Explained: How the 8-4-3 rule of compounding can help you reach Rs 1 crore sooner
Have you ever wondered how long it takes to build a Rs 1 crore corpus? The answer depends on two key factors—how much you invest
Have you ever wondered how long it takes to build a Rs 1 crore corpus? The answer depends on two key factors—how much you invest and the returns you earn. While the target may seem daunting, disciplined investing and the power of compounding can help you achieve it over time.Let’s explore how compounding can accelerate your wealth growth. Unlike simple interest, which is earned only on the initial investment, compound interest generates returns on both your principal and the accumulated interest, allowing your investments to grow faster over time. Also Read | Technology sector funds dominate July returns; 9 mutual funds deliver over 10% gains. Should investors ride the rally? Rule 8-4-3 of compoundingYou can effortlessly grow your wealth by following the 8-4-3 rule of compounding. Here's how it works: Suppose you invest a lump sum of Rs 21,250 every month in an instrument offering a 12% annual return, compounded yearly. In just eight years, your investment would grow to Rs 33.37 lakh.This is where the magic of compounding comes into play.
The next Rs 33 lakh will take just half the time—only four years. The third Rs 33.33 lakh will accumulate even faster, in just three years. As a result, in 15 years, you can build a corpus of Rs 1 crore.By the end of the 21st year, your savings will grow to Rs 2.22 crore—doubling your Rs 1 crore in just six years.By the 22nd year, it will take only one year to accumulate Rs 33 lakh, all thanks to the power of compounding. Keep in mind that this calculation is based on annual compounding, where interest is added once a year. 132781501Period of compounding may change with returnThe higher the return on your investment, the faster your wealth will grow. However, if the returns are lower, the compounding process will take longer. For example, investing in fixed-income instruments or debt products may yield lower returns. If you earn a 7% annual interest (compounded quarterly) on such an investment, you may need to invest a higher amount—Rs 22,000 per month.
As a result, your corpus will reach Rs 33.09 lakh in nine years, grow to Rs 69.89 lakh in the following six years, and surpass Rs 1 crore in the next four years.Also Read | Wealth creators: 12 equity mutual funds turn Rs 1,000 SIP to nearly Rs 3 crore since their inception Choose the frequency correctlyWhen investing, it’s crucial to consider the frequency of compounding, especially with fixed-income investments. While some schemes offer annual compounding, others calculate interest multiple times a year. For example, in a bank fixed deposit (FD), interest is compounded quarterly.If interest is compounded quarterly (four times a year), a monthly investment of Rs 21,250 with an annual return of 12% grows to Rs 34.14 lakh in five years. With monthly compounding, the same investment reaches Rs 34.32 lakh in eight years. When investing larger amounts, the frequency of compounding significantly impacts returns—the more frequent the compounding, the faster your money grows.Many people worry that saving a large sum takes too long.