Should You Continue or Stop Your SIPs? A Data-Driven Perspective

Brokerage Free Team •March 20, 2025 | 5 min read • 815 views

Table of Contents

  1. Introduction: The Dilemma of Continuing or Stopping SIPs
  2. Understanding Market Volatility and Investor Psychology
  3. Fact 1 - Nifty 50 Earnings Growth is Among the Highest in a Decade
  4. Fact 2 - Stock Market Valuations are Among the Lowest in a Decade
  5. Fact 3 - The Banking & Financial Sector is Driving Market Growth
  6. Fact 4 - Time in the Market is More Important Than Timing the Market
  7. Final Verdict: Should You Continue Your SIPs?


1. Introduction: The Dilemma of Continuing or Stopping SIPs

Have the recent sharp declines in the stock market left you wondering whether you should pause, continue, or even stop your Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs)? While stock market crashes can naturally be disheartening for an investor, it is important to remember that long-term investing has historically tended to outperform panic-driven decisions. This article will highlight crucial facts to help you make an informed decision amidst the recent market volatility.

 

“The stock market is a device to transfer money from the impatient to the patient.” - Warren Buffett

2. Understanding Market Volatility and Investor Psychology

Market downturns often instill fear among investors, leading many to halt or redeem their investments. However, history shows that markets tend to rebound over time, rewarding those who stay invested. Instead of reacting to short-term volatility, a systematic approach like SIPs ensures disciplined investing and wealth creation over the long run.

3. Fact 1 - Nifty 50 Earnings Growth is Among the Highest in a Decade

One of the biggest factors that reflect the performance of the stock market is how much money companies make or the earnings growth. Simply put, earnings growth is the increase in a company’s profits over time.

In the coming years, India’s top 50 companies (Nifty 50) are expected to see strong earnings growth:

  • FY 23 - 16%
  • FY 24 - 23%
  • FY 26E - 12%

What Does This Mean for Investors?

  • Stock prices follow earnings growth – When companies make more profit, their share prices generally go up over time.
  • Stopping SIPs now could mean missing out on future gains – If companies are expected to grow, their stocks will likely be worth more in the future.
  • Short-term volatility is NOT long-term loss – Even if markets fall temporarily, strong earnings growth leads to a long-term market recovery.

4. Fact 2 - Stock Market Valuations are Among the Lowest in a Decade

Historically, lower valuations have often been a strong indicator of attractive long-term buying opportunities. When the market trades at a lower Price-to-Earnings (PE) ratio compared to historical averages, it suggests that stocks are undervalued.

Nifty 50 PE Ratio Trends:

  • March 2025: 19.66
  • June 2022: 18.9
  • February 2016: 18.6
  • 10-Year Median PE (benchmark): 23.5

Currently, Nifty’s PE ratio is below its 10-year median benchmark, indicating that stocks are available at a discount.

What Does This Mean for Investors?

  • Stocks Are Trading at a Discount – Investors get to buy more units of quality stocks at lower prices.
  • Potential for Stronger Long-Term Gains – Markets tend to revert to their mean over time, leading to superior returns when valuations normalize.
  • SIP Benefits from Market Volatility – Continuing SIPs during periods of low valuations reduces the impact of short-term fluctuations and improves long-term returns.

5. Fact 3 - The Banking & Financial Sector is Driving Market Growth

The Banking & Financial Services Industry (BFSI) has been a pillar of strength for the Indian stock market, contributing nearly 40% of the total profit pool.

Key BFSI Sector Trends:

  • 40% Market Profit Share – The BFSI sector holds a dominant position in driving market performance.
  • 13% Expected Annual Growth – The sector is projected to grow at a robust rate, ensuring long-term wealth creation.
  • Strong Economic Linkage – Banks and financial institutions play a crucial role in economic expansion, facilitating credit growth and investment.

What Does This Mean for SIP Investors?

  • Stability & Growth Potential – Given BFSI’s strong fundamentals, investors can benefit from stability and long-term capital appreciation.
  • Resilience During Market Volatility – Financial stocks recover strongly after downturns, making them ideal for SIP accumulation.
  • Compounding Wealth Over Time – BFSI investments through SIPs ensure steady wealth growth over the years.

6. Fact 4 - Time in the Market is More Important Than Timing the Market

Market volatility often tempts investors to pause SIPs or try timing the market. However, historical data proves that staying invested is the best strategy.

Case Study: Impact of Market Timing on Returns

Consider an investor, Ms. A, who started investing ₹10,000 in 2001. If she stayed fully invested, her wealth would have grown as follows:

Scenario Annual Growth Rate Final Investment Value (₹) Reduction in Gains
Stayed Fully Invested 15.61% ₹3,25,004
Missed 10 Best Days 11.68% ₹1,41,713 -56%
Missed 20 Best Days 8.86% ₹76,707 -76%
Missed 30 Best Days 6.26% ₹42,941 -87%

Key Takeaways:

  • Timing the market is nearly impossible – The best market days often follow major downturns.
  • Missing just 10 best days can cut your returns by more than half – Attempting to time the market can drastically impact wealth creation.
  • Long-term SIPs ensure you never miss out on rebounds – Regular investing through SIPs captures the full growth potential of the market.

7. Final Verdict: Should You Continue Your SIPs?

Stopping your SIP during a crash may seem like a safe choice, but historical data and market fundamentals suggest otherwise. The best strategy is to stay invested, continue SIPs, and focus on long-term wealth creation.

Why You Should Continue Your SIPs:

Markets recover over time – History proves that downturns are followed by strong rebounds. ✅ You accumulate more units at lower prices – Volatility works in favor of SIP investors via rupee cost averaging. ✅ Long-term growth potential remains strong – With robust earnings growth and attractive valuations, India’s market offers significant upside.

So, stay disciplined, trust the process, and continue your SIP journey toward financial freedom!

Discussion

Results Season - Quarterly Results 2024

11 months ago | 17 min read • 23255 views

Decoding Trent's Triumph: The Impact of Zudio

1 year ago | 3 min read • 13386 views

2024 Interim Budget Highlights

1 year ago | 2 min read • 12865 views