Rajiv Talreja’s Reality Check: Why 45 Is the New 60 in Corporate India

Image Source: Business Today

Increasingly, professionals approaching their early 40s are witnessing a shocking shift in the fortunes of their careers: discreet exits from corporate headquarters. The traditional retirement milestone of 60 is being stealthily revised by an array of major Indian corporations—now hovering between 42 and 45, says business coach Rajiv Talreja.

The "Payroll Cholesterol" Phenomenon

Talreja warns that employees in this age bracket are being increasingly labeled as "payroll cholesterol"—a term used by finance groups to describe high-fee, mid-level workers who are deemed less dynamic or nimble than lower-cost, younger personnel. With the rise of AI, automation, and leaner business models, companies are eliminating middle management and replacing their positions with younger hires.

The Risk of Unplanned Retirement

Most of the professionals are being pink-slipped without notice, leading to unfunded and unplanned retirements.
Without passive income streams—income from investments, rental property, or entrepreneurship—families might not be able to make ends meet.
Talreja urges employees to start side hustles early, upskill consistently, and establish financial independence before the clock runs out.

A Wider Trend

Investment advisor A.K. Mandhan and Saurabh Mukherjea of Marcellus Investment Managers also echo such apprehensions. Mukherja calls it the "death of salaried employment," stating that even the best performing professionals are being substituted by new, lower-cost talent.

What Can Be Done?

Experts recommend:

Upskilling on emerging technologies and leadership.
Diversifying income through investments or consulting.
Redesigning careers through purpose-based entrepreneurship.

As Talreja puts it, “If you’re in a corporate job and don’t have a portfolio of investments or the skills to start your own business, your family is at massive risk.”

Sources: News18, Business Today, India Today