New plan for Indians who sweat abroad
The investment pattern of Indians (NRIs) working in Gulf countries is changing rapidly. Till now buying land or flat in India used to be their first choice, but now a big change is being seen in this trend. According to the report of 'Equirus Wealth', NRIs living in Gulf are now moving their money from Indian real estate to stock market and mutual funds.
Lost attachment to property, increased trust in stock market
In April 2026, a large survey was conducted among 8,300 NRIs from UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and other Gulf countries. Statistics show that 73 percent investors have increased their investments in the Indian stock market and mutual funds. On the contrary, 40 per cent of NRIs are reducing their exposure to real estate. The report considers it 'the defining trade' of the investment world. This simply means that now people are giving preference to financial portfolio instead of physical assets (bricks and stones). Apart from this, 43 percent people have also invested money in fixed deposits (FD) and debt funds, while 28 percent have increased investment in gold.
Turbulence in the world, but no panic among investors
The impact of the geopolitical tension going on at the global level is clearly visible on the decisions of investors. 83 percent of the people surveyed admitted that global developments are influencing their financial decisions. Regional instability is the biggest risk for 41 percent investors, while 23 percent are worried about rising inflation. However, despite this uncertainty, there is no panic or 'panic selling' in the market. Investors have become quite disciplined. They are cutting down on their expenses, increasing savings (35%) and moving towards safer investment options. Interestingly, only 12 percent people are afraid of losing their jobs, which shows that their income is secure at the moment.
Now there is no compulsion, money is coming home for profit
Earlier, the main purpose of remittances sent from Gulf to India was to meet the family expenses. But now this mathematics has completely changed. Now 27 percent of remittances are being sent purely for investment and 22 percent for retirement planning. The share of money sent for family expenses is now only 26 percent. When it comes to new investment, the first choice of 42 percent people is the Indian stock market. After this comes fixed income products and gold.
What does this mean for investors?
One thing is clear from this whole trend that Indians sitting on foreign soil have unwavering faith in India's economic progress. Despite the ongoing uncertainties around the world, 75 percent of Gulf NRIs are continuously investing. Instead of waiting for market stability, they are positioning themselves as long-term investors. It is also a signal to common investors that it is safer and more profitable to plan through structured financial instruments rather than just locking up capital in illiquid assets like property.
-
Inside Tess Daly and Vernon Kay's 'tearful' split after 22 years
-
Building society launches 'market-leading' 4.56% interest Cash ISA
-
Royal author makes bizarre Queen Camilla claim
-
Ex-Premier League chief explains Man City's 115 PL charges delay - 'I question that'
-
UK engineering company plunges into administration - in business since 1964
