All posts by Manvi Agarwal

About Manvi Agarwal

A Wealth Experience Manager for UpperCrust Wealth Pvt. Ltd. A person with a blend of creativity and emotions, who loves to discover new work angles.

Our First Train Journey: A Tale of Adventure and Bonding

Our First Train Journey: A Tale of Adventure and Bonding

11 June 2024 3 min read

Embarking on our first train journey with my two sons was a mix of excitement and trepidation. My eldest, a sprightly 7-year-old, was brimming with enthusiasm, ready to explore every corner of the train. On the other hand, my youngest, just 5 months old, was embarking on his first big adventure outside the comforts of home. As we boarded the train, a wave of emotions washed over me – a blend of anticipation, anxiety, and a touch of wonder at what lay ahead.

From the moment the train lurched forward, my 7-year-old transformed into the responsible big brother I always knew he could be. His eyes sparkled with a sense of duty as he took on the role of a mini guardian for his baby brother. He was by my side, eager to assist, whether it was fetching the diaper bag or ensuring his little brother’s pacifier was always within reach.

However, the journey was not without its challenges. As the rhythmic clatter of the train became a constant backdrop, my newborn started to get cranky. The unfamiliar surroundings, the new sounds, and the jostling of the train made him uneasy. His small cries quickly turned into wails, drawing the sympathetic glances of fellow passengers.

Despite the growing discomfort, I took a deep breath and managed to stay calm. My years of motherly experience kicked in, and I knew that my composure would help soothe my baby. With a gentle sway and a soft hum, I rocked him in my arms, my heart full of love and patience. I kept a reassuring smile on my face, knowing that my older son was watching and learning from every moment.

To my amazement, my 7-year-old stepped up in ways I had not anticipated. He took on the task of preparing his baby brother’s milk bottles with the seriousness of a seasoned caregiver. Carefully measuring the formula, shaking the bottle until it was perfectly mixed, and testing the temperature with a tentative touch, he was determined to make everything just right.

When the baby continued to fuss, his big brother became the entertainer. He made funny faces, played peek-a-boo, and even sang silly songs, all in an effort to calm his sibling. The sight of my eldest son tenderly caring for his little brother filled me with immense pride and gratitude. His actions were a testament to the bond they shared, one that was growing stronger with each passing mile.

There were moments during the journey when fatigue threatened to overwhelm me. Balancing the needs of a newborn with the curiosity and energy of a 7-year-old was no small feat. Yet, I found strength in the love and support that flowed between us. My eldest’s responsible nature and eagerness to help lightened my load significantly. He became my right hand, offering a helping hand or a comforting word whenever I needed it.

As the train journeyed through scenic landscapes, from bustling cities to serene countryside, I realized that this trip was more than just a travel experience. It was a bonding adventure, a testament to our family’s resilience and love. We navigated the challenges together, turning moments of crankiness and fatigue into opportunities for growth and connection.

By the time we reached our destination, my newborn had finally settled into a peaceful slumber, his tiny hand clutching his brother’s finger. My 7-year-old, though tired, had a satisfied smile on his face, proud of the role he had played. And I, though exhausted, felt a profound sense of accomplishment and joy. We had made it through our first train journey together, with love, patience, and a lot of teamwork.

In the end, it wasn’t just a journey from one place to another. It was a journey of discovery – discovering the depths of my eldest son’s responsibility, the strength of my own patience, and the unbreakable bond that ties us all together. As I looked at my two sons, I knew that no matter where life took us, we could face any adventure together, with smiles on our faces and love in our hearts.

Patience, calmness, and confidence are the keys to overcome any difficult situation your are in. Motherhood teaches many things and with this journey, I learned that I am not only a new mother but also an example for my older one to learn from.

Celebrating Milestones: UpperCrust Wealth’s Commitment to Sustainability

Celebrating Milestones: UpperCrust Wealth’s Commitment to Sustainability

28 May 2024 2 min read

At UpperCrust Wealth, we believe in celebrating our achievements not only with pride but also with purpose. Recently, we had the honor of reaching a significant milestone in our journey: achieving an Asset Under Management (AUM) of 100 crores in UpperCrust Wealth PMS. To mark this momentous occasion, we embarked on a meaningful celebration that reflected our commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.

Planting trees has always been close to our hearts, symbolizing growth, renewal, and the interconnectedness of all life. Therefore, it was only fitting that we chose to commemorate our achievement by planting 100 trees in two distinct and breathtaking locations: Vaishno Devi, Katra, and Dachigam National Park, Kashmir.

The journey to Vaishno Devi was filled with reverence and gratitude as we planted 79 trees amidst the serene surroundings of this sacred pilgrimage site. Our aim was not only to contribute to the beauty of the landscape but also to honor the spiritual significance of the place and its importance to millions of devotees.

In Dachigam National Park, nestled amidst the majestic Himalayas, we planted 21 trees, each one representing our dedication to preserving the natural treasures of our nation. Dachigam, with its rich biodiversity and stunning vistas, provided the perfect backdrop for our commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable practices.

Our celebration was not just about reaching a financial milestone; it was about acknowledging the support and trust of our clients, partners, and team members who have been instrumental in our success. It was a moment to reflect on the values that drive us and to reaffirm our commitment to making a positive impact, both in the financial realm and beyond.

As we look to the future, we remain steadfast in our mission to provide exceptional financial services while also prioritizing sustainability and social responsibility. Our journey doesn’t end with this milestone; it serves as a stepping stone towards greater heights of achievement and impact.

We invite you to be a part of our journey and in embracing a future where success is measured not only by financial gains but also by the positive change we bring to the world around us. Together, let’s continue to grow, thrive, and make a difference.

Celebrating Milestones: UpperCrust Wealth's Commitment to Sustainability

Hearts United The Unspoken Power of Social Responsibility

Hearts United The Unspoken Power of Social Responsibility

13 October 2023 3 min read

In the hustle and bustle of our lives, amidst the clamor of daily responsibilities, it’s easy to overlook the profound impact of social responsibility. Yet, it’s a force that has the power to melt hearts, unite communities, and uplift humanity in ways we can scarcely imagine.

At its core, social responsibility is a silent promise, a commitment to make the world a better place, not just for ourselves, but for all those who share this planet with us. It’s a recognition that we are not solitary beings but interconnected threads in the grand tapestry of existence. It’s an acknowledgment that every action we take, every decision we make, ripples out and touches the lives of others.

The beauty of social responsibility lies in its ability to bridge divides. It knows no boundaries of race, religion, or nationality. It sees no differences in gender or socioeconomic status. It is a force that can bind us together, regardless of our backgrounds, in the pursuit of a common good.

When we embrace social responsibility, we are reminded that kindness and compassion are universal languages. We learn that a simple act of kindness can be a lifeline for someone in need. Whether it’s helping a neighbor in times of crisis, volunteering at a local shelter, or supporting a charitable cause, every action we take has the potential to touch a heart.

Social responsibility is also a mirror that reflects our values and character. It challenges us to ask profound questions: What kind of world do we want to leave for future generations? What legacy do we wish to create? It calls us to stand for justice, fairness, and the welfare of all, not just the fortunate few.

The heart-melting beauty of social responsibility is witnessed in the countless stories of everyday heroes. These are individuals who selflessly give of their time, resources, and expertise to support those in need. They are the teachers who inspire young minds, the volunteers who rebuild communities after disasters, the healthcare workers who tirelessly care for the sick, and the activists who champion the voiceless.

Moreover, social responsibility is an embrace of sustainability. It reminds us of our duty to safeguard the planet, to preserve its beauty, and to ensure its resources are shared equitably. It’s about making choices that promote a healthier environment, one in which future generations can thrive.

As we look at the world today, with its myriad challenges and uncertainties, the importance of social responsibility becomes ever more evident. It’s the beacon of hope that guides us through the darkest of times. It’s a reminder that, despite our differences, we have the capacity to build a better future together.

Let us not underestimate the heart-melting power of social responsibility. It is a force that has the potential to transform our world, one act of kindness at a time. It reminds us that we are, and always will be, stronger when we stand together in service to others.

In the end, it’s not the grand gestures or the spotlight that define the true essence of social responsibility. It’s the warmth of a smile, the tenderness of a helping hand, and the love we share with those who need it most. So, let us embrace the unspoken power of social responsibility, for in its gentle touch, we discover the melting of our hearts and the awakening of our shared humanity.

At UpperCrust Wealth, we try our best to help society in every way we can. Whether it be big or small. Our recent participation in a noble event initiated by the Sankalp Foundation for raising funds for specially abled children was an honor for us. The sense of contentment comes from helping the one in need, we hope that this event brings a positive impact on the lives of those little creatures who fill our lives with warmth and joy.

Hearts United The Unspoken Power of Social Responsibility

Unveiling the Soul-Connecting Power of Meditation

Unveiling the Soul-Connecting Power of Meditation

09 June 2023 2 min read

In the whirlwind of our fast-paced lives, finding a tranquil oasis for our souls has become more vital than ever. Thankfully, there exists an age-old practice that holds the key to serenity and inner peace—meditation. While the traditional image of meditation might conjure up images of sitting cross-legged on a cushion, eyes closed, it’s important to remember that meditation extends far beyond this singular image. In fact, any work that brings you relaxation, peace, and a deeper connection with your inner self can be considered meditation. Let us embark on a journey to explore the soul-connecting power of meditation in its various forms.

The Art of Stillness

Meditation, in its purest form, is the art of stillness. It allows us to slow down the incessant chatter of our minds and tune in to the subtle rhythms of our bodies and souls. Whether it’s sitting in silence, observing your breath, or finding solace in nature, the act of being fully present in the moment is the essence of meditation. Engaging in any activity that helps you find stillness within, be it painting, gardening, or even taking a leisurely stroll, can serve as a gateway to the profound depths of meditation.

Flowing with Awareness

Have you ever been so engrossed in an activity that you lost track of time? That’s the state of flow, where your mind becomes completely absorbed in the present moment. Flow is a powerful meditative experience that allows you to merge with the task at hand, tapping into a sense of deep fulfillment and connectedness. Whether it’s playing an instrument, writing, cooking, or engaging in sports, any activity that immerses you fully and effortlessly can become a doorway to meditation.

The Sacred Dance of Movement

Movement is a powerful form of meditation that unites the body, mind, and soul. From the graceful movements of Tai Chi and Yoga to the rhythmic flow of dance, physical activities have the ability to ground us in the present moment and cultivate a profound sense of inner awareness. The repetitive motion of walking or jogging can also serve as a moving meditation, allowing you to tune in to the sensations of your body and engage with the world around you.

Nurturing the Senses

Meditation is not limited to the realm of stillness and motion; it encompasses the rich tapestry of our senses as well. Engaging in activities that awaken your senses—such as savoring a delicious meal, listening to soothing music, or relishing the touch of a loved one—can transport you into a state of heightened awareness. By consciously immersing yourself in sensory experiences, you open up the door to a deep connection with your inner self and the world around you.

Cultivating Gratitude and Compassion

In our quest for soul connection, it’s essential to embrace the qualities of gratitude and compassion. Meditation, in all its forms, provides a nurturing space to cultivate these virtues. Taking time each day to reflect on the things you’re grateful for and offering kindness and compassion to yourself and others can foster a profound sense of interconnectedness and harmony within. By incorporating these practices into your daily life, you infuse each moment with the transformative power of meditation.

In a world brimming with distractions and constant demands, meditation offers us an oasis of tranquility and self-discovery. Remember, any work that makes you relax can be a gateway to soul-connecting meditation. Embrace the stillness, flow, movement, and sensory experiences that resonate with your being. Engage in practices that nourish your soul and foster gratitude and compassion. Allow meditation to become a way.

Empowering women through financial planning & taking control of finances

Empowering women through financial planning & taking control of finances

21 March 2023 3 min read

What is Financial Literacy?

Financial Literacy is the ability to understand and manage one’s finances effectively. It means having the ability to make strong and informed financial decisions which can lead to financial stability. When we talk about Financial literacy or Financial Management even while managing our own finances, we often realize we ask the men of the family either to take care of them or guide them.

But why men? Do they get any specialized training or anything that women can’t get? Are they actually so wise in making financial decisions? Are only men capable of handling finances? If the answer is NO, then why don’t we ever talk much about women managing finances, or taking care of financial responsibilities?

Today’s women work hand in hand with Men. But still, in the major part of India, we see when it comes to money matters women generally take a step back. This dependency is not bad but what is the need of being dependent on a male person in the family when you yourself can get educated for the same? Though with change in time, our society has changed as well, women are treated with equal respect but still in the major part of India even after being outgoing and educated, women still hesitate in managing their finances.

In recent years, there has been a growing awareness of the need for financial literacy, particularly among women. In India, this has become an important issue as women are often at a disadvantage when it comes to financial matters.

Financial literacy is the ability to understand and manage one’s finances effectively, even if it is the simplest task or the biggest one. It involves a range of skills, including budgeting, saving, investing, and understanding financial products such as loans, insurance, and credit cards.

One of the main reasons why women in India often lack financial literacy is due to cultural and societal norms. Women are traditionally expected to take care of the household and family, and financial matters are often seen as the responsibility of men. As a result, many women are not taught basic financial skills and are not confident to make financial decisions.

However, the situation is slowly changing, and there are now more resources available to help women improve their financial literacy. Here are some of the steps that can be taken to promote financial literacy among women in India:

Education and Training

Education is key to improving financial literacy among women. Schools and colleges should offer financial education as a part of their curriculum. In addition, various financial literacy programs and workshops can be organized to provide training and education to women.

Online resources

In today’s digital age, there are plenty of online resources available that can help women improve their financial literacy. Government and private institutions can create websites and apps that provide financial education, investment guidance, and other helpful tools.

Workshops

Workshops can be organized in communities to discuss financial matters with women. These workshops can cover budgeting, saving, and investing, as well as explaining financial products such as loans, insurance, and credit cards.

Women’s groups

Women’s groups can be formed at local levels to promote financial literacy. These groups can provide a supportive environment for women to share their experiences and learn from each other.

Mentoring and counseling

Mentoring and counseling can be provided to women to help them understand financial matters better. This can be done by connecting them with financial experts or advisors who can provide guidance and support.

In conclusion, financial literacy is a crucial skill that every individual needs to possess. However, it is particularly important for women in India who often face challenges when it comes to managing their finances. By taking the steps outlined above, we can help to improve financial literacy among women in India and empower every women to take control of their financial future.

It is our duty to help them with Financial Literacy and let them understand how important it is to manage their finances on their own, not because we want them to defeat men or compare with men, but for making them independent and strong so that tomorrow they can help others and themselves too if any situation requires.

A Family Business!

A Family Business!

06 January 2023 2 min read

A Family Business is not just a business, it is a legacy carried over from generation to generation. The thoughts, traditions, values, etc differ from family to family. It is a tradition that goes back several hundred years in India.

What makes the family business model different here is the practice of an Indian joint family. We all have practiced this at some point in life and many big families are living under one roof, with a common kitchen, and running one large business. As a concept, family businesses exist in every part of the world and like India, they too have gone through many iterations. A family Business sounds like whipped coffee, smooth and full of taste but managing it is not as easy as we think.

Let’s hear what 2nd and 3rd generation entrepreneur has to say about Family Business. To the next generations, whom we pass on the legacy second-generation entrepreneurs have a certain degree of advantage. However, the scope of bringing in your own fresh and young ideas is difficult because you are always welcomed on the red carpet. People recognize you for who you are and not for the talent you have. In a modern business scenario, irrespective of the inheritance, it is an entrepreneur’s talent, insight, and knowledge that makes a difference, not inheritance. it becomes difficult for them to gain acceptance and command as a leader, even for family-based businesses.

Over the last few years, we are seeing more instances of the second or third generation breaking away to do something different. The owners, too, are allowing them to discover new opportunities, and that is obvious in the prominent emergence of technology. They need to adopt new-age techniques and competencies to grow in today’s fast-paced world. They need to adopt new-age techniques and competencies to grow in today’s fast-paced world.

With the evolving world, there certainly are challenges and concerns in managing Family Business.

  • Confliction between family members
  • Retaining non-family employees
  • No separations of emotions and business
  • Biased decision making

With Family Business comes family investments for which we have Family Offices in trend these days. The family office serves a very different function. It is the place where the personal financial affairs of the owners and related family members are overseen and managed. A family office can provide a wide range of services to family members—from ministerial bill-paying services to oversight of the financial affairs of each family member, including income tax and estate tax planning, preparation of tax returns, investment management, asset protection strategies, entity administration, etc.

With Family Business comes family investments for which we have Family Offices in trend these days. The family office serves a very different function. It is the place where the personal financial affairs of the owners and related family members are overseen and managed. A family office can provide a wide range of services to family members—from ministerial bill-paying services to oversight of the financial affairs of each family member, including income tax and estate tax planning, preparation of tax returns, investment management, asset protection strategies, entity administration, etc.

In today’s evolving world, the way of running a Family Business evolved a lot and so does the family business entrepreneur. Family businesses are no doubt the backbone of India.

The road to “SUCCESS”

The road to “SUCCESS”

06 December 2022 4 min read

What does the road to success look like?

Sitting near the window one early winter morning and feeling refreshed and alive with the cool morning breeze I was lost deep in my thoughts wondering how far life has moved. I am 31 years old now and my life has changed upside down in its own happy and sad ways. Questions kept cooking in my mind for a while as I analyzed my life journey so far, asking myself am i successful?

But then what does success look like? Isn’t it a tough question to evaluate? Everyone has their own trajectory of measuring success.

On the road to success, there are bends, ups and downs, some lows and some highs. Success is not something you easily achieve, in fact it is something that knocks you off. At times we forget that this road to success also has failure as a part of its recipe and most likely we tend to reject failures. But why? Failures taught us to grow better. Each time we are knocked down by the circumstances of life, we have an important decision to make. You can choose to get up and keep trying, or to give up and stay down and out. Failures give us the real taste of success.

The next important part of success is the journey, never look out for the end goal. Seek through the journey and observe what all have you learnt on your way to success, that is even more important than the final goal being achieved. The journey teaches us some important aspects which we don’t care for any more. Success is not about achieving one singular mission, but it is about witnessing the grand victory.

I believe that success is not an end but it is a moving target. My today’s lifestyle was a dream for me when I received my first paycheck in my teenage years. A nice home, good salary, car, fancy clothes and a happy life, now that’s what success looks like. But now that I have all this, I am still craving for more. I dream to become independent, a senior contributor in my professional world, i want to increase my cashflow and decrease my expenses. In short the term “SUCCESS” will keep changing with time as there is no end to it.

While following the road to success another important aspect is to balance the approach to success. To me success is not only about having more money, but to have a comfortable and satisfactory life, and to taste this satisfaction it is important to live every moment. There’s no end to running behind achieving something or other, but the journey is all about enjoying the scenic view, pit stops, some flat tyres, tasteless food to tasting michelin star chef’s delicacy.

I have watched people burn out while they run on the treadmill to success. A fresh start is always full of enthusiasm but as you keep walking you start getting demotivated as the road becomes monotonous and you get diverted by watching people walking next to you. It can be so easy to start towards a goal with immense passion and energy, but life often steps in and leads to demotivation and distraction. It is important to keep walking, even if you are taking those baby steps toward your goal but don’t stop because of the diversions on the way. Staying motivated itself does half of the work.

As you continue to walk on this road to success, remember that every route is different from the last road that you have crossed and every journey is different and special in its own way. Before you start, keep this in mind that you will have to give yourself a defined time, keep the things ready that you need beforehand and rest you can collect on your way. When you cross half of the path, take a look back and stock what you’ve done up until this point. There may be a point where you failed or you took extra time but appreciating yourself where you did well is equally important. Look closely on what you have learnt so far and then the rest half way will become comparatively smooth for you.

For me Success is not the end of the journey but it is the journey itself. Success is just not about having a wealthy bank balance, or owning a luxury car, or working as a CEO. Success is different for every individual. Look at someone who is working at a very junior level as per his age but he is able to take care of his family well then that happy family is success to him.

What’s the point of being successful as a CEO of any Multinational Company when you don’t have any time to spend with your family and friends, success is not the tag but the happiness that comes along with it.

To me personally success is the ultimate happiness, it’s not the money I earn, not the house I live in, not the company I work for. There is no success with satisfaction and happiness. Success cannot be measured by your bank balance, success is measured by how satisfied and content you are with the work you have done. If you are eternally happy then you have become successful in life.

I am a mother of a six year old boy and have recently resumed my career after 6 long years, I am not professionally very high ranked but that does not means i am not successful, I am able to balance my personal and professional life well without guilt I am content with my life, I have raised my son with good values, I have a happy married relationship, I live a physically healthy life, my family is near me and with God’s grace i have everything that i need. This is all that actually matters in life, and I can say that I AM SUCCESSFUL and this is my MANTRA TO SUCCESS.

The road to “SUCCESS” was not easy for me either, but I had to make it easier for myself by looking at the happy times and the achievements I did.

Happy Living!

What is Saving? And how is it different from Investment?

What is Saving? And how is it different from Investment?

07 October 2022 3 min read

When demonetization hit the Country, we all found out that the Indian household Women were the richest in the family. They had so much money saved with them just for the fact that if any emergency comes their way tomorrow, at least they will have some cash available to fight with it. This is what we call SAVING.

Who doesn’t want to have a good life, a life with all the comfort, fancy cars, amazing wardrobes, access to high-end restaurants serving different delicacies, and whatnot? Spending our hard-earned money on buying the things you love, going out shopping, and getting every item tick marked in your wishlist feels so fascinating, it makes us feel independent and to be honest quite proud as well. But, the actual sense of Independence and pride is a financially secured future.

Saving money gives you a way out of the uncertainties of life and provides you with an opportunity to enjoy a quality life. Saving is not about investing in Stock Markets, Fixed Deposits, SIPs, etc. Saving is just about keeping a part of your earnings aside and just not touching it. Setting aside money every month for investing will keep you from spending that money on unnecessary expenditures.

So how is Investment different from Saving?

Saving is keeping the money aside, either in your bank account or at your home and Investment is putting that saved amount in a market scheme to gain a return on the same is called an investment. Investing is an effective way to have your money work for you and build wealth. Holding cash and bank savings accounts are considered safe strategies, but investing your money allows it to grow in value over time with the benefit of compounding and long-term growth. At a certain age, it feels like it’s too early to start investing and after a certain time it feels like it’s too late to start investing, but then there is no fixed time to start planning for the betterment of your future.

Investing is one step ahead of savings and comes in a wide range of choices starting from including stocks, bonds, mutual funds, exchange-traded funds, real estate, etc. It’s never too late to become an investor. You may be well into middle age before realizing that life is moving quickly, requiring a plan to deal with old age and retirement.

Many people think investing is complicated, but it doesn’t have to be. Take small steps with the advice of an experienced Investment Manager, who can guide you in and out about the benefits of investing. Investments give good returns and all they need is your time. One cannot compound wealth without giving it proper time. So, plan your near future goal and start investing a limited amount every month. Trust me the happiness of having a compounded amount in your hand at the time of the need is the biggest of all.

Not everyone gets a chance to plan their future, some do have to just go on with the situation. But, Investments give you an opportunity to plan your future. There is a different confidence level in your planning when you know that you do have a certain amount saved for executing that plan.

Having inherited wealth is not everything today looking at the increase in expenses these days, and hence it is suggested to create wealth by investing and compounding your money with time. And you know what comes free with compounding wealth is a most comfortable and hassle-free post-retirement life.

It is very important to educate our society and our children on the importance of saving or the importance of financial freedom. There’s nothing bigger than having financial Independence. Savings not only helps with our future goals but also brings
discipline to life. We may not have the money to save for a retirement home in the mountains but we all do have a small room available for it.

Take your first step towards Financial Freedom today.