‘This tastes amazing, Nirvaan! I wasn’t aware that you’re such a talented cook,’ he says with his eyes wide open in surprise.

‘Thanks, Uncle! Cooking is like therapy for me these days. Anyway, how’s our portfolio looking?’ I ask him the much-dreaded question for any investor.

‘Not as solid as always. Some of your ventures are performing exceptionally well while some have bombed. The acquisition that you’re planning to make in the tech sector, the AILENA app, are you sure of that one?’

‘Only time will tell. I have a hunch though, that it’ll be a huge thing. There are so many singles out there, just like me, looking for love. It’ll sell.’

‘But your investment amount is way too high. If you haven’t committed to the deal on paper yet, I would suggest that you ask your fellow investors for their opinion and conduct a thorough due diligence,’ he says with concern.

‘Noted.’

‘Now, any new ideas brewing in that entrepreneurial mind of yours?’ he asks.

‘Not really. I’ve been focusing on my personal life these days. I’d love to pick your brain on the investment potential of certain sectors, but some other day.’

‘All right. As long as you don’t let emotions influence your investment decisions, it’s all good,’ he warns me.

‘Yes, true. But I do let my emotions get the best of me sometimes, like they did with some of my crypto investments.’

‘Emotions can be the biggest impediment when it comes to making sound decisions, beta, particularly in high-stress situations like market crashes. It’s crucial to base investment decisions on logic and thorough analysis rather than fear or excitement.’

‘You’re right, Uncle. I need to adopt a more rational approach moving forward. What should I do to make my investments more solid and secure?’

‘I keep telling you that diversification is key. We need to spread your investments across different asset classes and industries to reduce your risk exposure. You’ve been inclined heavily towards high-risk startups. That’s not good.’

‘Fair, fair. Why don’t you buy some dull government FDs on my behalf?’ I wink playfully.

‘Nirvaan, we really do need to be careful. That’s all I’m trying to say!’

‘I know, Uncle. I’ll prioritize logic over emotions in my investment strategy from now on, I assure you. But I’ve made up my mind to invest in AILENA,’ I tell him.

The doorbell rings just then, and I remember at that very instant that I’d invited Asmitha over as well. I hadn’t spoken to her after our first meeting, except for a brief chat on WhatsApp. I bring her in and introduce her to Mr Mehta. They exchange a few pleasantries and then Mr Mehta leaves.