So, you’ve probably heard of FIRE, which stands for Financial Independence, Retire Early. But let’s crank that concept up a notch and talk about something called FAT FIRE. What’s this all about? Well, it’s FIRE supercharged – with more comfort, more luxury and yes, a bigger bank balance.
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FAT FIRE isn’t just about quitting your job early; it’s about doing so with a hefty financial cushion that lets you maintain or even enhance your current lifestyle without ever needing to work again. Think regular FIRE but with a few more zeros in your bank account.
Now, you might be wondering, “How much exactly?” While traditional FIRE advocates might aim for a retirement pot of around $1 million, FAT FIRE enthusiasts push that number to $5 million and even beyond. According to a Reddit post earlier this year, some users agree $10 million is "barely cutting it."
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FAT FIRE is all about living off the interest and investment returns without touching the principal amount. This strategy ensures that you can keep up with your current lifestyle indefinitely – traveling, dining out and enjoying those little luxuries that make life sparkle.
According to The Darwinian Doctor, the movement anticipates higher expenses in retirement to live a comfortable life and some recommend saving enough for an annual budget of $100,000 or more. For MoFire, you'd need $200,000 a year saved for retirement spending. As U.S. News Money explains, the exact amount of the nest egg you build will depend on your income and preferences.
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Achieving FAT FIRE isn’t just about dreaming big. It involves some serious financial gymnastics. You’ll need a substantial income stream – whether from a high-paying job, a successful business or both – and a razor-sharp investment strategy. Think stocks, real estate and other income-generating assets that can pump money into your account even while you sleep.
And here's a tip: living a bit below your means now can turbocharge your savings. Maybe you opt for a roommate instead of a solo apartment or stick with your reliable family car a few years longer than you might want. Each dollar you save is a dollar that can be invested toward your FAT FIRE goal.