Mutual Fund Returns Calculator
Compute absolute return, CAGR, and final maturity for both SIP and lumpsum mutual fund investments — instantly.
Calculate MF Returns
Understanding Mutual Fund Returns
Mutual fund returns measure how much your investment has grown over a chosen period. The three measures every investor should know:
- Absolute Return = (FV − PV) / PV × 100. Best for periods under 1 year.
- CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate) = (FV/PV)1/n − 1. Best for multi-year horizons.
- XIRR — for irregular cash flows like SIP top-ups or partial redemptions.
This calculator returns the maturity value, absolute return, and CAGR for both SIP and Lumpsum modes.
Formulas Used
Lumpsum
FV = P × (1 + r)n
SIP (Monthly)
FV = P × [((1 + i)m − 1) / i] × (1 + i)
Where i = r/12 (monthly rate) and m = n × 12 (total months).
Indicative Returns by Fund Category
| Category | 5Y CAGR | 10Y CAGR | Risk |
|---|---|---|---|
| Large-Cap Equity | 12-15% | 11-13% | Moderate |
| Mid-Cap Equity | 15-20% | 13-16% | High |
| Small-Cap Equity | 18-25% | 14-18% | Very High |
| Hybrid (Balanced) | 9-12% | 8-11% | Moderate |
| Debt — Short Duration | 6-8% | 6-7% | Low |
| ELSS (Tax Saver) | 13-17% | 12-15% | High |
Indicative ranges based on long-term industry averages. Actual returns vary by fund. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CAGR in mutual funds?
CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate) is the smoothed annual return that would take your initial investment to its final value. CAGR = (FV/PV)1/n − 1.
How are SIP returns different from lumpsum?
SIP spreads investment across months, benefiting from rupee-cost averaging. Lumpsum invests it all upfront. SIP reduces timing risk; lumpsum maximises compounding when markets are rising.
What is a good mutual fund return in India?
Equity funds: 11-14% CAGR over 10 years is reasonable. Debt: 6-8%. Anything above 18% over a long period is exceptional and usually category-specific (small-cap, sector).
How are MF returns taxed?
Equity LTCG (>1 yr) above ₹1.25L taxed at 12.5%; STCG at 20%. Debt funds taxed at slab rate. ELSS has 3-yr lock-in.
Should I use absolute return or CAGR?
Absolute return for <1 year holdings. CAGR for multi-year comparisons across funds.
Why do my real returns differ from this calculator?
This is a constant-return projection. Real funds have year-on-year volatility, expense ratios (0.5-2%), and exit loads. Use the output as a directional estimate, not a guarantee.