New Delhi, 13 November 2024: 360 ONE Wealth, in collaboration with CRISIL, today released the latest edition of The Wealth Index report– a detailed research and analysis on the investment behaviours, preferences, and wealth management trends of India’s ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNIs) and high-net-worth individuals (HNIs). The report draws insights from an extensive survey conducted among 388 UHNIs and HNIs.

India is rapidly emerging as a global wealth hub, with the country now housing 334 billionaires in 2024. Mumbai has solidified its status as Asia’s billionaire capital and ranks third globally, racing ahead of the US and China. This economic momentum is expected to further fuel wealth creation across sectors like fintech, e-commerce, space, and defence.

The Wealth Index offers a detailed understanding of the investment strategies and priorities of India’s wealthy, serving as a valuable guide for investors, wealth managers, and policymakers alike.

Commenting on the launch of the report, Karan Bhagat, Founder, MD & CEO, 360 ONE, said, “The Wealth Index provides a comprehensive picture of India’s evolving wealth landscape and thereby offers a strategic compass to navigate the evolving world of wealth management. These insights reinforce existing trends and reveal new dimensions of how the wealthy manage and grow their assets. As the financial landscape evolves with new investment avenues and rising market participation, the wealthy must stay ahead by leveraging expert knowledge and seizing opportunities. We hope this report offers valuable insights into the behaviour of India’s wealth creators and inspires meaningful conversations about the role of your wealth manager.”

Yatin Shah, Co-Founder, 360 ONE & CEO of 360 ONE Wealth, said, “The greatest transfer of wealth in history is underway, and through accelerated wealth creation via core businesses and professional ventures, the focus has shifted to optimisation and preservation, ensuring that wealth is sustained and managed effectively for generations. We act as trusted advisors, guiding our clients with a structured approach to managing and growing wealth while safeguarding it for the future. The Wealth Index report also showcases that investors place high importance on a wealth manager’s track record, reputation, and engagement model. This demonstrates the evolving priorities of the wealthy, who increasingly value professional advice for peace of mind and long-term security.”

Jiju Vidyadharan, Senior Director, CRISIL Limited said, “We are delighted to partner with 360 ONE Wealth for The Wealth Index report, which offers a fascinating glimpse into the minds of India’s ultra HNIs and HNIs. The findings underscore the increasing complexity of wealth management needs in the backdrop of the country’s remarkable economic ascent. Our research reveals wealthy individuals are seeking more nuanced investment strategies, including alternatives and ESG-focused opportunities. They are also placing greater importance on professional wealth advisory services, succession planning and estate management. At CRISIL, we believe this shift necessitates a more integrated and forward-looking approach to wealth management.”

The report reveals the increasing shift beyond traditional investment asset classes. UHNIs and HNIs are growing interest in alternatives such as Portfolio Management Services (PMS), Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs), Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs), and private equity.

Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors are becoming central to investment strategies, with 68% of respondents considering ESG as critical. Investors are increasingly prioritizing sustainability in their portfolios, reflecting a conscious shift toward responsible investing.

The report also reveals a growing number of women entering the class of the wealthy elite. Over 40% of wealthy women are between the ages of 51-60, with many favouring lower-risk, stable investment products. This demographic shift is bringing new perspectives to wealth management.

82% of respondents are engaged in philanthropy or plan to be in the next two years, particularly among older UHNIs who have already secured their families’ futures.

Succession planning is capturing the momentum. With 72% of respondents considering succession planning essential, there is a clear recognition of its importance for wealth preservation. Among UHNIs, 86% have either started or completed their estate planning.