Grow a lumpsum investment over time

Depends on market timing and cash availability. Lumpsum wins when markets are low or trending up; SIP wins when markets are volatile (rupee cost averaging). With idle cash and a long horizon, lumpsum usually outperforms SIP statistically.

A quick mental shortcut: years to double ≈ 72 / annual return rate. At 12% your money doubles in ~6 years; at 8% in ~9 years.

No. Returns depend on the underlying asset (equity, debt, gold, etc.). Past performance is not a guarantee of future returns. This calculator projects assumed returns, not realized ones.

For equity holdings: LTCG above ₹1L per year at 10% (held > 12 months); STCG at 15% otherwise. For debt: gains taxed at slab rate (post Apr-2023). For FDs: interest is fully taxable at slab rate.

Most investors fail at timing. Common alternative: split a large lumpsum into 3-6 monthly tranches (STP / staggered entry) to reduce timing risk.

For 10+ year equity horizons: 10-12% is realistic. For shorter horizons or volatile asset classes: stay conservative. Always model with multiple scenarios.

Simple interest is paid only on the principal; compound interest is paid on principal + accumulated interest. Compound interest grows faster — and the longer the time horizon, the bigger the gap.

Most investments allow early withdrawal, but with consequences. Equity funds: exit load for first year. ELSS: 3-year lockin. PPF: 5-year lockin. FDs: penalty on rate. Plan your liquidity needs separately.