Best Time to Invest in SIP

Investing in a Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) is an essential part of financial planning. It offers a disciplined and convenient way to build wealth over time. A common question among new and seasoned investors is: what is the best time to invest in SIP? This article will explore the best time to invest in a SIP and guide you towards a successful investment journey.

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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 5 Years 7 Years 10 Years
High Growth Fund Max Life
Rating
24.84% 18.57%
16.4%
View Plan
Top 200 Fund Tata AIA
Rating
24.04% 20.03%
16.77%
View Plan
Accelerator Mid-Cap Fund II Bajaj Allianz
Rating
17.43% 10.73%
13.2%
View Plan
Opportunities Fund HDFC Standard
Rating
17.56% 12.29%
13.33%
View Plan
Equity II Fund Canara HSBC Oriental Bank
Rating
11.56% 9.27%
8.64%
View Plan
Grow Money Plus Fund Bharti AXA
Rating
15.75% 13.48%
12.67%
View Plan
Multiplier Birla Sun Life
Rating
18.22% 11.28%
14.04%
View Plan
Opportunities Fund ICICI Prudential
Rating
15.71% 11.97%
10.97%
View Plan
Flexi Growth Fund LIC
Rating
- -
-
View Plan
Virtue II PNB Metlife
Rating
20.71% 15.98%
14.2%
View Plan
Fund rating powered by
Last updated: Jan 2025
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  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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˜Top 5 plans based on annualized premium, for bookings made in the first 6 months of FY 24-25. 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. For a complete list of insurers in India refer to the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India website, www.irdai.gov.in

What is an SIP?

SIP, which stands for Systematic Investment Plan, is a method of investing in mutual funds where an individual invests a fixed amount of money at regular intervals, usually monthly. This approach offers several advantages:

  • Disciplined Investing: SIPs automate your investments, fostering a disciplined approach to saving and investing.
  • Rupee Cost Averaging: By investing regularly, you buy more units when the market is down and fewer units when the market is up, averaging out the cost of your investment over time. This mitigates the risk of investing a lump sum at a market peak.
  • Accessibility: SIPs make investing accessible to everyone, even with limited capital. You can start with relatively small amounts and gradually increase your investment as your income grows.
  • Long-Term Growth: The power of compounding works wonders in SIPs. Over the long term, even small, consistent investments can grow substantially.

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
/Month
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
% Annually
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Monthly Investment ₹22.4 L
View Plans
Top Funds with High Returns (Past 7 Years)
High Growth Fund
16.4%
High Growth Fund
Top 200 Fund
16.77%
Top 200 Fund
Accelerator Mid-Cap Fund II
13.2%
Accelerator Mid-Cap Fund II
Opportunities Fund
13.33%
Opportunities Fund
Equity II Fund
8.64%
Equity II Fund
Accelerator Fund
11.62%
Accelerator Fund
Grow Money Plus Fund
12.67%
Grow Money Plus Fund
Multiplier
14.04%
Multiplier
Equity Top 250 Fund
10.82%
Equity Top 250 Fund
Future Apex Fund
11.19%
Future Apex Fund
Opportunities Fund
10.97%
Opportunities Fund
Frontline Equity Fund
12.76%
Frontline Equity Fund
Virtue II
14.2%
Virtue II
Pension Dynamic Equity Fund
9.39%
Pension Dynamic Equity Fund
Equity Fund
10.45%
Equity Fund
Blue-Chip Equity Fund
9.07%
Blue-Chip Equity Fund

When Is the Best Time to Invest in an SIP?

The answer is simple: The best time to invest in SIP is now. While market timing is often debated, for SIPs, time in the market is more important than timing the market. Here's why:

  1. Start Now, Reap the Rewards of Compounding

    The earlier you start investing, the more time your money has to grow. Compounding, the process of earning returns on your initial investment and the accumulated interest, plays an important role in wealth creation. The longer your investment horizon, the more significant the impact of compounding.

    • For Young Investors (20s-30s): You have the greatest advantage – time. Starting early allows your investments to compound over a longer period, potentially generating substantial wealth for future goals like retirement, a down payment on a house, or children's education.
    • For Mid-Career Professionals (40s-50s): While you may have less time than younger investors, starting a SIP now can still help you achieve your financial goals. Consistent investing can build a comfortable retirement fund.
  2. Stable Income

    Before starting an SIP, ensure you have a stable and reliable source of income. Your SIP contributions should be a comfortable part of your budget, not a financial strain. Assess your income and expenses to determine a realistic amount you can invest regularly without compromising your financial stability.

    Start An Sip Today Watch Your Money Grow Start An Sip Today Watch Your Money Grow
  3. The Beginning of the Month

    Many financial advisors recommend starting your SIP at the beginning of the month, ideally soon after receiving your salary. This approach offers several benefits:

    • Financial Discipline: Investing early in the month prioritizes your savings and prevents impulsive spending.
    • Avoid Procrastination: Delaying your SIP can lead to missed opportunities and reduced returns.
    • Rupee Cost Averaging: Consistent investments at the start of the month allow you to participate in rupee cost averaging, buying more units when the market is down and fewer units when it's up.
  4. Lump Sum Gains and Special Occasions

    While regular SIPs are ideal for consistent investing, you can also consider starting a SIP when you receive a lump sum of money, such as a bonus, inheritance, or tax refund. This can give your investment portfolio a boost.

    Special occasions, like birthdays, anniversaries, or festivals, can also be a good time to start a SIP. It can be a symbolic way to mark the occasion and invest in your future.

  5. Goal-Oriented Investing

    Investing with a specific financial goal in mind can be a powerful motivator. Whether you're saving for a down payment, retirement, or your child's education, having a clear objective helps you determine the amount you need to invest and stay committed to your SIP.

Other Important Things to Consider Before Investing in SIP 

Here are some other factors to consider:

    • Risk Tolerance: Understand your risk tolerance before investing in mutual funds or other market-linked funds. Choose funds that match your risk appetite.
    • Financial Goals: Define your financial goals and choose funds that can help you achieve them.
    • Fund Performance: Research the past performance of the mutual funds you're considering, but remember that past performance is not indicative of future results.
    • Expense Ratio: Consider the expense ratio of the mutual fund, as it can affect your overall returns.
benefits-sip benefits-sip

Conclusion

The best time to invest in SIP is not about timing the market; it's about starting as early as possible and staying invested for the long term. Consistency, discipline, and a goal-oriented approach are key to successful SIP investing. So, don't wait for the "perfect" moment. Start your SIP today and embark on your journey towards financial freedom.

FAQs

  • Can I start a SIP with a small amount?

    Yes, many mutual funds allow you to start a SIP with relatively small amounts, making it accessible to a wide range of investors.
  • How often should I invest in a SIP?

    Usually, SIPs are done monthly. However, some funds may offer weekly or quarterly options. Monthly SIPs are the most common and often recommended.
  • What is Rupee Cost Averaging?

    Rupee Cost Averaging is the process of investing a fixed sum of money at regular intervals, regardless of the market conditions. This strategy helps you buy more units when prices are low and fewer units when prices are high, averaging out the cost of your investment over time.

˜Top 5 plans based on annualized premium, for bookings made in the first 6 months of FY 24-25. 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. 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.
**Returns are based on past 10 years’ fund performance data (Fund Data Source: Value Research).

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