Why should you consider increasing your SIP every year?

Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs) offer an affordable and convenient approach to building wealth for many individuals. These powerful tools allow you to invest a fixed amount at regular intervals into a mutual fund, utilizing the power of compounding over time. However, merely starting an SIP isn't sufficient. In fact, many individuals overlook the need to actively manage their SIP investments and ignore potential growth opportunities. So, how can you avoid these pitfalls? This is where boosting your SIP every year comes in.

• Table of contents

1. What does boosting an SIP mean?
2. Why should we boost SIP every year?
3. How much should you boost?
4. Tips for smooth boosting

What does boosting an SIP mean?

Boosting your SIP is like giving your investment a growth surge. It means increasing your monthly or yearly contribution to your chosen mutual fund scheme. While the minimum SIP amount is usually Rs. 500, you may need to scale it up if you are aiming to meet bigger financial goals. For example, if you receive a pay hike or an office bonus, you can consider diverting a part of the extra money into your SIP. This simple step can significantly accelerate your financial journey over time.
Additionally, using an SIP mutual fund calculator can help you estimate the potential increase in your final corpus as you increase your contributions.

Why should we boost SIP every year?

Expand your portfolio: SIP mutual funds function on the principle of compound interest. In this model, you earn returns on the previous principal amount as well as the accumulated interest. The compounding phenomenon can lead to significantly elevated returns. For instance, investing just Rs. 5,000 per month in equities earning 12% annually can potentially compound to around Rs. 52 lakh in 20 years. But persisting for another 10 years can result in a corpus of nearly Rs. 2 crore.

Beat inflation: Over time, inflation erodes the purchasing power of money, diminishing the value of savings. To counteract this effect, it is crucial to increase investments. Traditional savings plans may not provide sufficient protection against inflation. Thus, increasing your SIP establishes a financial buffer, safeguarding the value of savings. You must take charge of your future by utilising SIP boosts and proactively staying ahead of inflation

Reach goals faster: Whether it's a dream vacation, child's education, or a comfortable retirement, boosting your SIP brings you closer to achieving your financial aspirations sooner. Investors can increase their periodic SIP contributions and expedite meeting goals through compounding.

Adapt to income growth: As your career progresses and your income rises, your investments should also increase. Boosting your SIP reflects this growth and keeps your financial plan on track.

How much should you boost?

The ideal boost amount depends on your individual circumstances. A good starting point is to aim for at least a 5-10% increase every year. Remember, even small increases can snowball into significant gains over time.

Tips for smooth boosting

Review your finances annually: Assess your income, expenses, and savings to determine a comfortable boost amount.

Set an automatic increase: Many platforms allow you to automate SIP increases, making it a seamless process. Additionally, you can use a Step Up SIP Calculator to see how increasing your contributions annually can impact your long-term investment growth.

Start small, scale up later: If you're new to boosting, begin with a smaller increase and gradually raise it as you get comfortable.

Conclusion

Remember, boosting your SIP is a deliberate choice to accelerate your financial journey. By taking advantage of compound interest and adapting to your evolving needs, you can build a secure and prosperous future. Start small, boost smart, and watch your wealth soar!

FAQs:

Is boosting my SIP the same as increasing my investment amount?

Yes, both terms essentially mean increasing the amount you invest through your SIP. However, ‘boosting’ emphasises the annual or periodic nature of the increase.

Can I boost my SIP by any amount?

Technically, yes. However, it's crucial to ensure the boost is aligned with your financial situation and doesn't put undue strain on your budget.

What if I can't boost my SIP every year?

Don't worry! Consistency is key, and even maintaining your current SIP amount will build wealth over time. Focus on contributing regularly and consider boosting when your finances allow.

Mutual Fund investments are subject to market risks, read all scheme related documents carefully. This document should not be treated as endorsement of the views/opinions or as investment advice. This document should not be construed as a research report or a recommendation to buy or sell any security. This document is for information purpose only and should not be construed as a promise on minimum returns or safeguard of capital. This document alone is not sufficient and should not be used for the development or implementation of an investment strategy. The recipient should note and understand that the information provided above may not contain all the material aspects relevant for making an investment decision. Investors are advised to consult their own investment advisor before making any investment decision in light of their risk appetite, investment goals and horizon. This information is subject to change without any prior notice.