What does dollar-cost averaging involve?

Dollar-cost averaging is an investment strategy that involves regularly investing a fixed amount of money into a particular investment, such as mutual funds or stocks, at predetermined intervals, regardless of the current price of the investment. This approach can help to mitigate the impact of market volatility and reduce the risk of making poorly-timed investments based on market conditions. By consistently investing the same amount, investors may buy more shares when prices are low and fewer shares when prices are high, which can lead to a lower average cost per share over time.

This strategy is designed to promote disciplined investing and can be particularly useful for long-term investors looking to build wealth gradually. It helps remove the emotional aspect of investing since decisions are made based on a systematic plan rather than market fluctuations.

In contrast, investing only when the market is favorable introduces market timing risk, while a lump sum investment might expose the investor to high volatility at the moment of investment. The assumption of a single strategy for all funds does not account for individual fund performance or market conditions which might necessitate different approaches.