How Compounding Works in Mutual Funds

Reviewed by: Fibe Research Team

  • Updated on: 14 Oct 2025
How Compounding Works in Mutual Funds

If you’re wondering ‘what is compounding in mutual fund and how can it help me grow wealth faster?’, you’re in the right place. Many investors know mutual funds can generate returns, but not everyone realises that compounding can make those returns multiply over time.  

Simply put, compounding in mutual funds means your money earns returns, and those returns start earning even more returns. This creates a snowball effect that can turn small, regular investments into a significant corpus. 

Here we will learn how compounding works in mutual funds, the formula behind it and simple tips to maximise its impact. We’ll also answer common questions like whether mutual funds are compounded monthly or annually. 

Compound Interest Formula 

Before we dive deeper, let’s understand the basic formula of compounding: 

A = P (1 + r/n) ^ (n × t) 

Where: 

  • A = Final amount after compounding 
  • P = Principal investment 
  • r = Annual rate of interest 
  • n = Number of times interest is compounded in a year 
  • t = Total time in years 

Example: If you invest ₹10,000 at an annual interest rate of 10% compounded annually, after 5 years your amount becomes: 

A = 10,000 (1 + 0.10/1) ^ (1 × 5) = ₹16,105 

This simple calculation shows the power of compounding in mutual fund investments. The longer your money stays invested, the more it grows exponentially. 

What is Compounding? 

Compounding happens when the money you invest earns returns, and those returns are reinvested to earn even more. Over time, it creates a cycle where your wealth grows faster year after year. 

Simple Example: Imagine you put ₹1,000 into a mutual fund at 10% annual growth. After the first year, it grows to ₹1,100. If you reinvest that ₹100 instead of withdrawing it, the second year’s return is 10% of ₹1,100 which is ₹110 making your total ₹1,210. This continues to grow bigger each year. 

That’s the power of compounding in mutual fund investments; your money doesn’t just grow, it grows on top of growth. 

How Compound Interest Works in Mutual Fund Investments? 

When you invest in mutual funds, you earn returns through dividends and capital appreciation. If you choose the reinvestment option, these returns are added back into your investment instead of being withdrawn. This increases the number of fund units you hold and amplifies your future earnings. 

For example, by reinvesting dividends rather than taking them as cash payouts, you let your investment snowball over time. This is the real beauty of compounding in mutual funds. 

How to Get the Benefits of Compounding? 

To truly benefit from the power of compounding in mutual fund, here are some practical steps: 

  • Start early: The earlier you begin, the more time compounding has to work its magic. 
  • Invest regularly: Even small SIP contributions add up over time. 
  • Reinvest your returns: Don’t withdraw dividends too early. 
  • Stay invested long term: Breaking investments reduce the compounding effect. 
  • Diversify wisely: Spreading across funds can improve returns and reduce risks. 

Impact of Compounding on Your Investments 

The effect of compounding in mutual funds is often underestimated. What seems like small, slow growth in the beginning accelerates over time into significant wealth creation. 

It’s not just your principal that earns returns, but also the returns you’ve already accumulated. That’s why staying invested for longer periods is crucial to unlocking the power of compounding in mutual fund schemes. 

Conclusion 

Compounding works best when you let your money stay invested for the long term. But what if you need funds urgently? Instead of withdrawing your mutual fund investment and interrupting compounding, you can opt for a Loan Against Mutual Funds with Fibe. 

With Fibe, you get: 

  • Instant access to up to ₹10 lakhs 
  • Interest charged only on the amount you use 
  • A quick and hassle-free application process via the Fibe app or website 

This way, your investments continue to grow through the power of compounding in mutual fund while you meet your immediate financial needs with ease. 

FAQs on Compounding in Mutual Funds 

1. Do mutual funds compounded monthly or annually? 

 It depends on the scheme. Some mutual funds compound daily, some monthly, quarterly, or annually. 

2. Does SIP compound monthly? 

 Yes, SIPs are typically compounded monthly because investments are made every month. 

3. Can I track the compounding effect on my mutual fund investments? 

 Yes, you can monitor growth by checking how your reinvested dividends and returns add up over time. 

4. Can I expect the same compounding effect with all mutual funds? 

 Not necessarily. The effect depends on factors like how much you invest, for how long, and the rate of return. 

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