How this ex-Microsoft techie retired at 39 with ₹30 crore
What's the story
Former techie Jamal Robinson has set an inspiring example of financial discipline. Robinson, who has worked for Microsoft, Amazon, IBM, and Intel, managed to amass a fortune of over $3.5 million (around ₹30 crore) by saving up to 90% of his salary for years. Now based in Dubai, Robinson's journey from a minimum-wage job to a millionaire is truly remarkable.
Retirement plan
Early retirement: A goal set in teenage years
Robinson's dream to retire early was sparked at 17 when he observed that many adults weren't happy with their jobs. He told CNBC Make It, "In my mind, I always thought that it made the most sense to compress that amount of time in my life." The dream was planted in his teenage years and astonishingly, he accomplished it six years before his target.
Career journey
From humble beginnings to tech industry success
Robinson's early life was defined by financial struggles, which molded his saving and investing approach. He started working at 14, picking up jobs such as a church janitor. While pursuing computer engineering at Tennessee Tech University, he worked full-time. His tech career began in the energy sector before moving into software development, where his skills and work ethic took him to top tech firms.
Financial discipline
A commitment to saving despite a lucrative salary
Despite earning a lucrative salary in the tech industry, Robinson stayed committed to saving. His annual income increased from $41,000 to over $1 million over the years. However, instead of treating himself, he concentrated on upping his savings rate. "I went from saving 30% to 50% to 80% and up to nearly 90%," he revealed. For Robinson, saving wasn't just a habit but a part of his journey toward financial independence.
Retirement life
Early retirement and a new life in Dubai
In 2024, at 39, Robinson retired as a tech leader specializing in generative AI. Despite his career being on an upward trajectory, he remained steadfast in his retirement goal. By the time he retired, Robinson had accumulated enough wealth to live off his investments using the 4% rule. Now living in Dubai, he enjoys a lifestyle that reflects both his careful planning and new perspective on money.
Information
Take a look at the techie's spendings
Robinson usually spends between $9,000 and $12,000 per month, staying well under his annual budget of $185,000. His expenses cover housing, health and wellness, food, and entertainment, with a disciplined approach to financial management.