From the Chessboard to the Market: 7 Investing Lessons Inspired by Gukesh Dommaraju

The History of Chess and Its Global Journey

Did you know that chess originated in India around the 6th century CE? It began as a game called Chaturanga, meaning “four divisions of the military” – infantry, cavalry, elephants, and chariots. Played on an 8×8 board, Chaturanga is widely recognized as the earliest precursor to modern chess. The game later spread to Persia (modern-day Iran), where it evolved into Shatranj. Persian influences introduced concepts like checkmate, derived from the phrase “Shah Mat” (meaning “the king is dead”).

Chess reached Europe through Spain and Italy around the 10th–11th centuries, where the nobility embraced it and became associated with chivalry and intellectual prowess. By the 15th century, significant changes occurred: the queen became the most powerful piece, and the bishop gained its long-range movement. By the 18th century, key rules such as castling, pawn promotion, and stalemate were standardized, paving the way for competitive chess. The first modern chess tournament took place in London in 1851, marking a new era for the game.

Chess and Equity Investing: A Game of Strategy

Much like chess, equity investing requires strategic thinking, patience, and an ability to anticipate future outcomes. Chess players analyze positions, devise long-term plans, and calculate risks to outmanoeuvre their opponents—skills that are equally critical in the world of investing. Successful investors, like skilled chess players, make calculated moves, diversify their positions (akin to controlling the board), and adapt to changing market conditions, just as chess players adjust to their opponent’s strategy.

India’s growing dominance in chess mirrors its rise in the global economic landscape. As Gukesh helps solidify India’s presence in international chess, the country’s equity markets also emerge as attractive opportunities for global investors. With a thriving startup ecosystem, strong economic growth, and robust industries, India’s investment landscape holds the potential for significant long-term returns, much like a carefully executed endgame strategy in chess.

Chess teaches us that success comes not from impulsive moves but from a series of well-timed, thoughtful decisions. Whether it’s advancing a pawn or selecting a promising stock, the principles remain the same: study the board (or market), anticipate challenges, and execute your plan with precision.

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