A DCA calculator compares lump-sum investing versus dollar-cost averaging across volatile return paths over your contribution horizon.
Dollar-Cost-Averaging (DCA) ist eine Anlagestrategie...
Wann DCA besser als Einmalanlage
DCA verteilt Käufe über die Zeit und reduziert Timing-Risiko in volatilen Märkten, hinkt aber in steady Bullenmärkten oft hinter Einmalanlage.
401(k) per Gehalt ist automatisches DCA—Windfall heute vs über 6–12 Monate vergleichen.
Wählen Sie die Strategie, die Sie durchhalten—Konsistenz schlägt den letzten Einstiegspunkt.
Leitfaden, Beispiele und Methodik
How to use this dollar-cost averaging (DCA) calculator
Enter a lump sum available today, recurring contribution amount, interval, expected annual return, optional volatility, and horizon. Compare investing all at once versus spreading purchases over time—the core question behind VTSAX calculator and DCA calculator searches.
Example (USD)
Strategy
$12,000 available
Typical use case
Lump sum
Invest $12,000 day one
Long horizon index fund
DCA 12 months
$1,000/month
Reduce timing anxiety
401(k) payroll
Automatic each pay period
Built-in DCA
Lump sum vs DCA research
Historical US equity data often shows lump-sum investing outperforming DCA because markets rise more days than they fall. DCA still wins on behavior: it reduces regret if a lump-sum entry coincides with a drawdown. Many 401(k) investors DCA automatically every paycheck.
Volatility and average cost
When you enter volatility, simulated paths change average cost per share. Higher volatility with DCA can lower average entry if prices dip mid-horizon—but outcomes are path-dependent. Use conservative return assumptions for planning.
Taxable vs tax-advantaged DCA
DCA inside a 401(k) or IRA avoids annual tax friction. In a taxable brokerage, frequent small purchases are fine with commission-free ETFs. Match account type to your horizon before optimizing DCA frequency.
Common mistakes
Keeping cash on the sidelines for years while waiting to time the market.
Ignoring that DCA in a rising market lags lump sum.
Confusing DCA with never rebalancing.
Using aggressive return assumptions to justify delaying investment.
Was ist der Hauptvorteil von Dollar-Cost-Averaging (DCA)?
Es senkt das Timing-Risiko durch regelmäßige, konstante Sparraten, reduziert emotionale Entscheidungen und kauft automatisch mehr Anteile bei tieferen Kursen.
DCA besser als Einmalanlage?
Einmalanlage statistisch oft besser in Bullenmärkten; DCA psychologisch robuster.