SIP vs. PPF

When it comes to long-term investment options, Systematic Investment Plans (SIP) and Public Provident Fund (PPF) are two popular choices among Indian investors. Both offer unique benefits but cater to different financial goals and risk appetites. While SIP is a method of investing in mutual and market-linked securities, PPF provides a safe, government-backed option with assured returns and tax benefits. Understanding the key differences between SIP and PPF can help investors make informed decisions based on their financial objectives, risk tolerance, and time horizon.

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SIP Insurance Plan Benefits
Start SIP with as low as ₹1000
Start SIP with as low as ₹1000
No hidden charges
No hidden charges
Save upto ₹46,800 in Tax
Save upto ₹46,800 in Taxunder section 80C^
Zero LTCG Tax
Zero LTCG Tax
Disciplined & worry-free investing
Disciplined & worry-free investing

  • Insurance Companies
  • Mutual Funds
Returns
Fund Name 3 Years 5 Years 10 Years
Virtue II PNB Metlife 18.68% 25.83%
16.48%
View Plan
Pure Equity Birla Sun Life 17.56% 21.84%
15.07%
View Plan
Large Cap Equity Fund Tata AIA 18.45% 21.82%
14.88%
View Plan
Grow Money Plus Fund Bharti AXA 14.74% 18.58%
14.12%
View Plan
Pure Stock Fund Bajaj Allianz 17.34% 20.53%
14.04%
View Plan
Diversified Equity Fund HDFC Standard 14.77% 17.79%
13.96%
View Plan
Growth Super Fund Max Life 15.5% 17.5%
12.83%
View Plan
Equity Fund SBI 14.88% 16.53%
12.1%
View Plan
Bluechip Fund ICICI Prudential 13.23% 15.89%
11.33%
View Plan
Growth Plus Fund Canara HSBC Oriental Bank 12.92% 13.89%
10.36%
View Plan

Updated as of Dec 2024

Compare more funds

  Returns
Fund Name 3 Years 5 Years 10 Years
Active Fund QUANT 24.92% 31.48%
21.87%
Flexi Cap Fund PARAG PARIKH 20.69% 26.41%
19.28%
Large and Mid-Cap Fund EDELWEISS 22.34% 24.29%
17.94%
Equity Opportunities Fund KOTAK 24.64% 25.01%
19.45%
Large and Midcap Fund MIRAE ASSET 19.74% 24.32%
22.50%
Flexi Cap Fund PGIM INDIA 14.75% 23.39%
-
Flexi Cap Fund DSP 18.41% 22.33%
16.91%
Emerging Equities Fund CANARA ROBECO 20.05% 21.80%
15.92%
Focused fund SUNDARAM 18.27% 18.22%
16.55%

Updated as of Dec 2024

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What is SIP?

SIP stands for Systematic Investment Plan, a method of investing in mutual funds or market-linked funds. It allows investors to invest a fixed amount of money at regular intervals (e.g., monthly, quarterly) instead of making a lump-sum investment. SIPs are a popular choice for long-term wealth creation and disciplined savings.

SIP Calculator

I want to invest Pro Tip
Financial experts suggest that a person should invest 10-15% of their monthly income for long-term financial growth
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I want to invest for Pro Tip
Financial experts suggest that individuals should ideally invest for a period of 5 to 10 years, or even longer, to maximize the benefits of compounding and navigate market fluctuations effectively
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Expected return Pro Tip
Top 25% of investors consistently generate more than 12% return
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Total Wealth ₹22.4 L
View Plans
I want to save
I want to invest for Pro Tip
Financial experts suggest that individuals should ideally invest for a period of 5 to 10 years, or even longer, to maximize the benefits of compounding and navigate market fluctuations effectively
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Expected return Pro Tip
Top 25% of investors consistently generate more than 12% return
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Monthly Investment ₹22.4 L
View Plans
Top Funds with High Returns (Past 7 Years)
High Growth Fund
19.3%
High Growth Fund
Accelerator Mid-Cap Fund II
15.61%
Accelerator Mid-Cap Fund II
Opportunities Fund
15.48%
Opportunities Fund

Who Should Invest in SIP Plans?

Below are the people who should consider investing in SIP Plans:

  • SIPs are great for individuals new to investing who want a structured and less risky way to grow wealth.

  • Ideal for those with limited knowledge of market trends.

  • Regular income earners can align SIPs with their monthly budget to save consistently.

  • Helps build discipline in saving and investing.

  • Perfect for those with long-term financial goals like buying a house, funding education, or retirement planning.

  • Benefits from the power of compounding and rupee cost averaging over time.

  • SIPs allow gradual entry into the market, reducing the impact of volatility.

  • Ensures diversification and stability compared to lump-sum investments.

  • The earlier one starts, the greater the wealth accumulated due to compounding.

  • Helps create a habit of disciplined saving at the start of their careers.

start-an-sip-today-watch-your-money-grow start-an-sip-today-watch-your-money-grow

What is Public Provident Fund (PPF)?

The Public Provident Fund (PPF) is a long-term investment scheme introduced by the Government of India to encourage small savings while offering attractive returns. It is a tax-saving instrument that allows individuals to invest a minimum of â‚ą500 and a maximum of â‚ą1.5 lakh annually, with contributions eligible for tax deductions under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act. PPF accounts have a lock-in period of 15 years, making them ideal for building a secure financial corpus for the future. The scheme provides a fixed interest rate, compounded annually, and the maturity amount, along with the interest earned, is entirely tax-free. Backed by government security, PPF is a low-risk investment option suitable for those seeking a safe avenue to grow their wealth steadily while enjoying tax benefits.

Who Should Invest in PPF?

Here’s who should consider investing in PPF:

  • Ideal for those seeking a low-risk investment avenue as PPF is government-backed, ensuring capital safety.

  • Those aiming to save taxes under Section 80C can benefit from PPF’s tax-exempt status for contributions, interest, and maturity amounts.

  • Individuals with long-term financial goals, such as retirement planning, children’s education, or creating a financial safety net, can leverage PPF’s 15-year lock-in period.

  • Employees looking for a secure investment to supplement EPF (Employee Provident Fund) can use PPF for added retirement benefits.

  • Parents can open PPF accounts for their minor children, ensuring disciplined savings for their future needs.

  • Young earners who want to build a habit of consistent savings with guaranteed returns can benefit from PPF’s long-term growth.

SIP vs PPF: Difference Between Them

Feature SIP (Systematic Investment Plan) PPF (Public Provident Fund)
Investment Type Market-linked investment in mutual funds Government-backed savings scheme
Risk Moderate to high, depending on the chosen fund Low risk, government-backed
Return Market-linked, potential for higher returns but subject to market fluctuations Fixed interest rate, lower but guaranteed returns
Liquidity Flexible, you can redeem your investment at any time Less liquid, partial withdrawals allowed after 5 years, full withdrawal after 15 years
Tax Benefits Tax benefits under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act, up to a maximum of â‚ą1.5 lakh per year Tax benefits under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act, up to a maximum of â‚ą1.5 lakh per year
Minimum Investment Varies depending on the chosen fund â‚ą500 per year
Maximum Investment No limit â‚ą1.5 lakh per year
Suitability For those seeking higher returns and willing to take on moderate to high risk For those prioritizing safety and guaranteed returns

SIP or PPF: Which is Better?

The answer to this question depends on your individual financial goals, risk tolerance, and investment horizon. If you are a risk-averse investor seeking guaranteed returns, PPF may be a suitable option. However, if you are willing to take on moderate to high risk for the potential of higher returns, SIPs could be a better choice. It is advisable to consult with a financial advisor to determine the best investment strategy for your specific needs.

SIP Calculator vs PPF Calculator

  1. What is a SIP Calculator?

    A SIP Calculator is an online tool designed to estimate the potential returns on investments made through a Systematic Investment Plan (SIP). By entering details such as the monthly investment amount, expected annual return rate, and investment duration, the calculator helps investors determine the corpus they can accumulate over time. It simplifies financial planning by showing the impact of regular investments and the power of compounding, making it easier for investors to set and achieve their financial goals.

    start-small-&-build-your-wealth-for-a-brighter-tomorrow start-small-&-build-your-wealth-for-a-brighter-tomorrow
  2. What is a PPF Calculator?

    A PPF Calculator is a digital tool that helps investors estimate the maturity amount and interest earned from a Public Provident Fund (PPF) account. Users input their annual investment amount, the prevailing PPF interest rate, and the investment tenure (typically 15 years). The calculator computes the final corpus while factoring in annual compounding. It aids individuals in understanding how consistent contributions to PPF can grow into a secure financial corpus over time, ensuring better financial planning for long-term goals.

Conclusion

Choosing between SIP and PPF depends on individual priorities, such as risk appetite, investment tenure, and financial goals. SIP is ideal for those seeking higher returns and can tolerate market volatility, while PPF is best suited for conservative investors who value safety and tax-free assured returns. A well-balanced portfolio may include both options, leveraging the growth potential of SIP and the stability of PPF to achieve diversified financial goals.

FAQs

  • Is SIP riskier than PPF?

    Yes, SIP is riskier as it is linked to market performance, and returns are not guaranteed. In contrast, PPF is a risk-free investment backed by the government.
  • Can I withdraw money early from SIP or PPF?

    • SIP: You can withdraw or stop investing at any time, though it may impact your financial goals.

    • PPF: Partial withdrawals are allowed after the sixth year, subject to specific conditions. Premature closure is permitted in rare cases like medical emergencies.

  • How do SIP and PPF perform during market fluctuations?

    • SIP: The performance of SIP depends on market conditions. During market downturns, SIPs benefit from rupee cost averaging by buying more units at lower prices, which can result in higher returns when markets recover.

    • PPF: PPF is not affected by market fluctuations as its returns are fixed and government-guaranteed, ensuring stability even during economic uncertainties.

  • Can NRIs invest in SIP and PPF?

    • SIP: Yes, NRIs can invest in SIPs in India through their NRE or NRO accounts.

    • PPF: NRIs cannot open new PPF accounts. However, they can continue contributing to an existing PPF account until its maturity.

Policybazaar does not endorse, rate or recommend any particular insurer or insurance product offered by any insurer. This list of plans listed here comprise of insurance products offered by all the insurance partners of Policybazaar. The sorting is based on past 10 years’ fund performance (Fund Data Source: Value Research). For a complete list of insurers in India refer to the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India website, www.irdai.gov.in
*All savings are provided by the insurer as per the IRDAI approved insurance plan. Standard T&C Apply
^The tax benefits under Section 80C allow a deduction of up to ₹1.5 lakhs from the taxable income per year and 10(10D) tax benefits are for investments made up to ₹2.5 Lakhs/ year for policies bought after 1 Feb 2021. Tax benefits and savings are subject to changes in tax laws.
¶Long-term capital gains (LTCG) tax (12.5%) is exempted on annual premiums up to 2.5 lacs.
~Source - Google Review Rating available on:- http://bit.ly/3J20bXZ
^^The information relating to mutual funds presented in this article is for educational purpose only and is not meant for sale. Investment is subject to market risks and the risk is borne by the investor. Please consult your financial advisor before planning your investments.

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