With the launch of Apple’s new iPhone 17 Pro Max, a familiar debate has resurfaced — should you spend on luxury or invest for the future? The 256 GB model of the phone is priced at around ₹1.5 lakh, making it one of the most expensive smartphones available in India.

For most buyers, the easiest way to afford the device is through monthly EMIs. However, what if instead of paying those instalments, you chose to invest the same amount each month? A simple comparison shows how that decision could significantly boost your savings over time.

INVESTING INSTEAD OF PURCHASING

• If the iPhone 17 Pro’s cost is broken down into a 36-month EMI, it comes to approximately ₹4,200 per month. According to Trivesh D, Chief Operating Officer at Tradejini, investing this same amount in a Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) could generate notable returns in just three years.
• “Redirecting your spending can create a real impact. For instance, if you invested ₹1.5 lakh over three years through an SIP of ₹4,100 per month, and the mutual fund yielded an average annual return of 12%, the total value could reach about ₹1.76 lakh — giving a profit of roughly ₹29,000,” Trivesh explained.
• He further added that higher-priced gadgets translate to higher investment potential.
• “If you were to invest the cost of a premium model worth ₹2.3 lakh instead, your gains might go up to ₹45,000 or more over the same period,” he noted.

WHY INVESTING IS THE SMARTER MOVE

• Trivesh pointed out that while splurging on premium gadgets or luxury items can bring short-term happiness, investments offer long-term financial growth.
• “Every rupee spent is a rupee not invested. Owning the latest phone feels great, but the real price goes beyond what’s on the tag. Investments, however, help build wealth, ensure financial security, and prepare you for future uncertainties,” he said.
• For those just starting out, he recommends diversified mutual funds like flexi-cap or multi-cap funds, which allow fund managers to balance investments across large, mid, and small-cap stocks depending on market conditions.
• This diversification helps maintain growth even during market volatility.
• He also mentioned that aggressive hybrid funds are a solid choice for moderate investors.
• “These funds combine equity and debt instruments, offering both growth potential and stability,” he added.

CHOOSING BETWEEN NOW AND LATER

• Ultimately, the decision between spending and investing depends on personal goals and priorities.
• “If a new smartphone genuinely enhances your productivity or lifestyle, it may be justified,” said Trivesh. “But for long-term wealth creation and financial security, SIPs or stock market investments will always yield better outcomes.”
• He concluded with a reminder for consumers to reflect before making big purchases:
• “Ask yourself — do I want immediate satisfaction or future financial freedom? The choices you make today determine your financial future.”