In today’s digital age, monthly subscription services have become a routine part of life. From streaming platforms to music apps, consumers often pay for multiple services without realizing the cumulative financial impact. According to Chartered Accountant Nitin Kaushik, these seemingly small charges can quietly erode significant portions of your wealth over time.
The Hidden Cost of Subscriptions
Shared in an X post, Kaushik highlighted the issue using popular subscriptions like Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney+ Hotstar, and Spotify. Individually, each may seem manageable, but together they add up to roughly Rs 1,850 monthly or Rs 22,200 annually, quietly impacting long-term savings.
Kaushik explains that what feels like a minor monthly expense can escalate dramatically over years. “Over a decade, this amounts to Rs 2.2 lakh spent purely on subscriptions. If that amount were invested at a conservative annual return of 12%, it could grow to over Rs 4.3 lakh,” he notes.
Why Small Leaks Matter
The real danger, Kaushik emphasizes, is in the compounding effect. He said that while one subscription may seem harmless, multiple services together create a substantial financial leak. Small, repeated expenses can have a long-term impact similar to that of a missed investment opportunity.
According to him, tracking every recurring payment is not just prudent; it is essential for effective personal finance management. Kaushik suggests periodically reviewing subscriptions and eliminating unused or non-essential services.
Kaushik also recommends adopting simple tools, such as expense trackers or dedicated subscription management apps, to identify and curb unnecessary recurring payments.
Balancing Finance and Lifestyle
The post sparked a debate among commentors about balancing financial planning with quality of life. One person noted that while compounding and long-term planning are important, it is difficult to think ten years ahead when the future is uncertain. Some also argued that the subscription amounts mentioned might be slightly inflated to illustrate the point.
Kaushik responded, emphasizing moderation in all things, saying even basic essentials should be consumed mindfully. He clarified that entertainment is acceptable, but unchecked spending on non-essential subscriptions can become a hidden drain. Another reader remarked that the four subscriptions listed are fairly basic and not extravagant. Kaushik countered, explaining that such examples are often drawn from people who are already in a stable financial position.
The Hidden Cost of Subscriptions
Shared in an X post, Kaushik highlighted the issue using popular subscriptions like Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney+ Hotstar, and Spotify. Individually, each may seem manageable, but together they add up to roughly Rs 1,850 monthly or Rs 22,200 annually, quietly impacting long-term savings.
Kaushik explains that what feels like a minor monthly expense can escalate dramatically over years. “Over a decade, this amounts to Rs 2.2 lakh spent purely on subscriptions. If that amount were invested at a conservative annual return of 12%, it could grow to over Rs 4.3 lakh,” he notes.
Why Small Leaks Matter
The real danger, Kaushik emphasizes, is in the compounding effect. He said that while one subscription may seem harmless, multiple services together create a substantial financial leak. Small, repeated expenses can have a long-term impact similar to that of a missed investment opportunity.
According to him, tracking every recurring payment is not just prudent; it is essential for effective personal finance management. Kaushik suggests periodically reviewing subscriptions and eliminating unused or non-essential services.
Kaushik also recommends adopting simple tools, such as expense trackers or dedicated subscription management apps, to identify and curb unnecessary recurring payments.
🚨 The Silent Wealth Leak Nobody Talks About
— CA Nitin Kaushik (@Finance_Bareek) September 12, 2025
Netflix – ₹650
Prime – ₹299
Hotstar – ₹299
Spotify – ₹599
👉 Total = ~₹1,850/month
That’s ₹22,200/year 🫣
✨ Looks harmless monthly, but:
• In 10 years = ₹2.2 Lakh
• If invested at 12% CAGR → ₹4.3 Lakh+
📉 OTT feels…
Balancing Finance and Lifestyle
The post sparked a debate among commentors about balancing financial planning with quality of life. One person noted that while compounding and long-term planning are important, it is difficult to think ten years ahead when the future is uncertain. Some also argued that the subscription amounts mentioned might be slightly inflated to illustrate the point.
Kaushik responded, emphasizing moderation in all things, saying even basic essentials should be consumed mindfully. He clarified that entertainment is acceptable, but unchecked spending on non-essential subscriptions can become a hidden drain. Another reader remarked that the four subscriptions listed are fairly basic and not extravagant. Kaushik countered, explaining that such examples are often drawn from people who are already in a stable financial position.
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