F.I.R.E: First-Generation Immigrant's Journey from $25 to Financial Independence What can you build from a single suitcase, an expiring visa, and just $25?Freedom. F.I.R.E (Financial Independence, RetireEarly) is the unfiltered, laugh-out-loud memoir of Vadiraj "Vadi"Katti-an immigrant who arrived in America at the height of the 2008 recession with pocket change and built a path to financial independence. Part narrative, part money playbook, it turns midnight coding sessions, stone-leg coffee tables, and gut-wrenching layoffs into a master class on growing wealth the human way. Follow Vadi's journey-from ramen-budget consulting gigs on the East Coast to a roller-coaster ride in Silicon Valley-as he reveals the decisions, setbacks, and mindset shifts that turned frugality into a super-power and compound interest into a best friend. Inside you'll discover: - How a $25 bank balance became a multi-continent real-estate portfolio-without six-figure salaries or lucky stock tips. - The three-step "Visa Hustle" framework for turning any setback into traction. - First-hand lessons on dipping your toes into 401(k)s, FHA loans, and side-hustle math-no guru fluff. - Relationship-tested scripts for talking money with a spouse when you can barely afford take-out. - Why behavior beats IQ in finance-and how to hack your own habits to stay rich, not just look rich. Whether you're a new grad drowning in rejection emails, a mid-career professional chasing F.I.R.E, or an immigrant navigating U.S. money landmines, this book delivers hard-won lessons wrapped in humor and hope. Ready to light your own F.I.R.E? Start turning tiny drops into mighty oceans-one page, one dollar, one brave choice at a time.