'Move abroad, get any job...in a few years, you will have uncaged USD capital': Shankar on becoming a great investor

Indian investor Shankar Sharma has stirred debate with his views on wealth-building and investing, urging young Indians to move abroad, take any job, and build financial freedom through "uncaged USD capital." 

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Shankar recounted how many young Indians have sought his advice on becoming great investors in recent years. His response was direct:

"Move abroad. Get any job – even a driver in the Gulf makes Rs 75,000 per month. Build knowledge on the side. In a few years, you will have knowledge AND mobile, free-flowing, UNCAGED USD capital."

Many Indian youth have come in the past 3-4 years, asking " How can I become a great investor". I say:"Move abroad. Get any job - even a driver in the Gulf makes Rs. 75k/pm. Build knowledge on the side. In a few years, you will have knowledge AND , mobile, free flowing, UNCAGED…

— Shankar Sharma (@1shankarsharma) March 15, 2025

He emphasized that capital mobility is a crucial factor in successful investing. Once freed from geographical and regulatory constraints, he suggested, investors could seamlessly move in and out of markets, assets, and currencies—much like a sniper taking a shot.

Shankar contrasted the freedom of mobile capital with what he termed "caged capital," implying that many Indian investors are trapped within domestic market constraints and emotional attachments to their home country’s financial system.

"You won’t be emotional about your cage & zoo. Because now you are a free animal, that can hunt anywhere it sees food," he wrote.

Referring to his own investment journey, he noted that he had "uncaged" his capital in 1999, a decision he considers the single best investment choice of his life.

"I love my country. But I love more my Uncaged Capital’s freedom to love many countries," he added.

Netizens reaction

Shankar's post has so far crossed over 270,000 views, sparking a lively debate among investors and finance enthusiasts.

"Is it possible to make 1000-2000cr through investing as you, kedia sir, kacholia sir, Mukul sir, rakesh sir made by investing?" a user asked.

Shankar Sharma responded by emphasizing the importance of market conditions over individual skill. "Possible but will take 20-30 years of a strong bull market, and timely exits. Remember what I always say: 'There are no great investors. There are ONLY Great Bull Markets.'"

Possible but will take 20-30 years of a strong bull market, and timely exits.
Remember what I always say:
" There are no great investors.
There are ONLY Great Bull Markets"

— Shankar Sharma (@1shankarsharma) March 15, 2025

In Dubai, we can catch all Asia and uoto US hours. Easy

— Shankar Sharma (@1shankarsharma) March 15, 2025

I have invested & made tons of money over 30 years in India ( & paid multiple dozens of crs in taxes.). But I have plenty more money outside too. WB was born in the greatest bull market era of America. So little other choice.
Whatever makes money. Home or away.

— Shankar Sharma (@1shankarsharma) March 16, 2025

Interesting perspective.

Financial freedom isn’t just about making money, it’s about having the ability to deploy it anywhere, without restrictions.

True power lies in mobility, not just wealth.

— Parth Patel (@BeingParthPatel) March 15, 2025