education. They experiment with small amounts, try fractional shares, thematic funds, or even global exchange-traded funds (ETFs). Unlike their parents who relied heavily on fixed deposits or gold, today’s investors balance risk and growth with greater awareness.

However, enthusiasm can sometimes outpace understanding. Many first-time investors underestimate volatility or chase hype-driven trends.

“Digital platforms are enablers, not substitutes for financial wisdom. Young investors must balance curiosity with caution, blending innovation with fundamentals,” adds Bajaj.

Financial institutions are responding by tailoring products for this audience: gamified apps, AI-driven recommendations, and educational content designed to simplify complex ideas. By meeting young investors where they are online, mobile-first, and interactive, these institutions are building a bridge between digital convenience and disciplined investing.

The future of investing in India is digital, informed, and flexible. While tools and trends may evolve, the timeless principles remain the same – start early, diversify, and stay disciplined. By embracing technology, learning continuously, and seeking expert guidance, young investors can turn small beginnings into lasting wealth. In making investing approachable and even fun, young Indians aren’t just redefining wealth, they are reshaping India’s financial future.