Archive · 5 Nov 2025
Nikhil Kamath Criticized for Calling MBAs 'Stupid' for 25-Year-Olds
Imagine a very rich businessman named Nikhil said that if you're 25 years old and going to school to get a special business degree called an MBA, you might be a bit silly.
He said this on a video, and lots of people got upset online.
Some people said he doesn't know much about school because he just made money from a stock app.
They also said it's easy to talk down about school when you're already rich, but for many people, school is the only way to get a better job.
Others agreed with him, saying there are faster ways to make money now, like using computers.
But many people defended MBAs, saying they help you learn important skills and show you're smart and determined, and they can help people from poorer families get better jobs.
Zerodha co-founder Nikhil Kamath faced online backlash for calling 25-year-olds pursuing an MBA 'idiots'.
Critics questioned Kamath's authority to judge education, citing his background as a stock-broking platform founder.
Many argued that for individuals from less privileged backgrounds, an MBA is a crucial tool for upward mobility.
Supporters of Kamath's view suggested that pursuing an MBA may not offer the best return on investment compared to alternatives like AI or startups.
Discussions highlighted that top business schools are seen by some as signals of intellect and willpower for potential employers.
- Who
- Nikhil Kamath, co-founder of Zerodha
- What
- Drew widespread criticism for stating that 25-year-olds pursuing an MBA might be 'idiots'
- When
- During a recent Zerodha Ask Me Anything session on YouTube, with reactions surfacing online subsequently.
- Where
- The comments were made on a YouTube podcast, and discussions unfolded on platforms like LinkedIn, Reddit, and X.
- Why
- Kamath's statement has sparked debate about the value of MBAs, the role of education for upward mobility, and the perspective of wealth and privilege.
Critics of Kamath's Statement
Supporters of Kamath's Statement
Credibility and Background
Critics of Kamath's Statement
Critics question Kamath's expertise in education, highlighting he is a stock-broking platform founder. They argue his perspective is influenced by his wealth and privilege, ignoring the role of education for upward mobility for those from humble backgrounds.
Supporters of Kamath's Statement
Supporters agree with Kamath, suggesting that pursuing an MBA at 25 might be a waste of time, money, and energy when other avenues, like leveraging AI or starting a startup, could yield better returns at a fraction of the cost.
Value of MBA
Critics of Kamath's Statement
Many believe an MBA from a top business school signals intellect and willpower, serving as a valuable tool for professional polish and a guaranteed pool of talent for recruiters. For individuals from less privileged backgrounds, an MBA is seen as a crucial pathway for career advancement.
Supporters of Kamath's Statement
Some argue that the returns on an MBA are not as significant compared to alternative investments of time and resources, such as focusing on creative pursuits or entrepreneurial ventures.
- Who
- Nikhil Kamath, Zerodha co-founder
- What
- Commented that 25-year-olds pursuing an MBA might be 'idiots'
- Where
- During a Zerodha Ask Me Anything session on YouTube, and subsequent online discussions on LinkedIn, Reddit, and X
- Kamath's Age
- 39