Finance · Investments & Markets

Lump Sum vs Dollar-Cost Averaging Calculator

Compare investing all capital immediately with equal end-of-month instalments.

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Quick guide

How to use this calculator

  1. Enter the cash flows, values, rates, timing, or portfolio assumptions named in the fields.
  2. Use one consistent period and currency convention throughout the scenario.
  3. Read the calculator-specific model limits before interpreting the result.

Calculation method

Calculation method

Lump sum = capital(1+r)^n; instalments = (capital/n)[((1+r)^n−1)/r].

Model, simulation, root, square-root, and compounding outputs are estimates and are visibly marked approximate.

Worked example

Worked example

12,000 invested now is compared with twelve 1,000 end-of-month instalments under the same monthly return.

Lump sum = capital(1+r)^n; instalments = (capital/n)[((1+r)^n−1)/r].

Supported inputs

Precision and limits

Visible input limits

Inputs support up to 12 decimal places and lists support at most 1,200 rows. Iteration and simulation bounds are displayed in their fields.

International scope

No exchange, tax system, reporting standard, currency, fund rule, trading calendar, or market convention is selected automatically.

Decision boundary

Outputs are entered scenarios, not valuations, forecasts, risk limits, executable trades, suitability decisions, or recommendations.

Calculator-specific assumptions

This deterministic comparison assumes one constant monthly return and excludes fees, taxes, and market-path variation.