Sharan Hegde is the Founder and CEO of 1% Club, a pioneering company in the field of financial planning and literacy. His journey is a compelling narrative of resilience, transparency, and a steadfast commitment to improving financial literacy among Indians.
Sharan Hegde recently announced a significant milestone for 1% Club: receiving the RIA (Registered Investment Advisor) license from SEBI (Securities and Exchange Board of India). This achievement is not just a testament to the company’s compliance and dedication, but also a reflection of Sharan Hegde’s leadership and vision. In his LinkedIn post, Sharan Hegde candidly shared the journey leading to this accomplishment and the interactions that shaped it.
Sharan Hegde’s announcement was prompted by a hiring post that caught the attention of Neil Borate, a senior journalist at Mint. Known for his critical stance on financial influencers, Neil Borate’s scrutiny could have easily led to a defensive reaction. However, Sharan Hegde chose a different path. “After doing this for so long you realize that ‘being nice’ is always better for your mental health than ‘going to war,'” Sharan Hegde reflected. This perspective highlights his maturity and understanding of the value of constructive dialogue over conflict.
Instead of retaliating, Sharan Hegde, along with Raghav Gupta, invited Neil Borate to their office. This gesture of openness and willingness to engage in a face-to-face conversation exemplifies Sharan Hegde’s commitment to transparency. The meeting, which lasted nearly an hour, covered various aspects of 1% Club’s operations, including their business model, financial figures, and compliance with SEBI and BASL regulations. Sharan Hegde’s approach underscores the importance of building trust through transparency and dialogue.
Although Sharan Hegde and Neil Borate did not agree on every point, they found common ground in their shared goal: the benefit of the retail investor and their financial literacy. This meeting was a pivotal moment, showcasing Sharan Hegde’s ability to navigate criticism constructively and his dedication to the company’s mission. “We are both working for the benefit of the retail investor and their financial literacy,” Sharan Hegde emphasized.
Sharan Hegde’s gratitude towards SEBI for trusting 1% Club with the RIA license is evident. He assured that the company would work in the best interest of the Indian public. This license is not just a regulatory approval; it is a validation of the company’s mission and values. Sharan Hegde’s vision for 1% Club is ambitious: “Million financial planners for 100 Crore Indians. It will take decades if not a century.” This long-term perspective reflects his commitment to creating a lasting impact on India’s financial landscape.
As 1% Club continues to grow, Sharan Hegde remains open to criticism and feedback. He believes that transparency and accountability are crucial for sustained success. “We are always open to criticism and feedback and will continue to be transparent to the media because every single one of us is capable of having a blind spot,” Sharan Hegde stated. This openness to scrutiny is a hallmark of his leadership style, ensuring that the company remains grounded and focused on its mission.
Sharan Hegde’s journey with 1% Club is also a story of collaboration and learning. His partnership with Raghav Gupta and their collective efforts in building the company are indicative of the teamwork and shared vision that drive their success. Sharan Hegde’s leadership is not just about steering the company; it is about fostering a culture of integrity, learning, and continuous improvement.
In an industry often marred by mistrust and skepticism, Sharan Hegde stands out as a beacon of transparency and ethical leadership. His approach to handling criticism, engaging in open dialogue, and maintaining compliance with regulatory standards sets a high benchmark for others to follow. Sharan Hegde’s story is a powerful reminder that integrity and vision are the cornerstones of sustainable success.
As Sharan Hegde leads 1% Club into the future, his focus remains on empowering Indians with financial literacy and planning. His vision of a financially literate India is ambitious, but his commitment and strategic approach make it achievable. Sharan Hegde’s journey is an inspiring testament to the power of resilience, transparency, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
Sharan Hegde’s leadership at 1% Club exemplifies the principles of integrity, openness, and long-term vision. His journey from navigating criticism to achieving regulatory milestones is a beacon of hope and inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs. Sharan Hegde’s commitment to financial literacy and empowerment continues to drive 1% Club forward, making a lasting impact on India’s financial landscape. Through his story, Sharan Hegde teaches us that true leadership is about more than just achieving success; it is about building trust, fostering dialogue, and staying true to one’s values.
