## Build the number from spending, not from envy
Annual must-spend × multiplier (often 25 under a 4% sketch) via FIRE number and 4% rule nest egg. If you plan early retirement, stress Safe withdrawal at 3–3.5% too. Healthcare bridge matters in some countries — do not ignore it.
## Location is a lever
Geo-arbitrage retirement cost of living changes the corpus more than another 0.2% portfolio tweak. Years to goal should use a spending number you would actually live on in that place — in AED.
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