Lumpsum formula
FV = P × (1 + r ÷ n)^(n × t)P = amount invested, r = annual return, n = compounding periods per year, t = years. Mutual-fund returns are usually quoted as annual CAGR, so keep compounding yearly for funds.
Example
₹1,00,000 at 12% for 10 years = 1,00,000 × 1.12¹⁰ = ₹3,10,585. At 15 years it becomes ₹5,47,357 — the "rule of 72" says money doubles every 72 ÷ 12 = 6 years at 12%.
Lumpsum vs SIP
A lumpsum gives your whole amount the full time to compound, so it usually wins when markets rise steadily. A SIP spreads purchases, which reduces the risk of investing everything at a market peak. Many investors put windfalls in as a lumpsum and salary savings as a SIP.