Compare lump-sum investing versus gradual monthly contributions.
Got a windfall? Should you deploy it all at once, or dollar-cost-average it in over months? This tool runs both strategies side-by-side for your scenario.
Core Formula
Compare: Lump Sum FV vs DCA Monthly FV over same period
Which strategy wins statistically?
Studies show lump-sum outperforms DCA roughly 2/3 of the time over long horizons, because markets generally rise over time.
Why do people still prefer DCA?
Psychology. DCA reduces the regret of investing right before a crash. For large emotional windfalls, DCA can be the rational emotional choice.
* All calculations above are theoretical estimates. Actual returns vary based on market performance, fees, taxes, inflation, and economic factors. This tool is for educational purposes only — not financial advice.
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Dollar-Cost Averaging and lump-sum investing are often framed as rivals, but the 2026 data tells a more nuanced story. One wins more often — but the other protects against behavioral mistakes that destroy more wealth than market volatility ever could.
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Ads are from third parties. CompoundFig does not endorse advertised products and is not responsible for their claims. Our calculators remain independent educational estimates.