
A Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) allows investors to build wealth steadily through regular monthly contributions. The same amount invested for different durations can produce vastly different results due to the power of compounding.
Here is a simple comparison showing how a ₹20,000 monthly SIP grows at an expected return of 12% over three distinct timeframes: 3, 10 and 20 years.
An investor contributing ₹20,000 every month for 3 years invests a total of ₹7,20,000. At an expected return of 12%, the total value of the investment becomes ₹8,70,153, resulting in ₹1,50,153 as estimated returns.
This example highlights that in shorter durations, the compounding effect is limited. Most of the growth comes from contributions rather than returns. It helps develop saving discipline, but does not lead to significant wealth creation.
If the same SIP of ₹20,000 continues for 10 years, the total invested amount rises to ₹24,00,000. With an expected return of 12%, the corpus grows to ₹46,46,782, resulting in ₹22,46,782 as estimated returns.
Here, the compounding effect becomes more visible. The estimated gain is almost equal to the total invested amount. This phase shows how time allows returns to compound, making the overall growth curve steeper compared to the initial years.
Extending the same ₹20,000 SIP for 20 years makes a remarkable difference. The total investment reaches ₹48,00,000, while the estimated value of the investment becomes ₹1,99,82,958, resulting in ₹1,51,82,958 as estimated returns.
This demonstrates the exponential nature of compounding. Returns begin generating their own returns, and time amplifies this effect. Staying invested longer transforms disciplined saving into substantial wealth creation.
Use the SIP Calculator to estimate how your monthly investments can grow over time and understand the impact of compounding on your wealth creation journey.
Read More:SIP Calculator: ₹5,100 Monthly for 15 Years vs ₹11,000 for 7 Years – Which Gives Better Returns?
These three scenarios clearly reveal that the time horizon plays a decisive role in determining how much wealth is created. While short-term SIPs may cater to limited goals, long-term commitments allow the compounding effect to work at its full potential.
The lesson is straightforward: the longer the investment continues, the greater the growth multiplier. Regular investments combined with time and discipline can turn modest monthly contributions into significant long-term wealth.
Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities or companies mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation or investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.
Investments in securities are subject to market risks. Read all related documents carefully before investing.
Published on: Oct 24, 2025, 3:57 PM IST

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