Stock SIP vs Mutual Fund SIP

Stock SIP entails systematically investing a fixed amount in individual stocks at regular intervals, enabling investors to gradually build a personalized portfolio. Conversely, Mutual Fund SIP offers exposure to a professionally managed, diversified portfolio of securities, enhancing risk management.
Stay invested, stay stress-free with mutual fund SIPs.
3 min
16-July-2025

If you're someone who likes investing regularly but isn’t sure whether to go for a Stock SIP or a Mutual Fund SIP, you’re not alone. Both options allow you to invest a fixed amount at regular intervals, but they’re built very differently. A Stock SIP involves directly buying shares of specific companies over time, while a Mutual Fund SIP gives you access to a professionally managed, diversified portfolio. If you're leaning towards a structured, expert-led path over hands-on stock picking, there's a simpler way to get started without managing everything yourself. Start with a Mutual Fund SIP in just a few steps

Think of it like this: Stock SIPs are for those who want full control and are comfortable taking higher risks, while Mutual Fund SIPs are more suited to investors looking for ease, diversification, and steady long-term growth. In this article, we’ll break down the meaning of both types, how they work, and which might suit your financial goals better. If you're trying to match your investment style with your comfort level and risk appetite, comparing your options side by side can help you make that decision with clarity. Compare Mutual Fund Now

What is stock SIP?

A Stock SIP is a method of investing a fixed amount of money into chosen individual stocks at regular intervals just like you’d do with mutual funds. The idea is to build your portfolio gradually, using the power of cost averaging. When stock prices are low, you get more shares; when they’re high, you get fewer. Over time, this balances out your cost of purchase.

But here’s the thing: while the potential for returns is high, so is the risk. Stocks are inherently volatile, and investing in them regularly doesn’t eliminate that risk. To make the most of a Stock SIP, you need to research companies, understand market trends, and keep a close eye on performance. It’s a great choice for those who are confident about stock selection and want more control over where their money goes.

What is mutual fund SIP?

A Mutual Fund SIP allows you to invest a fixed sum at regular intervals into a mutual fund scheme. These funds are managed by professional fund managers who invest in a mix of stocks, bonds, or both—depending on the fund type. The beauty of this system is that your money is spread across different sectors, so you’re not relying on the performance of just one stock or industry.

Like stock SIPs, mutual fund SIPs also benefit from cost averaging. When the NAV (Net Asset Value) of a fund is low, you get more units, and when it’s high, you get fewer. Over time, this helps smooth out your average purchase cost. Plus, since an expert is managing your money, you don’t have to constantly track the markets. This makes mutual fund SIPs ideal for investors who want to grow their wealth without diving deep into stock research. If you are looking to invest regularly without the burden of constant market tracking, professionally managed SIPs offer a dependable solution. Open Your Mutual Fund Account Today!

Key differences between stock SIP and mutual fund SIP

Stock SIPs and Mutual Fund SIPs follow the same discipline—investing regularly—but the way they function is quite different. Let’s break it down in a simple way.

A Stock SIP means you're picking specific stocks and investing in them consistently. It’s a do-it-yourself route. You decide which stocks to buy, how much to invest, and when to make adjustments. This also means you carry the full risk and reward of your choices. If you’re right about the stocks, the returns could be great—but if you're wrong, the losses are all yours too.

A Mutual Fund SIP, on the other hand, puts your money in the hands of professionals. You invest in a fund that’s already diversified across multiple stocks or bonds. The fund manager takes care of picking and rebalancing the investments. It’s a lower-effort route with lower risk, thanks to the built-in diversification. It suits those who prefer a balanced, less hands-on approach.

In short, stock SIPs offer control and potentially higher returns, but they come with more risk and effort. Mutual fund SIPs offer convenience, diversification, and managed risk—perfect if you want a smoother investment ride.

Stock SIP vs mutual fund SIP

Here’s a simple comparison of Stock SIPs and Mutual Fund SIPs to help you decide which one matches your comfort level and financial goals:

Feature

Stock SIP

Mutual Fund SIP

Definition

Invests in individual stocks over time

Invests in a professionally managed portfolio of securities

Investment Focus

Specific companies you choose

Mix of stocks, bonds, or both based on the fund’s objective

Risk

High, as it depends on individual stock performance

Moderate, due to diversification across multiple securities

Diversification

Limited, unless you choose multiple stocks manually

Built-in diversification across various sectors

Management

You handle everything—research, monitor, update

Managed by experienced fund managers

Tax Treatment

Based on how long you hold the stocks

Depends on fund type and duration of investment

Paperwork

Simple, if done through a trading platform

May require KYC and additional onboarding steps

 

Factors to consider before choosing stock SIP

Before you jump into a Stock SIP, take a moment to evaluate if it’s the right fit for you.

  1. Risk Appetite: Stocks can swing wildly based on news, earnings, and market sentiment. If watching stock prices jump around makes you anxious, this might not be your thing.
  2. Time Commitment: Stock SIPs aren’t exactly a ‘set it and forget it’ strategy. You’ll need to do regular research, track company updates, and stay alert to market changes.
  3. Market Knowledge: Choosing the right stocks isn’t just about looking at past performance. You’ll need to understand financials, industry trends, and even global factors.
  4. Emotional Discipline: When markets dip, it’s easy to panic and sell. But in SIPs, staying consistent—even during dips—is key. That takes a lot of discipline when you're managing things solo.
  5. Diversification Challenges: You might think holding a few stocks is enough, but true diversification takes effort and planning. If you don't spread your bets properly, one bad stock can hurt your entire portfolio.

Why is SIP in mutual funds a good idea?

A Mutual Fund SIP brings together consistency, simplicity, and smart investing—all in one place. It helps you build the habit of investing regularly without stressing over market timing.

One of the biggest advantages is rupee cost averaging. Since you’re investing a fixed amount every month, you naturally buy more units when prices are low and fewer when prices are high. Over time, this can balance out the cost of your investment.

Then there’s diversification. Instead of putting your money into just one or two stocks, you spread it across multiple sectors and asset classes. This reduces the impact of any one investment underperforming.

And if you’re someone who doesn’t want to monitor stocks every day, that’s where professional management steps in. Fund managers do the heavy lifting—researching, rebalancing, and managing risk—so your money is always aligned with the fund’s goal.

So whether you're a beginner or just want a hands-off approach, SIP in mutual funds offers a great way to grow wealth with less hassle.

Why SIP in stocks might not be the best choice

SIP in individual stocks may sound exciting, but it’s not for everyone. The potential for higher returns is definitely there—but so are the risks.

Stocks are volatile. Prices can swing wildly based on news, earnings, or even social media buzz. One bad pick can significantly impact your overall returns, especially if your portfolio isn’t diversified.

Then there's the time and expertise factor. Picking good stocks consistently requires solid research skills. You need to know how to read balance sheets, follow industry trends, and interpret economic indicators.

Also, constant monitoring is a must. You can’t just set up a stock SIP and forget about it. If you’re not actively tracking your investments and making timely decisions, you could miss opportunities—or worse, hold onto underperformers too long.

So while stock SIPs can work for seasoned investors, they may not be the best route for those who want convenience, reduced risk, and a more structured investment approach.

Things to keep in mind before opting for SIP in stocks

Thinking of starting a SIP in stocks? Pause and consider a few critical factors:

  1. Higher Risk: Unlike mutual funds, where your money is spread across many companies, stock SIPs concentrate risk in fewer places. That means higher potential returns—but also higher chances of loss.
  2. Research Requirement: You’ll need to understand a company’s business model, check its financials, and keep track of industry updates. Without doing this regularly, your picks could backfire.
  3. Time Commitment: Managing a stock SIP isn’t passive. It demands time, effort, and emotional control—especially when the market moves sharply. If you’re not up for that, it could end up being more stressful than rewarding.

Tax implications for stocks and mutual funds SIP

Taxes might not be fun to think about, but they directly impact your investment returns. Here’s a breakdown of how stock and mutual fund SIPs are taxed:

Stock SIPs

  • Capital Gains:
    • If you sell your stocks within one year, profits are taxed at 15% (short-term capital gains).
    • If you sell after one year and your gains exceed Rs. 1 lakh in a year, the rest is taxed at 10% (long-term capital gains).
  • Dividends: Taxed as per your income tax slab.
  • STT (Securities Transaction Tax): A small charge (0.001%) on buy/sell transactions.

Mutual Fund SIPs

  • Equity Funds: Same tax rules as stocks.
  • Debt Funds: Gains from debt mutual funds are added to your income and taxed as per your slab, regardless of how long you held them.
  • Dividends: Again, taxed as per your income slab.
  • STT: Applicable only on equity-oriented mutual funds.

Bottom line: Tax rules are more or less similar for equity funds and stocks, but debt mutual funds are taxed differently. Always factor this into your long-term strategy. Tax implications can impact your overall returns knowing how mutual fund SIPs are treated under tax laws is essential for smarter financial planning. Compare Mutual Fund Options Now!

Limitations of stock SIP

Even though stock SIPs offer control and potential upside, they come with a few downsides:

  1. High Volatility: Stock prices fluctuate based on factors like earnings, interest rates, global cues, or even tweets. A sudden dip can wipe out gains if you're concentrated in just a few stocks.
  2. Lack of Diversification: With stock SIPs, unless you invest in multiple companies across sectors, your portfolio may lack balance. This concentration can expose you to sector-specific risks.

Limitations of mutual fund SIP

While mutual fund SIPs offer convenience and risk management, they’re not perfect:

  1. Expense Ratios: Every mutual fund charges a small fee to manage your investments. This can reduce your returns, especially in underperforming funds.
  2. Market Dependency: While mutual funds diversify your risk, they don’t eliminate it. A market downturn still affects your portfolio. Also, not all fund managers deliver consistent results—so fund selection matters.

Mutual funds are great for passive investing, but you still need to do your homework when choosing a fund.

Recommended Mutual Funds for SIP in 2025

Which is better between stock SIP and mutual fund SIP?

There's no one-size-fits-all answer. It depends on how much time, knowledge, and risk appetite you have.

  • Choose Stock SIP if you're confident in your stock-picking skills, have time to research, and can handle volatility.
  • Go for Mutual Fund SIP if you want diversification, expert management, and a more hands-off experience.

If you’re new to investing or don’t want the stress of tracking individual stocks, mutual funds are usually a safer and more convenient option.

Key takeaways

  • Stock SIP: Direct investment in individual stocks with higher risk and potential returns.
  • Mutual Fund SIP: Managed investment across sectors with built-in diversification and less volatility.
  • The right choice depends on your financial goals, risk tolerance, and how involved you want to be.

Conclusion

Both Stock SIPs and Mutual Fund SIPs are valid strategies to build wealth over time. Stock SIPs offer the thrill of higher returns and control, but they come with more responsibility and risk. Mutual Fund SIPs provide stability, professional expertise, and broader diversification—ideal for investors looking for a more balanced approach. Ultimately, the best option is the one that fits your goals and comfort level. Investing consistently is what really matters.

The Bajaj Mutual Fund Platform features multiple tools, from an online lumpsum calculator to a SIP calculator, intending to make mutual fund investment planning easier. The Bajaj Finserv Mutual Funds Platform, with over 1,000 mutual funds to choose from, can be the ideal place to begin your investment journey.

Essential tools for all mutual fund investors

Mutual Fund Calculator

Step Up SIP Calculator

SBI SIP Calculator

HDFC SIP Calculator

Axis Bank SIP Calculator

Nippon India SIP Calculator

ABSL SIP Calculator

Invesco SIP Calculator

Tata SIP Calculator

BOI SIP Calculator

Motilal Oswal Mutual Fund SIP Calculator

Kotak Bank SIP Calculator

LIC SIP Calculator

Groww SIP Calculator

ITI SIP Calculator

ICICI SIP Calculator

Why is SIP in mutual funds a good idea?

SIP in mutual funds is a smart idea for a few reasons. First, it helps you save and invest regularly. This builds a good habit of saving money. Additionally, SIPs let you average the cost of your investments. By putting in a fixed amount regularly, you buy more when prices are low and less when prices are high. This helps reduce the impact of market ups and downs on your investments.

Moreover, mutual funds offer diversification. Investing in a mutual fund gives you a mix of different types of investments. This spreads out the risk and lessens the impact of a bad investment.

Lastly, mutual funds are managed by experts. They choose the investments for you, so you don't have to do the research. This makes investing easier for those who don't have the time or knowledge.

Why sip in stocks might not be the best choice

Investing through a Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) in individual stocks can be a risky endeavor compared to other investment options like mutual funds. Stocks are highly sensitive to various factors, including economic shifts, company performance, and overall market conditions, which can lead to significant price fluctuations. This inherent volatility makes stock SIPs potentially less stable and more unpredictable.

Selecting stocks for an SIP requires in-depth research and analysis, such as understanding a company’s fundamental principles, reviewing financial statements, and keeping up with market trends and sector dynamics. For investors without the necessary expertise or time, this level of scrutiny can increase the likelihood of making poor investment decisions.

Moreover, managing a stock SIP demands continuous monitoring and regular adjustments based on market changes, financial news, and company-specific updates. This ongoing requirement can be burdensome and time-consuming for those who prefer a more passive investment approach, making stock SIPs less appealing for such investors.

Things to keep in mind before opting for SIP in Stocks

While SIP in stocks can be a viable investment option, it comes with certain challenges that may not make it suitable for everyone.

  1. Higher Risk Compared to Mutual Funds: Investing directly in individual stocks involves greater risk, as stock prices are influenced by multiple factors such as market conditions, company performance, and economic events. This makes it a more volatile investment compared to diversified options like mutual funds.
  2. Need for Extensive Research and Analysis: Successful stock SIP investing requires a deep understanding of company fundamentals, financial statements, industry trends, and market dynamics. Without sufficient knowledge and expertise, investors may find it difficult to make informed decisions, increasing the chances of poor investment choices.
  3. Regular Monitoring and Adjustments: Stock SIP demands active involvement, including staying updated with market trends, company news, and economic developments. This ongoing effort can be time-intensive and stressful, particularly for investors who prefer a more passive approach to managing their investments.

Tax implications for stocks and mutual funds SIP

The tax implications for stocks and mutual funds SIP (Systematic Investment Plan) in India are as follows:

Stocks SIP

  • Tax on dividends: Dividends received from stocks are taxed in the hands of the investor at their applicable income tax slab rate.
  • Tax on capital gains: Short-term capital gains (STCG) from stocks are taxed at the investor's income tax slab rate. Long-term capital gains (LTCG) are taxed at 10% without indexation and 20% with indexation benefits if the gains exceed Rs. 1 lakh.
  • Securities transaction tax (STT): STT is charged at 0.001% of the transaction value when buying or selling stocks.

Mutual funds SIP

  • Tax on dividends: Dividends received from mutual funds are taxed in the hands of the investor at their applicable income tax slab rate.
  • Tax on capital gains: Short-term capital gains (STCG) from mutual funds are taxed at the investor's income tax slab rate. Long-term capital gains (LTCG) are taxed at 10% without indexation and 20% with indexation benefits if the gains exceed Rs. 1 lakh.
  • Securities transaction tax (STT): STT is charged at 0.001% of the transaction value when buying or selling equity funds or hybrid equity-oriented funds. There is no STT on debt funds.

Limitations of Stock SIP

  • Higher volatility and risk: Stock SIPs expose investors to higher volatility compared to mutual fund SIPs. Since individual stocks can experience significant price fluctuations, the risk of loss increases, particularly during market downturns. Investors must have a higher risk tolerance and the ability to withstand potential losses over time, making it less suitable for conservative investors.
  • Lack of diversification: Investing in individual stocks through a Stock SIP means that investors may not achieve the level of diversification that mutual fund SIPs offer. Mutual funds typically hold a variety of securities, spreading risk across different sectors and asset classes. In contrast, a Stock SIP could lead to concentration in a few stocks, which can amplify losses if those stocks underperform. This lack of diversification may hinder the overall growth potential of an investor's portfolio.

Limitations of Mutual Fund SIP

  • Fees and expenses: One of the primary limitations of Mutual Fund SIPs is the associated costs, including management fees and expense ratios. These fees can eat into returns over time, particularly in underperforming funds. High costs may deter investors seeking to maximise their gains, as even small differences in fees can significantly impact long-term investment outcomes.
  • Market dependency: Mutual Fund SIPs are still subject to market fluctuations, as their performance is linked to the underlying assets held within the fund. During bearish market conditions, investors may experience negative returns, leading to potential dissatisfaction with their investment strategy. Additionally, fund managers' performance can vary widely, making it crucial for investors to select funds carefully. This dependency on market conditions and management quality may discourage risk-averse investors or those seeking consistent returns.

Recommended Mutual Funds for SIP in 2024

Which is better between Stock SIP or mutual funds SIP?

The choice between a Stock SIP (Systematic Investment Plan) and a Mutual Fund SIP depends on several factors, including the investor's risk tolerance, market expertise, and financial goals. Stock SIPs involve direct investment in a specific stock, providing exposure to market fluctuations and potential higher returns, but are more risky due to the concentration of investments in a single stock. On the other hand, Mutual Fund SIPs invest in a diversified portfolio of assets, reducing the risk associated with individual stocks and providing a more stable return.

While Stock SIPs offer higher returns if the chosen stock performs well, they also mean that losses can be significant if the stock performs poorly. Mutual Fund SIPs, on the other hand, are less risky due to diversification and professional management, but typically offer lower returns. The choice between the two ultimately depends on the investor's individual circumstances, risk tolerance, and financial goals, with Stock SIPs being suitable for investors with higher risk tolerance and market expertise, and Mutual Fund SIPs being better for those who prefer a more passive approach and want to diversify their portfolio with professional management.

Key takeaways

  • Stock SIP means investing a fixed amount regularly into individual stocks to build a stock portfolio over time
  • Mutual Fund SIP is when you regularly invest a fixed amount in a mutual fund. It helps diversify your investments across different industries, reducing risks.

Mutual Fund SIPs are less risky than Stock SIPs. Returns may be lower in Mutual Fund SIPs, and you need to stay invested for a set time. Choose based on your goals and tolerance for risk.

Conclusion

In conclusion, investing in Stock SIPs has higher potential returns but also higher risk. Mutual Fund SIPs offer diversification and lower risk through professional management. Mutual Fund SIPs are less risky than Stock SIPs. Returns may be lower in Mutual Fund SIPs, and you need to stay invested for a set time. Choose based on your goals and tolerance for risk.

The Bajaj Mutual Fund Platform features multiple tools, from an online lumpsum calculator to a SIP calculator, intending to make mutual fund investment planning easier. The Bajaj Finserv Mutual Funds Platform, with over 1,000 mutual funds to choose from, can be the ideal place to begin your investment journey.

Essential tools for all mutual fund investors

Mutual Fund Calculator

Lumpsum Calculator

Systematic Investment Plan Calculator

Step Up SIP Calculator

SBI SIP Calculator

HDFC SIP Calculator

Nippon India SIP Calculator

ABSL SIP Calculator

Tata SIP Calculator

BOI SIP Calculator

Motilal Oswal Mutual Fund SIP Calculator

Kotak Bank SIP Calculator

LIC SIP Calculator

Groww SIP Calculator

ITI SIP Calculator

ICICI SIP Calculator

 

Essential tools for all mutual fund investors

Mutual Fund Calculator

Step Up SIP Calculator

SBI SIP Calculator

HDFC SIP Calculator

Axis Bank SIP Calculator

Nippon India SIP Calculator

ABSL SIP Calculator

Invesco SIP Calculator

Tata SIP Calculator

BOI SIP Calculator

Motilal Oswal Mutual Fund SIP Calculator

Kotak Bank SIP Calculator

LIC SIP Calculator

Groww SIP Calculator

ITI SIP Calculator

ICICI SIP Calculator

Frequently asked questions

What is the meaning of frequency in stock SIP?
Frequency refers to how often you contribute to your stock SIP. It could be monthly, quarterly, or any other interval that suits your investment strategy and financial goals.
What are the disadvantages of a stock SIP?
Some drawbacks include the lack of guidance compared to mutual funds, which typically have professional fund managers making investment decisions. Stock SIPs also require active management and research, which could be challenging for beginners.
Is it good to invest in stock SIP?
Whether it's a good idea depends on your investment objectives, risk tolerance, and knowledge of the stock market. Stock SIPs can offer the potential for higher returns compared to mutual funds but also involve higher risk and require more active management.
Is it better to invest in stocks or mutual funds?
Both stocks and mutual funds have their pros and cons. Investing directly in stocks can offer higher potential returns but also involves higher risk and requires more time and expertise. Mutual funds provide diversification and professional management but may have lower returns and higher fees.
How do I start a stock SIP?
To start a stock SIP, you typically need to open a trading account with a brokerage firm that offers SIP services. Then, you select the stocks you want to invest in and set up a SIP plan where a fixed amount is deducted from your bank account at regular intervals to buy those stocks.
How do I choose between a Mutual Fund SIP and a Stock SIP?

Choosing between a Mutual Fund SIP and a Stock SIP depends on your risk tolerance, investment knowledge, and the amount of time you can commit. Mutual Fund SIPs are ideal for those who prefer a hands-off approach and value diversification, making them suitable for passive investors. In contrast, Stock SIPs may be more appealing to those with a higher risk tolerance and a strong interest in selecting individual stocks.

What should be the return expectations from a Mutual Fund SIP and Stock SIP?

Return expectations vary based on market conditions and asset performance. Mutual Fund SIPs generally provide more stable returns due to their diversified nature, which helps mitigate risk. Stock SIPs, on the other hand, have the potential for higher returns but come with greater volatility and risk, as they are influenced by the performance of individual stocks.

Is it possible to automate investments in a Stock SIP?

Yes, automating investments in a Stock SIP is possible with some brokerage firms that offer automated SIP facilities for stocks. However, even with automation, it's important to regularly review and adjust your investments to ensure they remain aligned with your financial objectives and market conditions.

Why is diversification important in a SIP?

Diversification is crucial in a SIP because it spreads investment risk across different assets. By investing in a variety of assets, you reduce the impact of any single investment's poor performance on your overall portfolio, leading to more balanced and potentially less volatile returns.

Can I start both Mutual Fund SIP and Stock SIP simultaneously?

Yes, you can invest in both Mutual Fund SIPs and Stock SIPs simultaneously. This approach allows you to balance your portfolio according to your risk tolerance and investment goals, combining the stability of mutual funds with the potential high returns of individual stocks.

How often should I review my SIP investments?

It is advisable to review your SIP investments at least once a quarter. Regular reviews help ensure that your investments continue to align with your financial goals and adapt to any changes in market conditions.

Show More Show Less

Bajaj Finserv app for all your financial needs and goals

Trusted by 50 million+ customers in India, Bajaj Finserv App is a one-stop solution for all your financial needs and goals.

You can use the Bajaj Finserv App to:

  • Apply for loans online, such as Instant Personal Loan, Home Loan, Business Loan, Gold Loan, and more.
  • Invest in fixed deposits and mutual funds on the app.
  • Choose from multiple insurance for your health, motor and even pocket insurance, from various insurance providers.
  • Pay and manage your bills and recharges using the BBPS platform. Use Bajaj Pay and Bajaj Wallet for quick and simple money transfers and transactions.
  • Apply for Insta EMI Card and get a pre-qualified limit on the app. Explore over 1 million products on the app that can be purchased from a partner store on Easy EMIs.
  • Shop from over 100+ brand partners that offer a diverse range of products and services.
  • Use specialised tools like EMI calculators, SIP Calculators
  • Check your credit score, download loan statements and even get quick customer support—all on the app.

Download the Bajaj Finserv App today and experience the convenience of managing your finances on one app.

Do more with the Bajaj Finserv App!

UPI, Wallet, Loans, Investments, Cards, Shopping and more

Disclaimer

Bajaj Finance Limited (“BFL”) is an NBFC offering loans, deposits and third-party wealth management products.

The information contained in this article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute any financial advice. The content herein has been prepared by BFL on the basis of publicly available information, internal sources and other third-party sources believed to be reliable. However, BFL cannot guarantee the accuracy of such information, assure its completeness, or warrant such information will not be changed. 

This information should not be relied upon as the sole basis for any investment decisions. Hence, User is advised to independently exercise diligence by verifying complete information, including by consulting independent financial experts, if any, and the investor shall be the sole owner of the decision taken, if any, about suitability of the same.