DCA vs Lump Sum: Historical Comparison

Should you invest a windfall all at once or spread it out? This chart compares both strategies using actual S&P 500 returns for any starting year since 1972.

Lump Sum Final: $68,999DCA Final: $5,11,679

Note: Lump sum beats DCA ~66% of the time in rising markets. DCA reduces regret risk but lowers expected returns. Based on actual S&P 500 annual returns.