Shakull Guptaa, an Apeejay School of Management (ASM) alumnus, has transformed his passion for personal finance into a thriving business. Founder of Investt with Vidvanvitt, Shakull offers personalised financial advice, from retirement planning to stock recommendations. In an engaging conversation, he shares his professional journey, the impact of his education at Apeejay, and why he believes starting early is the key to financial success.
What are you currently working on, Shakull?
I run my own financial planning firm under the name Investt with Vidvanvitt. I advise clients on retirement planning, child education goals, stock investments, insurance planning, and other aspects of personal finance. It’s a fulfilling role that lets me cater to individual financial needs.
What inspired you to choose finance as a calling?
Personal finance has always fascinated me, especially because it’s not personal enough for many people in India. While there are plenty of influencers sharing generic advice, individual financial needs are unique and require tailored solutions. My experience at Ameriprise Financial and later at The Economic Times, where I specialised in mutual funds and personal finance, reinforced this belief.
What’s one financial tip every student should know?
Start early! Most students overlook personal finance during their MBA or early 20s, but it’s critical. Whether it’s saving for future needs like marriage or supporting family expenses, early financial planning can make a huge difference.
How did your experience at Apeejay School of Management shape your career?
I pursued a Post Graduate Diploma in Management with a specialisation in Finance and Marketing at Apeejay. The experience was transformative—great faculty, a strong peer network, and excellent placement support. I still remember inspiring lectures from Apeejay professors. Plus, the friendships I built during those days remain strong, even years later.
Were you campus placed?
Yes, I was placed at Axis Bank through campus recruitment. It was an excellent start to my career. The CRC (Corporate Resource Centre) played a pivotal role in preparing us for interviews and professional development.
And how do you give back through financial literacy initiatives?
I conduct workshops and guest lectures, including a recent session at ASM. These platforms allow me to share practical insights and help individuals understand the importance of personalised financial planning.