By Business Desk,News18

Copyright news18

In a recent conversation between Zerodha co-founder Nikhil Kamath and author-investor Ruchir Sharma, the two reflected on their early career experiences and first paychecks. Kamath revealed that in the early 2000s, he earned just $1,000 (about Rs 88,000) annually while working at a Bangalore-based call center. In contrast, Sharma shared that at just 22, he was offered a $100,000 job by Morgan Stanley in India in 1996; an amount equivalent to roughly Rs 88 lakh today.
The difference in their starting points highlighted the diverse paths talent can take. While Kamath was navigating night shifts and modest pay, Sharma was stepping into a life-changing corporate opportunity that promised both experience and financial reward.
Ruchir’s Turning Point
Ruchir Sharma, now a well-known figure in global finance, recalled how Morgan Stanley recognised his potential during its early expansion in India.
“I was all set to pursue a PhD,” he said in the WTF podcast episode, “but they asked me, ‘Do you want to study or make money?’ I chose money.” The offer allowed him to work on global macro analysis from India, with the possibility of moving to New York later.
Nikhil Kamath, listening to this journey, expressed surprise at the contrast. “Five years after that, I was earning $1,000 a year at a call center in Bangalore called 24/7,” he shared. Sharma responded with fascination: “You started in the call center world? Fascinating!”
Watch the video here:

Early Career Lessons
Ruchir Sharma’s academic background, including a degree from Shri Ram College of Commerce, coupled with his journalistic experience, helped him stand out. Writing for business publications while still a student, he caught the attention of Morgan Stanley, which recruited him to its Mumbai office. Within a few years, he moved to New York, advanced to co-head the emerging markets team, and eventually became Chief Global Strategist at Morgan Stanley Investment Management.
Meanwhile, Nikhil Kamath’s humble beginnings shaped his entrepreneurial journey, ultimately leading to the founding of Zerodha, now one of India’s leading brokerage firms.
Insights On India’s Economy
During the chat, the duo also discussed India’s growth prospects. Ruchir Sharma noted that without major structural reforms, India is unlikely to exceed 6 per cent growth. While services have traditionally driven wealth, manufacturing is emerging as a new driver, with the number of billionaires from the sector rising. He emphasised that continued market openness and competitiveness could be India’s next big opportunity.