Investments

What is XIRR in mutual funds and how it works — Explained


When investing in mutual funds, returns are a key consideration for investors. However, calculating the exact return can be tricky, especially when investments are made at different times. This is where XIRR (Extended Internal Rate of Return) comes in. It helps investors measure their actual returns, considering multiple investments made at different intervals.

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XIRR is an annualized return calculation method that accounts for cash flows occurring at irregular intervals. Unlike Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR), which assumes a single investment over a fixed holding period, XIRR factors in multiple investments and redemptions at different times.

For example, if you invest ₹10,000 every month in a mutual fund for a year, XIRR helps determine the exact annualized return, considering the timing of each investment.

How XIRR Works:

  1. Tracks Multiple Cash Flows – Considers all inflows (investments) and outflows (redemptions) on different dates.
  2. Calculates the Annualized Return – Unlike a simple percentage, XIRR provides a true annual rate of return.
  3. Accounts for the Time Value of Money – Investments made earlier carry more weight than recent ones.

Why XIRR is Important for Mutual Fund Investors

Feature Benefit
Best for SIP Investors Since SIPs involve multiple investments over time, XIRR is the most accurate way to measure returns.
Works for Lumpsum + SIP Investments If an investor has both lump sum and SIP contributions, XIRR provides a consolidated return.
Helps Compare Different Investments Investors can compare XIRR across different funds to make better investment decisions.

Example of XIRR Calculation

Date Investment (₹)
Jan 1, 2023 10,000
Mar 1, 2023 10,000
Jun 1, 2023 10,000
Dec 1, 2023 10,000

On Jan 1, 2024, the total investment grows to ₹45,000. Using Excel’s XIRR function with these cash flows and dates, the calculated return may be around 12-14%, depending on market performance.

Also read: Over half of equity MFs beat benchmarks in Feb: Here’s a category-wise performance breakdown

XIRR vs. CAGR: What’s the Difference?

Feature XIRR CAGR
Investment Type Multiple Transactions Single Lumpsum
Considers Timing of Cash Flows Yes No
Best for SIPs Yes No
Annualized Return Yes Yes

XIRR is an essential metric for mutual fund investors, particularly those investing through SIPs or making multiple transactions over time. It provides a more realistic measure of returns than CAGR, helping investors make informed decisions.

If you’re tracking your mutual fund portfolio, using XIRR will give you a clearer picture of your actual earnings rather than just relying on NAV-based returns.



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