Nikhil Kamath Net Worth INR: Nikhil Kamath, the co-founder of Zerodha, has become a household name in India’s entrepreneurial scene. At just 38, he’s not only the youngest billionaire in the country but also an inspiring figure for those who dream big despite unconventional paths. His net worth, estimated to be around ₹24,000–26,000 crore as of 2025, reflects his incredible journey from a school dropout to a fintech pioneer. Let’s dive into how Nikhil built his fortune, his ventures, and what makes his story so compelling.
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From Humble Beginnings to Fintech Stardom
Nikhil Kamath’s story is anything but ordinary. Born in Shimoga, Karnataka, in 1986, he grew up in a middle-class family with a banker father and a veena-playing mother. Dropping out of school after Class 10, Nikhil didn’t follow the typical route of higher education. Instead, he started working at a call center at 17, earning ₹8,000 a month while dabbling in stock trading on the side. His knack for understanding markets set the stage for his future success. By his early 20s, he was managing investments for colleagues, which gave him the confidence to co-found Zerodha with his brother Nithin in 2010. That decision changed everything.
- Early Hustle: Started trading stocks at 17 while working a call center job.
- Self-Taught Expertise: Learned market trends through experience, not formal education.
- Zerodha’s Birth: Co-founded India’s largest brokerage firm with a disruptive low-fee model.
Zerodha: The Game-Changer Behind His Wealth
Zerodha, India’s leading retail stock brokerage, is the cornerstone of Nikhil’s fortune. Launched with a vision to make trading accessible, Zerodha introduced a flat-fee model that shook up the industry. Today, with over 12 million clients, the company is valued at ₹30,000–35,000 crore. Nikhil’s significant stake in this profitable, debt-free business accounts for a huge chunk of his net worth, estimated at ₹24,000 crore ($3 billion USD) in 2025, according to sources like Forbes and Fortune India. The platform’s success lies in its simplicity, transparency, and digital-first approach, making it a favorite among retail investors.
- Disruptive Model: Flat fees and no paperwork revolutionized stock trading.
- Massive Scale: Over 1 crore active users and ₹6,000 crore in revenue (FY 2024).
- Bootstrapped Success: Grew without external funding, a rare feat in fintech.
Diversifying Wealth Through Smart Ventures
Nikhil didn’t stop at Zerodha. He co-founded True Beacon in 2019, an asset management firm catering to ultra-high-net-worth individuals with a unique zero-fee model, charging only on profits. True Beacon manages over ₹3,000 crore in assets, adding significantly to his wealth. In 2021, he launched Gruhas, a real estate and proptech investment platform, focusing on startups in sustainability and technology. His venture capital fund, Rainmatter, supports fintech and health-tech startups like Ather Energy and Jupiter, further diversifying his portfolio. These ventures showcase Nikhil’s ability to spot trends and invest strategically.
- True Beacon: Zero-fee wealth management for India’s elite.
- Gruhas: Invests in real estate tech and sustainable startups.
- Rainmatter: Backs innovative fintech and health-tech companies.
Philanthropy and a Minimalist Lifestyle
Despite his massive wealth, Nikhil lives relatively modestly. He’s known for favoring Indian brands and avoiding flashy displays of riches. In 2023, at age 36, he became the youngest Indian to sign The Giving Pledge, committing to donate at least 50% of his wealth to causes like education, climate change, and healthcare. Through the Rainmatter Foundation, he’s donated over ₹230 crore to sustainability and social equity projects. Nikhil also hosts the “WTF is” podcast, sharing insights with leaders like Bill Gates and Ranbir Kapoor, which boosts his influence without directly adding to his bank account.
- The Giving Pledge: Committed to giving away half his wealth.
- Rainmatter Foundation: Donated ₹120 crore in 2024 for climate and education.
- Low-Key Lifestyle: Prefers practical luxury over ostentatious displays.
What’s Next for Nikhil Kamath?
Nikhil’s net worth is poised to grow as Zerodha expands and his investments mature. He’s bullish on India’s potential, particularly in sectors like electric vehicles and superfoods like makhana, which he believes could become a global export. His WTFund supports young entrepreneurs under 25, fostering the next generation of innovators. With a focus on sustainable wealth creation and philanthropy, Nikhil is redefining what it means to be a billionaire in modern India. His journey from a call center to a ₹24,000 crore fortune is a testament to grit, timing, and a relentless drive to innovate.
- Future Ventures: Exploring premium financial products and global Indian brands.
- WTFund: Non-dilutive funding for young startup founders.
- Global Vision: Advocates for Indian products like makhana on the world stage.
Nikhil Kamath’s net worth of ₹24,000–26,000 crore is more than just a number—it’s the result of bold decisions, a knack for markets, and a commitment to giving back. His story inspires millions, proving that you don’t need a degree to build an empire, just vision and hustle.