Not necessarily. A lumpsum investment is subject to market movements from the time of investment, while an SIP spreads the investment over time, averaging out market fluctuations. Returns depend on market performance and timing.

There is a minimum amount that can be invested as a lumpsum, which can be as low as ₹1,000.

Generally, there is no limit to the number of lumpsum investments that you can make in a year.

• If there is no lock-in on the fund, then you can sell the units as and when you want, subject to the scheme's terms and conditions. There can be restrictions, such as some solution-oriented funds having a 5-year lock-in, while ELSS funds have a mandatory 3-year lock-in. Other than that, you can redeem your lumpsum investment at any time, subject to applicable terms and conditions. However, there are certain points you must remember:

• There may be an exit load on some equity funds if redeemed before a certain cut-off period. It is generally applicable for 6 months or one year but may vary from scheme to scheme.

• There may also be STT payable when you redeem, along with applicable tax implications, which you need to factor in.

• Redeeming too early may not align with the long-term investment objective of the mutual fund.