Result: Winner: Lump sum, Difference: +16.5K PLN, Monthly: 1.1K PLN
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DCA or one-time investment?
Find which approach fits your risk tolerance, inflation assumptions, and investment horizon.
Difference between strategies
+PLN 16,507
In real terms: +PLN 13,824
Amount you can deploy either upfront or as recurring contributions.
Long horizons favor lump sums, short horizons often reward DCA.
Results after 6 years
Lump-sum investment
PLN 111,695
Real value: PLN 93,543
DCA (monthly deposits)
PLN 95,188
Real value: PLN 79,718
Monthly contribution: PLN 1,111 | effective rate: 0.46%
Portfolio value over time
Both strategies at the end of each year; DCA pays the same amount every month.
- Lump-sum investment
- DCA (monthly deposits)
Show data as a table
| Year | Lump-sum investment | DCA (monthly deposits) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | PLN 84,576 | PLN 13,743 |
| 2 | PLN 89,414 | PLN 28,272 |
| 3 | PLN 94,528 | PLN 43,632 |
| 4 | PLN 99,935 | PLN 59,871 |
| 5 | PLN 105,652 | PLN 77,038 |
| 6 | PLN 111,695 | PLN 95,188 |
When does each strategy win?
Contrast lump-sum momentum with the stability of DCA.
Best for long horizons
More time in the market favors an upfront deposit, especially when volatility is modest.
- Maximum exposure to potential upside from day one
- Compounding works on the full amount immediately
Best for choppy markets
Regular deposits smooth your entry and soften short-term drawdowns.
- Effective monthly rate: 0.46%
- Reduces peak risk by averaging purchase prices
Actionable signalsWe evaluate real returns, volatility impact, and inflation resilience.
- Risk-adjusted return
- 5.7%
- Expected return is reduced by volatility drag (geometric adjustment).
- Volatility tilt
- 45.7%
- The higher the volatility, the more points DCA earns for smoothing outcomes.
- Pacing premium
- 59.4%
- Short horizons and high volatility strengthen the case for recurring deposits.
Decision checklistUse these signals to align the strategy with your risk tolerance.
- Volatility trims the return to 5.7%
- Inflation cuts real value by 3.0% annually
- DCA shines when automated contributions keep you invested regardless of noise
Plan your pacing