National Simplicity Day: How magic of compounding can change your fortune?

Updated: 12 Jul 2023, 08:39 AM IST
TL;DR.

Do not stress a lot when a little will do. This holds true for investments too. Keep your investment strategy simple and aligned with your financial goals.

The simplicity of the compounding effect helps to grow money in the long run.

Whoever knew the art of simplicity never dared to venture into unnecessary complications. Such is the value of simple living that the much-acclaimed Italian Renaissance polymath Leonardo da Vinci once famously said, “Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication”.

Today, as we celebrate “National Simplicity Day”, let us rewire our focus back on the simple things in life that we totally shunned in favor of unwarranted complexities. Take, for example, we talk about looking for simple investments that can compound our money over a period. Yet, we use incomprehensible jargon to describe personal finance that ruins the very basic nature of investing.

The whole idea of financial growth revolves around the “Power of Compounding” concept. Not many people know how it is based on a simple, yet powerful financial concept called “Compound Interest”. It is a simple formula that dwells on the idea of first earning interest on your investments and then again earning interest on your interest income.

The “Magic of Compounding” is a powerful financial tool for individuals seeking long-term wealth creation. The compounding effect is nothing but an exponential effect of money earning on money, thus, giving way to more money. Understanding the mechanics of compounding interest is essential for individuals who seek to safeguard their financial future. Compounding entails reinvesting the interest earned on the initial investment, resulting in the exponential growth of your money as time goes on.

For those looking to harness the compounding effect on your money, the following are listed as some simple ways that translate the “Magic of Compounding” into a simple set of steps in investing.

Start investing early in life

The compounding interest effect is palpable only when you have time on your side. If you do not give enough time for your investments to grow, there is no way that you will experience wealth creation over time.

Maximizing the potential of compounding requires initiating investments at the earliest opportunity. By commencing early, your money benefits from an extended duration of growth. Seize the advantages of compounding by initiating investments, even with modest amounts, as soon as possible.

Time is of value when it comes to deciding when to invest and how soon you must start investing early in life. Time plays a vital role in wealth accumulation. Initiating investments at an early stage grants you the valuable advantage of compounding interest, enabling exponential growth of your money over time. Commencing investments early not only establishes the groundwork for financial security but also unveils opportunities and paves the path to financial freedom. The earlier you embark on this journey, the more promising and prosperous your financial future becomes.

Continue investing regularly

Investing once and then going to lull for a prolonged phase will in no way help you to grow your money. One of the basic rules of successful investing is “Persistence”. It is the only way to ensure that the magic of compounding works in your favour. To ensure a consistent flow of contributions that can compound over time, it is crucial to invest regularly, be it on a monthly or annual basis.

One way out is to automate your investments on a particular date of every month or year depending on the availability of your finances. Automating your investments can assist in maintaining discipline and ensuring that you seize potential growth opportunities without missing out. By establishing automated investment routines, you create a reliable system that supports long-term financial growth.

Know where you want to invest

Do you know that investments differ not only in terms of interest rates, and investment base but also in how frequently the amount is invested? An investment option with a compounding interest frequency will definitely yield more than investments promising annual compounding frequency. Also, a lot depends on your risk profile and your financial goals. How long you are willing to wait and how much money you are willing to be circulated in the market have a deciding effect on your investment options.

Gain a comprehensive understanding of the risks and returns tied to each investment option, and appropriately diversify your portfolio. By diversifying, you spread your investments across various assets, reducing the potential impact of any single investment's performance on your overall portfolio. This prudent approach mitigates risks and enhances the potential for consistent returns.

Stay invested for a prolonged tenure

“Time is money” can be reinterpreted as how staying invested for a prolonged tenure will ensure decent returns in the long run. Patience is a key factor when it comes to capitalizing on the benefits of compounding interest. It is important to adopt a long-term strategy and resist the urge to withdraw investments prematurely. By staying invested for an extended duration, you provide ample time for your money to grow exponentially. Remember, the rewards of compounding are best realized by maintaining a steadfast approach and allowing time to work its magic.

Step up your investments

Currency devaluation is a truth that we dare not ignore. This also highlights the need to increase your investments regularly to keep up with the diminishing impact of inflation. Use your regular bonus and yearly appraisals to enhance the size and frequency of your investments. As your income expands, it is wise to contemplate increasing your investment contributions. By consistently bolstering your investment portfolio, you expedite the process of compounding and amplify your capacity for building wealth. This proactive approach strengthens your financial prospects and facilitates greater long-term prosperity.

Seek professional advice

Investing is simple only when you are willing to follow these easy, simple steps. However, if this still seems complicated, take the advice of a professional investment advisor. This is especially for those who are not sure which investment options to choose from. Engaging the services of professional advisors can assist you in crafting a customized investment plan that optimizes the benefits of compounding interest while taking into account your individual financial circumstances. These experts possess the knowledge and expertise to tailor a strategy that aligns with your specific needs, enabling you to make the most of compounding and enhance your financial outcomes.

One aspect of simplicity is knowing what and when to overlook. Ignore the noise around you and stay focused on your financial goals. This way, you will adhere to a simple and fruitful investment strategy that will do you wonders in the long run.

 

We elaborate on the magic of compounding in mutual fund SIPs.
First Published: 12 Jul 2023, 08:36 AM IST