When it comes to investing, many investors face the dilemma of whether to opt for an SIP or a lump sum investment.
Which one has the potential to offer higher returns? Which is the safer investment method?
In this blog, we’ll explore both sides of the debate and comprehensively compare SIPs and Lumpsum Investments.
SIP is a method of investing in which investors commit to invest a fixed amount of money in a mutual fund/stock at regular intervals, such as
With this investment method, investors don’t have to worry about market timing or predict the stock market's future movements to make investment decisions. This is because SIPs take advantage of the Rupee cost averaging factor.
This principle averages out the cost of investments; for instance, during market dips (falls), more MF units are allocated, while when the market is up, fewer MF units are given to investors.
This way, short-term market fluctuations or volatility don’t affect the returns on investment in the long run.
But the most important question is, How do SIPs generate returns?
The answer is via compounding effect! We are using the SIP calculator to help you understand the magic of compounding.
Case 1)
Monthly Investment: ₹5,000
Expected returns: 12% p.a.
Investment Timeline: 5 years
Case 2)
Monthly Investment: ₹5,000
Expected returns: 12% p.a.
Investment Timeline: 10 years
Case 3)
Monthly Investment: ₹5,000
Expected returns: 12% p.a.
Investment Timeline: 15 years
Case 4)
Monthly Investment: ₹5,000
Expected returns: 12% p.a.
Investment Timeline: 20 years
The returns
By investing ₹5,000 monthly (a total of 20 lakhs) in a disciplined manner, you can have ₹49,95,740 after 20 years.
In short,
The longer your investment, the more your money grows; all credit goes to compounding.
If you are a new investor and don’t know much about the stock market, SIPs are the best methods to begin your investing journey. There is no cap on investment amount as well. One can start with ₹100 and increase it as per the income flow.
If you are not good at saving money, start investing in SIPs because they demand regular investment. Knowing that a specific amount will automatically be deducted from your bank account, you won’t spend it elsewhere. This way, you can make a habit of saving money and simultaneously build a corpus for your future.
SIPs are flexible and adjustable as per user needs.
For instance, if you are regularly investing ₹1000 every month but one month, you cannot contribute the full amount for some reason. In that case, you can simply adjust the amount for that month as per your needs.
Similarly, you can also increase the amount anytime, depending on your cash flow and income.
Many investors, especially those who are new to investing, often think they will start investing only when the market is rising.
However, with SIP investments, you don’t need to worry about timing the market because it averages out the cost of investments. In fact, investing when the market is down can be more fruitful as you can buy more mutual fund units at lower prices and, ultimately, greater returns.
SIPs offer diversified investment options.
With Multi SIP/ Combo SIP, one can simultaneously invest in different types of funds, such as large-cap, small-cap, mid-cap, ETFs, and debt funds.
In a lump sum (one-time) investment, a large amount of money is invested all at once. Unlike SIPs, where small amounts are invested regularly, it requires a huge sum of money to be invested upfront. The returns from lump sum investment depend largely on the amount and how stock markets are performing.
For instance, ₹12,00,000 invested as a lump sum over 20 years can yield massive returns of ₹1,03,75,552 if the markets are doing well.
In Lump Sum investment, you are only required to invest a large sum at once, and there’s no need for ongoing contributions. Just make one investment and let it work for you.
Got a bonus, inheritance, or lump sum savings? If yes, a lump sum investment can be the best way to make your extra money work and generate returns. Also, it can give your portfolio a strong initial boost.
In lump sum investing, the entire amount is invested altogether, and there are no investment gaps. Your investment will actively earn returns from day one without any delays.
Below are some of the key differences between SIP and lumpsum investment.
Parameter |
SIP |
Lump Sum Investment |
Investment Approach |
A sum of money is invested regularly at fixed intervals. |
A large amount of money is invested all at once |
Market Timing |
No need to time the market; it averages out cost over time. |
Requires timing the market for maximum returns |
Risk |
Lower risk |
Higher risk |
Flexibility |
Flexible; can adjust amount or pause payments |
Less flexible as the entire investment is made upfront |
Market Exposure |
Gradual exposure; benefits from rupee cost averaging |
Immediate full exposure to market fluctuations |
Contributions |
Requires regular contributions |
One-time investment |
Investment Horizon |
Suitable for long-term investing |
Can be suitable for both short-term and long-term investing depending on market conditions |
You may also be interested to know |
|
1. |
Index Funds Vs ETFs |
2. |
Equity vs Debt Mutual Funds |
3. |
CAGR vs Absolute Return |
4. |
Fixed Deposits vs Mutual Funds |
5. |
Liquid Funds vs FD |
To conclude, both SIPs and lump sum investments offer unique advantages to investors with different financial situations and risk appetites. SIPs offer the benefit of disciplined, gradual investing and are well-suited for those with regular incomes. On the other hand, Lump sum investments are ideal for those with substantial capital ready to invest.
Regardless of the method you choose, what matters most is to start investing as early as possible to build wealth.