It is a common misconception that the stock market is similar to a casino and that investing in it goes against Shariah principles.
However, these perceptions are erroneous.
In reality, the stock market is not a casino, and investments made in compliance with Shariah principles are not haram.
In India, around 40% of listed companies follow Shariah guidelines, with the S&P BSE 500 Shariah Index serving as the representative Shariah index.
While some may mistakenly view the stock market as a gamble, it is important to recognize that it is volatile in the short term and that remaining calm is crucial.
Real estate investments also have their challenges, such as difficulty finding buyers and achieving target prices over a long period.
Despite the perceived safety of real estate compared to equity, it is essential to diversify assets in accordance with Shariah guidelines and to be a well-informed investor.
(Author: Irshad Mushtaq)