Media’s role isn’t just to deliver news, but also to educate and explain: Anil Singhvi

In an exclusive interaction with Samachar4Media, Anil Singhvi, Managing Editor of Zee Business and one of India’s most prominent stock market analysts, shared candid insights on the stock market, investor behaviour, and the evolving role of the media in financial literacy.

The conversation took place during a special event titled ‘Ek Kadam Dhan Ki Ore’, jointly organised by Zee Business and financial app Dhan on 5 July 2025 at Bharat Mandapam, Delhi.

Excerpts of the interview:

How important are events like ‘Ek Kadam Dhan Ki Ore’ for today’s investors? What do you consider the most significant aspect of this initiative?

Investors typically need guidance during two phases, when the market is booming and when it’s declining. During a bull run, people often start believing they’re experts and invest without much thought. In a bearish phase, fear creeps in. Events like Ek Kadam Dhan Ki Ore aim to educate people on how to invest at the right time, in the right way, and in the right place. That’s exactly why we’re hosting these events across the country.

This event brought together fund CEOs and market professionals from across India. What tangible benefits do such discussions offer to everyday investors?

People watch and listen to us on TV, but rarely get a chance to ask direct questions. At these events, beyond panel discussions, we open the floor to the public, allowing them to ask anything, from portfolio concerns to specific stock queries. It builds trust and gives them personalised guidance.

You've observed investor behaviour for years. Do you think today’s investors are more informed and mature than before?

Absolutely. Investors today are far more mature than they used to be. SIP investments are growing steadily. Young investors especially are making more informed decisions. The digital revolution, media, apps, and financial influencers have together created an ecosystem where people are thinking before they invest.

What is the biggest challenge for small investors today, lack of information, fear, or greed?

The biggest challenge is the lack of proper information and the false belief that money can be made quickly in the stock market without effort. It’s essential to treat investing as a serious process. Greed and fear will only be managed when the right information is available.

How would you describe the current market phase, one of opportunity or caution?

This is a phase full of opportunities. If your investment horizon is 3-5 years, current levels are a good time to invest. Of course, one must be cautious about where the money is going, but whether or not to invest shouldn’t be a doubt.

You often say that ‘patience is the biggest weapon.’ Do new investors understand this? Could you share an example?

Patience comes with age and experience, whether the investor is new or seasoned. In fact, I believe new investors should face a setback early on so they understand how money is made and how it’s lost. That lesson will turn them into true investors. Personally, I believe a new investor should get jolted by the market right away. The day they understand how money can disappear, they’ll figure out how to make it.

How significant has the role of media been in promoting financial literacy, especially in recent years?

It’s been a major driving force. Our role isn’t just to deliver news, but also to educate and explain. From savings to wealth creation, we must simplify the journey for our viewers. If an investor no longer feels the need to watch a business channel, that means we’ve done our job well.

Do you think there’s a growing demand and reach for financial content in Hindi?

Definitely. English was a compulsion, Hindi is a preference. We’ve proven that business can be spoken in Hindi, and the market can be explained in the simplest possible language. The more friendly and relatable we are, the more people will learn.

You’re like a guide to millions of investors. Is there any feedback or experience that has personally touched you?

There are many such stories. One that stays with me is of an 85-year-old visually impaired woman in Mumbai who recognised me only by voice. Until her final days, she wouldn’t sell any stock without hearing my opinion. Experiences like these remind me of the immense trust people place in me. I consider myself just a medium, destiny is written by the one above.

You’ve spoken to millions of investors. What’s one piece of advice you believe every investor should remember for life?

Just one thing, there is no substitute for hard work. Success doesn’t come easy. The higher you want to go, the harder you need to work. Success isn’t a destination; it’s a place you must strive to stay at.