I see 4 factors that have contributed to your high net worth at such a young age that I do not see in most people I give advice to: Keeping cost of living low by renting a very modest place, investing a high percentage of your net income by limiting discretionary expenses somewhat, investing regularly regardless of market conditions and investing in passive index funds. Most people do not have the discipline and/or knowledge to do any of these.Germack wrote: ↑My living expenses were quite low (~18K/year) for the first 2 years. I continued to life the live of a poor student. Rent was around $450 a month (everything included),cell phone $25 a month and internet $29 and bus pass $50, leaving plenty for travelling and entertainment. Six years ago I moved into a new place with my gf. She did not contribute much to the household for the first 6 years because she was a poor student. No inheriting of a house, we are still renting. Rent is very cheap in Montreal. My living expenses increased slowly over time to around 40k/year now.
I have been familiar with index funds for over 25 years. I am curious how you knew to invest in index funds back in 2004-5 given it does not appear you are in the financial industry. What exactly clued you into them? Did someone tell you or did you just happen upon an article or book by accident and so you kept on reading? Or, was it a friend who said "hey look at this". Also, have you been rebalancing on an annual basis to stay within the targets?