In recent years, especially after the historic bull market of 2077/78 BS, the Nepal Stock Exchange (NEPSE) has attracted a wave of young investors [2]. Social media platforms are buzzing with stories of massive profits from small investments—TikTok tips and Telegram groups fuel the perception that trading is a shortcut to instant wealth [2]. But the reality is far more sobering [3]. This blog post is a reality check for Nepal’s young traders chasing overnight millionaire dreams without understanding the risks, skills, and discipline required to survive in the market [3].
Trading Is Not a Get-Rich-Quick Scheme
The biggest misconception is that trading is an easy way to make money [3]. In truth, trading is a profession, much like being a doctor, engineer, or pilot [3]. It demands years of study, practice, and emotional control [3].
Real-Life Example: In 2077 BS, a college student from Butwal turned NPR 50,000 into NPR 3 lakh trading hydropower stocks during the bull run [3]. Thrilled by the success, he poured all his earnings into a high-priced company, only to lose 70% of his capital within months [3]. His loss wasn’t due to bad luck—it was a lack of risk management and patience [4].
Lesson: One or two lucky trades don’t make you a trader [4]. Surviving in the market long-term requires skill, not luck [4].
You Can’t Turn NPR 10,000 into NPR 1 Crore Overnight
Many young traders ask: “I have NPR 10,000; how do I turn it into NPR 1 crore?” [4]
Let’s break it down:
Even if you achieve a 1000% return—which is extremely rare—your NPR 10,000 would grow to NPR 1,00,000 [4]. You’d still need NPR 99,00,000 to reach NPR 1 crore [5]. The reality? Even the world’s best traders aim for 15%–30% annual returns [5]. In Nepal, consistent 50%–100% yearly returns are considered exceptional and require strategy, discipline, and years of practice [5].
Lesson: Small capital grows slowly [5]. Wealth comes from consistent profits + long-term investing, not miracles [5].
Don’t Make Trading Your Life’s Goal in Your 20s
Many ask: “How much money should I start trading with?” [5]
My honest answer: “NPR 0 if you’re not ready.” [5]
Your early 20s shouldn’t be about chasing profits [6]. This is the time to:
- Learn new skills [6]
- Try 10 different things (freelancing, business, internships, content creation) [6]
- Build networks and mindsets [6]
- Understand how money works [6]
Jumping into trading without financial literacy often leads to burnout, giving up, or worse—losing your savings [6].
Lesson: Use your 20s to explore, learn, and build [6]. Trading can wait; your foundation can’t [6].
One Trade Won’t Change Your Life—It Might Ruin It
Another tragic mistake is betting everything on a “sure shot” trade [6, 7]. Some invest their entire savings or even borrowed money, thinking, “If this works, I’ll double my money” [7].
Real-Life Example: A follower once shared that he invested his NPR 2.5 lakh wedding fund into a single stock, hoping for a 2x return [7]. The stock crashed by 60% in two months [7]. He didn’t just lose money—he lost peace, sleep, and confidence [7]. This isn’t trading; it’s gambling [7].
Who Should Trade? You, if:
- You don’t rely on the money for rent or family needs [7]
- You’re prepared to lose some money without impacting your lifestyle [7]
- You view trading as a skill-building process, not a lottery ticket [7]
Lesson: If losing money would harm your life or mental health, don’t trade [8].
Conclusion: Your 20s Are for Building, Not Breaking
Trading can be a powerful skill, but only with discipline, education, and long-term thinking [8]. NEPSE is not a casino [8]. You don’t need to gamble to grow wealth [8].
Start Here:
- Learn personal finance [8]
- Build an emergency fund [8]
- Invest in yourself, not “tips” [8]
- Practice with small amounts or paper trading [8]
- Aim for long-term growth, not overnight success [8]
Truth: The market rewards patience and preparation, not greed [9]. If you truly want wealth, focus on building habits, skills, and strategies, not just profits [9].
