The Rule of 72 money doubling trick is trending again in 2025, especially among young Indian investors on Instagram and YouTube. It’s simple, instant and shockingly accurate—a mental math shortcut that tells you exactly how long your investment will take to double based on its rate of return.
From SIPs and mutual funds to fixed deposits and NPS, Indians are using this trick to understand compounding in the easiest way possible.
What Exactly Is the Rule of 72?
The Rule of 72 says:
Time to double your money (in years) = 72 ÷ Annual Return (%)
That’s it. No calculator, no formulas—just divide 72 by the interest or return rate.
Examples:
• 12% return → 72 ÷ 12 = 6 years
• 8% return → 72 ÷ 8 = 9 years
• 15% return → 72 ÷ 15 ≈ 4.8 years
This explains why the Rule of 72 money doubling trick is becoming a favourite among beginner investors—it instantly shows the power of compounding.
Why Indians Are Using This Trick in 2025
The financial awareness wave in India is exploding. More people are investing early, comparing SIP returns, and checking FD maturity values. The Rule of 72 helps because:
• It makes compounding easy to understand
• It helps compare investment options
• It shows why early investing is powerful
• It prevents choosing low-return instruments blindly
Most young investors now check “doubling time” before picking any financial product.
Using the Rule of 72 in Real Indian Investments
Here’s how long popular Indian investment options take to double using the Rule:
1. Mutual Fund SIP (12–14% returns)
5–6 years to double.
This is why SIPs remain the best long-term wealth tool.
2. NPS (8–10% returns)
7–9 years to double.
Stable for retirement planning.
3. Index Funds (10–12% returns)
6–7 years.
Perfect balance of risk and returns.
4. Bank Fixed Deposits (6–7% returns)
10–12 years.
Safe but very slow growth.
5. PPF (7.1% return)
About 10 years.
Long lock-in but tax-free maturity.
6. Crypto (Unpredictable)
Cannot apply due to volatility.
This makes the Rule of 72 money doubling trick a great tool for comparing what actually builds wealth.
How to Increase Your Doubling Speed
If you want your money to double faster, focus on:
✔ Increasing your return rate
From 7% FD to 12% SIP cuts doubling time from 10 years to just 6.
✔ Starting early
Compounding works like magic over time.
✔ Staying invested longer
Frequent withdrawals kill compounding.
✔ Avoiding emotional decisions
Market dips are temporary—your goals aren’t.
✔ Automating SIPs
Consistency beats intelligence in long-term investing.
The Rule Works Best When Returns Are Stable
The Rule of 72 works best for:
• SIPs
• Mutual funds
• Index funds
• NPS
• PPF
• FDs
It’s not suitable for:
• Intraday trading
• Crypto
• Penny stocks
• Anything with unpredictable returns
FAQs
Is the Rule of 72 accurate?
Yes, it’s very close for returns between 6% and 15%.
Can I use it for SIPs?
Absolutely—it’s one of the best uses of this rule.
Is it suitable for short-term returns?
No, only for long-term investments with stable returns.
Does it tell exact maturity?
It gives an approximate doubling time, not exact dates.
Why is it so popular in India now?
Because financial education is trending on reels, and this rule explains compounding in seconds.
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