Lumpsum vs FD — where should a one-time amount go?
Both take the same one-time amount, but a Fixed Deposit locks in a guaranteed rate while a lumpsum into equity mutual funds carries market risk in exchange for higher long-run growth potential. Compare both on the same starting amount and horizon.
Lumpsum Calculator vs FD Calculator — 10-year comparison
Opens Compare Lab pre-loaded with both, in your own currency — adjust any input and the chart updates instantly.
Compare now →A one-time amount invested into equity mutual funds all at once, rather than spread out over time.
Best for: A windfall (bonus, inheritance, asset sale) when you don't have another pressing use for it and can leave it invested long-term.
A lump sum deposited with a bank for a fixed tenure at a fixed, guaranteed interest rate.
Best for: Capital you can't afford to risk — an emergency fund, or a short-term goal within a couple of years.
Is a lumpsum riskier than an FD?
Yes — a lumpsum's full amount is exposed to the market from day one, so a downturn right after investing has a bigger impact than it would on a staggered SIP. An FD carries no market risk, but its return is capped at the fixed rate.
Where do these numbers actually come from?
The same calculation engine that powers our standalone calculators and Compare Lab — nothing here is a separate or simplified estimate. Every assumption (rate, tenure, tax) is visible and adjustable once you open the comparison with your own numbers.