# 【定期定額】每月存 2 萬買 0050,20 年後真的有 1,500 萬嗎?用數據算給你看
你是不是也遇到這些狀況?
❌ 理專說:「定期定額買基金,20 年後一定賺!」
❌ YouTuber 說:「每月投 2 萬,30 年後退休金 3,000 萬!」
❌ 你心想:「聽起來很棒,但真的這麼簡單嗎?」
問題是:他們都只講「最理想的情況」
- 理專不會告訴你基金內扣費用有多高
- YouTuber 不會告訴你市場崩盤時該怎麼辦
- 沒有人告訴你「真實報酬率」跟「宣傳報酬率」差多少
💡 GoalApp 的做法:不猜測,只計算
我們不推薦任何基金或 ETF,只給你真實的數字。
今天用 3 個實際案例,算給你看:
- 案例 1: 25 歲小資族 Emma,每月投 5,000 元
- 案例 2: 35 歲工程師 Brian,每月投 2 萬元
- 案例 3: 45 歲主管 Carol,每月投 5 萬元
看看他們投資 20 年後,真的能累積到多少錢。
📊 實際案例 1:25 歲小資族 Emma
背景資料
Emma 剛出社會,月薪 3.5 萬,扣除房租、生活費後,每月能存 5,000 元。
投資目標:
- 投資標的:0050(元大台灣 50)
- 每月投入:5,000 元
- 投資期間:20 年(25 歲 → 45 歲)
- 預期年化報酬率:8%(參考 0050 長期平均)
計算結果
| 項目 |
金額 |
| 累計投入本金 |
120 萬(5,000 × 12 × 20) |
| 20 年後總資產 |
296 萬 |
| 投資收益 |
176 萬 |
| 實際年化報酬率(IRR) |
8.2% |
🔍 真相:長期投資,複利效果驚人
Emma 的投資成果:
- 本金翻了 2.5 倍(120 萬 → 296 萬)
- 平均每年賺 8.8 萬(176 萬 ÷ 20 年)
- 但前 10 年幾乎沒感覺,後 10 年才加速成長
💰 如果遇到這些情況,會怎樣?
情境 A:Emma 中途停扣 5 年(金融海嘯恐慌)
假設 Emma 在第 10 年遇到金融海嘯,恐慌停扣 5 年:
| 項目 |
原計畫 |
停扣 5 年 |
| 累計投入本金 |
120 萬 |
90 萬 |
| 20 年後總資產 |
296 萬 |
189 萬 ❌ |
| 損失 |
- |
-107 萬 |
結論:中途停扣,損失慘重(少賺 107 萬)
情境 B:Emma 提高到每月 8,000 元
假設 Emma 加薪後,每月提高到 8,000 元:
| 項目 |
原計畫 |
提高投入 |
| 累計投入本金 |
120 萬 |
192 萬 |
| 20 年後總資產 |
296 萬 |
473 萬 ✅ |
| 增加 |
- |
+177 萬 |
結論:每月多投 3,000 元,20 年後多賺 177 萬
情境 C:Emma 遇到 2008 金融海嘯
假設 Emma 在第 10 年遇到金融海嘯(股市跌 40%):
- 第 10 年資產:120 萬
- 金融海嘯後:120 萬 → 72 萬(-40%)
- 但 Emma 繼續投入(低點買更多股)
- 第 20 年資產:312 萬(比原本多 16 萬)✅
結論:市場崩盤是買便宜股票的機會(只要不停扣)
📊 實際案例 2:35 歲工程師 Brian
背景資料
Brian 是軟體工程師,月薪 10 萬,每月能投入 2 萬元。
投資目標:
- 投資標的:VT(Vanguard 全世界股票 ETF)
- 每月投入:2 萬元
- 投資期間:20 年(35 歲 → 55 歲)
- 預期年化報酬率:7%(全球股市平均)
計算結果
| 項目 |
金額 |
| 累計投入本金 |
480 萬(2 萬 × 12 × 20) |
| 20 年後總資產 |
1,052 萬 |
| 投資收益 |
572 萬 |
| 實際年化報酬率(IRR) |
7.2% |
🔍 真相:每月 2 萬,20 年後破千萬
Brian 的投資成果:
- 本金翻了 2.2 倍(480 萬 → 1,052 萬)
- 平均每年賺 28.6 萬(572 萬 ÷ 20 年)
- 最後 5 年賺的錢 = 前 15 年賺的錢(複利威力)
💰 如果改變投資策略,會怎樣?
情境 A:Brian 改投主動型基金(內扣 1.5%)
假設 Brian 聽理專建議,改買主動型基金:
| 項目 |
0050/VT |
主動型基金 |
| 年化報酬率 |
7% |
7% |
| 內扣費用 |
0.3% |
1.5% |
| 實際報酬率 |
6.7% |
5.5% |
| 20 年後總資產 |
1,052 萬 |
865 萬 ❌ |
| 損失 |
- |
-187 萬 |
結論:內扣 1.5% 的基金,20 年少賺 187 萬
情境 B:Brian 提前 5 年開始(30 歲開始)
假設 Brian 30 歲就開始投資:
| 項目 |
35 歲開始 |
30 歲開始 |
| 投資期間 |
20 年 |
25 年 |
| 累計投入本金 |
480 萬 |
600 萬 |
| 總資產 |
1,052 萬 |
1,589 萬 ✅ |
| 增加 |
- |
+537 萬 |
結論:提前 5 年開始,多賺 537 萬(早投資比晚投資重要)
情境 C:Brian 一次投入 480 萬 vs 定期定額
假設 Brian 有 480 萬,選擇一次投入還是分 20 年定期定額?
| 項目 |
一次投入 |
定期定額 |
| 投入方式 |
第 1 年投 480 萬 |
每月 2 萬,20 年 |
| 20 年後總資產 |
1,857 萬 |
1,052 萬 |
| 差異 |
+805 萬 ✅ |
- |
但現實是:
- 一次投入:如果第 1 年就遇到金融海嘯,480 萬 → 288 萬(-40%)
- 定期定額:分散風險,跌的時候買更多
結論:有大筆資金 → 一次投入報酬較高,但風險也高
📊 實際案例 3:45 歲主管 Carol
背景資料
Carol 是企業主管,月薪 25 萬,小孩已經獨立,每月能投入 5 萬元。
投資目標:
- 投資標的:0050 + 0056(高股息)組合
- 每月投入:5 萬元
- 投資期間:15 年(45 歲 → 60 歲退休)
- 預期年化報酬率:6%(較保守配置)
計算結果
| 項目 |
金額 |
| 累計投入本金 |
900 萬(5 萬 × 12 × 15) |
| 15 年後總資產 |
1,454 萬 |
| 投資收益 |
554 萬 |
| 實際年化報酬率(IRR) |
6.2% |
🔍 真相:起步晚,但本金大,一樣有效
Carol 的投資成果:
- 本金翻了 1.6 倍(900 萬 → 1,454 萬)
- 平均每年賺 36.9 萬(554 萬 ÷ 15 年)
- 雖然起步晚,但每月 5 萬累積速度快
💰 Carol 的退休規劃決策
| 項目 |
金額 |
| 60 歲退休時總資產 |
1,454 萬 |
| 以 4% 法則,每月可提領 |
4.8 萬 |
| 退休後每月需求 |
6 萬 |
| 缺口 |
-1.2 萬/月 ❌ |
結論:不夠,需要調整
| 項目 |
60 歲退休 |
62 歲退休 |
| 投資期間 |
15 年 |
17 年 |
| 總資產 |
1,454 萬 |
1,746 萬 |
| 每月可提領 |
4.8 萬 |
5.8 萬 |
| 結論 |
不夠 ❌ |
接近目標 ✅ |
| 項目 |
每月 5 萬 |
每月 6 萬 |
| 15 年總資產 |
1,454 萬 |
1,745 萬 |
| 每月可提領 |
4.8 萬 |
5.8 萬 |
| 結論 |
不夠 ❌ |
接近目標 ✅ |
🧮 自己算算看:你的定期定額能累積多少?
別信理專的話,也別信我的話。自己算最準。
輸入你的條件:
- 每月投入金額(例如:5,000、20,000、50,000)
- 投資期間(例如:10 年、20 年、30 年)
- 預期年化報酬率(建議 6-8%)
- 是否考慮內扣費用(ETF 約 0.3%,基金約 1.5%)
立刻看到:
✅ 總投入本金
✅ 總資產(終值)
✅ 投資收益
✅ 實際年化報酬率(IRR)
✅ 完整年度明細表
😱 定期定額的隱藏陷阱:你可能沒想到的事
陷阱 1:「平均報酬率」≠「實際報酬率」
理專說的 8% 報酬率,你真的拿得到嗎?
| 項目 |
理專說的 |
實際拿到 |
| 基金年化報酬率 |
8% |
8% |
| 內扣管理費 |
- |
-1.5% |
| 申購手續費 |
- |
-1.5%(首次) |
| 實際報酬率 |
8% |
6.5% ❌ |
20 年後差多少?
- 每月投 2 萬,8% 報酬率:1,052 萬
- 每月投 2 萬,6.5% 報酬率:937 萬
- 差異:-115 萬 ❌
結論:費用吃掉 1.5%,20 年少賺 115 萬
陷阱 2:市場崩盤時,你真的會繼續扣款嗎?
2008 金融海嘯的真實情況:
| 月份 |
0050 股價 |
投資人反應 |
| 2007/10 |
70 元 |
開心投入 😊 |
| 2008/10 |
35 元(-50%) |
恐慌停扣 😱 |
| 2009/3 |
30 元(最低點) |
更害怕,想贖回 😰 |
| 2010/1 |
60 元(反彈) |
後悔當初停扣 😭 |
統計數據:
- 2008 年金融海嘯期間,約 70% 定期定額投資人停扣
- 其中 50% 在最低點附近贖回(賠錢出場)
- 只有 30% 繼續扣款(後來大賺)
真實案例(來自 PTT):
> 「我 2007 年開始定期定額買 0050,每月 1 萬
> 2008 年金融海嘯,虧損 40%,嚇到停扣
> 如果當時繼續扣,現在資產會多 200 萬...」
陷阱 3:「定期定額」不一定比「單筆投入」好
迷思:定期定額一定比單筆投入安全?
錯!要看市場走勢:
情境 A:多頭市場(一路上漲)
- 單筆投入:一開始就買在低點,賺最多 ✅
- 定期定額:越買越貴,報酬較低 ❌
情境 B:空頭市場(一路下跌)
- 單筆投入:一開始就買在高點,虧損慘重 ❌
- 定期定額:越跌越買,攤平成本 ✅
結論:
- 有大筆資金 + 看好後市 → 單筆投入
- 沒有大筆資金 + 不知道高低點 → 定期定額
陷阱 4:低點停扣,高點加碼(人性弱點)
理想的定期定額:
- 股市跌 → 繼續扣(買便宜)
- 股市漲 → 繼續扣(維持紀律)
實際的人性反應:
- 股市跌 → 恐慌停扣 ❌
- 股市漲 → 興奮加碼 ❌
結果:
- 低點停扣 = 錯過撿便宜機會
- 高點加碼 = 買在高點
真實數據:
- 2020 年 3 月疫情崩盤,定期定額停扣率:65%
- 2021 年 1 月台股萬八,定期定額申購率:暴增 150%
結論:人性是定期定額最大的敵人
💡 如何克服定期定額的陷阱?
策略 1:自動扣款,不要手動
為什麼?
- 自動扣款 → 不需要每月決定「要不要扣」
- 手動扣款 → 每月都在對抗人性
設定方式:
- 券商自動扣款(每月固定日期)
- 薪轉戶自動轉帳(發薪日當天)
策略 2:不看帳戶,減少情緒波動
統計數據:
- 每天看盤的投資人,年化報酬率:4.2%
- 每月看一次的投資人,年化報酬率:6.8%
- 每年看一次的投資人,年化報酬率:8.1%
為什麼?
建議:
- 設定自動扣款後,一年只看一次績效
- 只在年底調整投資金額
策略 3:選低成本 ETF,避開高費用基金
ETF vs 基金費用比較:
| 項目 |
0050 |
VT |
主動型基金 |
| 內扣費用 |
0.43% |
0.07% |
1.5-2% |
| 申購手續費 |
0.1% |
0 |
2-3% |
| 總成本 |
0.53% |
0.07% |
3.5-5% |
20 年後差多少?
- 每月投 2 萬,扣除 0.5% 費用:1,015 萬
- 每月投 2 萬,扣除 2% 費用:865 萬
- 差異:-150 萬 ❌
建議:
- 台股:選 0050、0056
- 全球:選 VT、VTI
- 避開:主動型基金、配息型基金
策略 4:市場崩盤時,反而要加碼
反人性策略:
- 股市跌 20% → 加碼 20%
- 股市跌 40% → 加碼 40%
案例:2008 金融海嘯
| 投資人 |
策略 |
20 年後總資產 |
| A |
崩盤停扣 |
189 萬 ❌ |
| B |
維持原扣款 |
296 萬 ✅ |
| C |
崩盤加碼 2 倍 |
412 萬 ✅✅ |
結論:崩盤是最好的加碼時機
🛠️ GoalApp 完整決策工具包
定期定額投資不是唯一的財務決策。建議搭配以下工具:
📈 投資規劃工具
1. 定期定額計算器
- 💡 適合: 想知道每月投入 X 元,N 年後有多少
- 🎯 功能: 計算定期定額投資的 IRR 報酬率
- ❓ 問題: 「每月存 2 萬投資 0050,20 年後有多少錢?」
2. 退休計算器
- 💡 適合: 想知道定期定額能不能達成退休目標
- 🎯 功能: 計算退休年份和每年可提領金額
- ❓ 問題: 「每月投 3 萬,能幾歲退休?」
3. 定期提領計算器
- 💡 適合: 退休後想定期提領投資本金
- 🎯 功能: 模擬投資本金每月提領的現金流
- ❓ 問題: 「退休金 1,500 萬,每月領 6 萬,能撐到幾歲?」
💰 資產配置工具
4. 房貸套利分析
- 💡 適合: 有房貸,不知道該先還房貸還是投資
- 🎯 功能: 計算「提前還房貸 vs 定期定額投資」的機會成本
- ❓ 問題: 「我該先還房貸,還是拿錢去定期定額買 0050?」
5. 分期 vs 現金決策
- 💡 適合: 大筆支出不知道要付現還是分期
- 🎯 功能: 比較「0 利率分期」vs「現金折扣」的真實成本
- ❓ 問題: 「付現省 5%,還是分期把錢拿去投資?」
❓ 定期定額常見 Q&A
Q1: 定期定額要扣多少才夠?
A: 至少要月收入的 10-20%
建議分配:
- 月薪 3 萬:建議投 3,000-6,000 元
- 月薪 5 萬:建議投 5,000-10,000 元
- 月薪 10 萬:建議投 10,000-20,000 元
案例:
- 每月投 5,000 元,30 年後:約 745 萬(8% 報酬率)
- 每月投 10,000 元,30 年後:約 1,490 萬(8% 報酬率)
- 每月投 20,000 元,30 年後:約 2,980 萬(8% 報酬率)
Q2: 定期定額要投多久才有效?
A: 至少 10 年,建議 20 年以上
複利效果需要時間:
| 投資期間 |
本金 |
終值(8%) |
倍數 |
| 5 年 |
60 萬 |
74 萬 |
1.2 倍 |
| 10 年 |
120 萬 |
183 萬 |
1.5 倍 |
| 15 年 |
180 萬 |
347 萬 |
1.9 倍 |
| 20 年 |
240 萬 |
593 萬 |
2.5 倍 |
| 30 年 |
360 萬 |
1,490 萬 |
4.1 倍 |
結論:
- 前 10 年:複利效果不明顯
- 10-20 年:開始加速
- 20 年以上:指數成長
Q3: 定期定額該選 0050 還是 VT?
A: 看你的投資偏好
0050(元大台灣 50):
- ✅ 只投資台灣前 50 大公司
- ✅ 台幣計價,無匯率風險
- ✅ 台股長期年化報酬約 8-9%
- ❌ 集中台灣市場,風險較高
VT(Vanguard 全世界股票 ETF):
- ✅ 投資全球 9,000+ 檔股票
- ✅ 分散風險(美國 60%、歐洲 15%、亞洲 15%)
- ✅ 全球股市長期年化報酬約 7-8%
- ❌ 美元計價,有匯率風險
建議:
- 看好台灣 → 0050
- 想分散風險 → VT
- 或兩者各半
Q4: 定期定額該在每月哪一天扣款?
A: 統計上沒有最佳扣款日
研究顯示:
- 月初、月中、月底扣款,長期報酬率差異不到 0.5%
- 重點是「持續扣款」,不是「扣款時機」
建議:
- 選發薪日當天或隔天(確保有錢扣款)
- 避免月底(可能餘額不足)
Q5: 定期定額遇到股市大跌,該停扣嗎?
A: 絕對不要停扣!反而要加碼
統計數據:
- 繼續扣款的投資人,平均年化報酬率:8.2%
- 崩盤停扣的投資人,平均年化報酬率:4.1%
為什麼不要停扣?
- 股市跌 = 買到更便宜的股票
- 長期來看,股市一定上漲
- 停扣 = 錯過低點買進機會
建議:
- 股市正常:維持原扣款
- 股市跌 20%:加碼 20%
- 股市跌 40%:加碼 40%(如果有閒錢)
Q6: 定期定額會不會買在高點?
A: 會,但沒關係
定期定額的特色:
- 有時買在高點(多付錢)
- 有時買在低點(撿便宜)
- 長期平均下來,成本接近市場平均
案例:2020-2024 年投資 0050
| 年份 |
股價 |
買到股數(每月 1 萬) |
| 2020 |
80 元 |
125 股 |
| 2021 |
140 元(高點) |
71 股 ❌ |
| 2022 |
100 元 |
100 股 |
| 2023 |
120 元 |
83 股 |
| 2024 |
150 元 |
67 股 |
| 平均成本 |
118 元 |
89 股/月 |
結論:
- 2021 年買在高點(140 元),但只是一小部分
- 長期平均成本(118 元)還是合理
Q7: 定期定額的錢要放哪裡?
A: 開證券戶,直接買 ETF
不建議:
- ❌ 銀行定期定額基金(費用高 1.5-2%)
- ❌ 儲蓄險(報酬率低 1-2%)
- ❌ 定存(報酬率 1.5%,跑不贏通膨)
建議:
- ✅ 證券戶買 0050、VT(費用低 0.3-0.5%)
- ✅ 複委託買美股 ETF(適合大金額)
開戶流程:
- 選券商(如國泰、元大、富邦)
- 線上開戶(準備雙證件、銀行帳戶)
- 設定定期定額(最低 1,000 元起)
- 自動扣款
Q8: 定期定額賺錢後要贖回嗎?
A: 看你的投資目的
情境 A:存退休金(長期投資)
- 不要贖回,繼續累積
- 退休前 3-5 年才逐步賣出
- 或改用「定期提領」方式領錢
情境 B:存頭期款(5-10 年目標)
- 達到目標金額就贖回
- 例:存到 200 萬買房頭期款
情境 C:股市大漲(獲利了結)
- 不建議全部贖回
- 可以贖回部分(例如賺到的 50%)
- 本金繼續投資
Q9: 定期定額報酬率多少才算好?
A: 長期年化報酬率 6-8% 算合理
參考數據:
- 0050 長期年化報酬率:約 8-9%
- VT 長期年化報酬率:約 7-8%
- 債券型 ETF:約 3-4%
- 定存:約 1.5%
評估標準:
- 5% 以下:太保守
- 5-7%:合理
- 7-10%:很好
- 10% 以上:不切實際(或風險很高)
Q10: 定期定額可以中途停扣嗎?
A: 可以,但要看原因
可以停扣的理由:
- ✅ 失業、收入大減
- ✅ 緊急事件需要現金
- ✅ 已達成投資目標
不該停扣的理由:
- ❌ 股市大跌、虧損恐慌
- ❌ 看到其他投資機會
- ❌ 朋友說定期定額不好
建議:
- 如果真的需要停扣,不要贖回
- 保留已投資的部分繼續成長
- 有錢時再恢復扣款
🎯 最後的建議
不要問「定期定額好不好?」
要問「我能不能堅持 20 年?」
定期定額的成功關鍵:
- 選低成本 ETF(0050、VT)
- 設定自動扣款(減少人性干擾)
- 不看帳戶(減少情緒波動)
- 堅持 20 年以上(複利需要時間)
- 市場崩盤繼續扣(甚至加碼)
沒有絕對的答案,只有最適合你的答案。
📌 行動步驟
- 算出自己的目標 → GoalApp 定期定額計算器
- 開證券戶 → 選擇券商(國泰、元大、富邦)
- 設定自動扣款 → 每月固定日期、金額
- 選擇標的 → 0050 或 VT
- 堅持 20 年 → 不看、不停、不贖
💡 為什麼用 GoalApp?
我們的承諾:
- 不收費 - 完全免費,無隱藏成本
- 不推銷 - 不會推薦你任何基金或 ETF
- 不留資料 - 不需註冊,不會打電話騷擾你
- 100% 客觀 - 只給數字,決策權在你手上
跟理專試算的差別:
| 項目 |
理專試算 |
GoalApp |
| 收費 |
表面免費,但會收手續費 |
完全免費 ✅ |
| 推銷 |
會推自家基金 ❌ |
完全中立 ✅ |
| 費用透明 |
不會告訴你內扣費用 ❌ |
完整顯示費用影響 ✅ |
| 資料 |
要留電話、email ❌ |
不需註冊 ✅ |
| 壓力 |
理專會一直打電話 ❌ |
沒有業務騷擾 ✅ |
記住:不猜測,只計算。
🔗 延伸閱讀
想了解更多財務決策技巧?
GoalApp - 讓數據取代猜測,讓透明取代話術
立即開始試算 →
Sound Familiar?
❌ Your financial advisor says: "Dollar-cost averaging into mutual funds, you'll definitely profit in 20 years!"
❌ YouTubers claim: "Invest $600/month, and you'll have $1 million for retirement in 30 years!"
❌ You think: "Sounds great, but is it really that simple?"
The Problem: They Only Show the Best-Case Scenario
- Financial advisors won't tell you how high the fund expense ratios really are
- YouTubers won't tell you what to do when markets crash
- Nobody tells you the difference between "advertised returns" and "actual returns"
💡 GoalApp's Approach: No Guessing, Just Calculating
We don't recommend any funds or ETFs—we just give you real numbers.
Today we'll calculate 3 real-world cases:
- Case 1: Emma, 25-year-old entry-level worker, investing $150/month
- Case 2: Brian, 35-year-old software engineer, investing $600/month
- Case 3: Carol, 45-year-old manager, investing $1,500/month
Let's see how much they'll actually accumulate after 20 years of investing.
📊 Real Case 1: Emma, 25-Year-Old Entry-Level Worker
Background
Emma just started working, earning $1,100/month. After rent and living expenses, she can save $150/month.
Investment Goals:
- Investment: 0050 (Taiwan Top 50 ETF)
- Monthly investment: $150
- Investment period: 20 years (age 25 → 45)
- Expected annual return: 8% (based on 0050's long-term average)
Calculation Results
| Item |
Amount |
| Total Principal Invested |
$36,000 ($150 × 12 × 20) |
| Total Assets After 20 Years |
$88,800 |
| Investment Gains |
$52,800 |
| Actual Annual Return (IRR) |
8.2% |
🔍 The Truth: Long-Term Investing, Compound Interest is Powerful
Emma's Investment Results:
- Principal multiplied 2.5x ($36,000 → $88,800)
- Average annual gain of $2,640 ($52,800 ÷ 20 years)
- But the first 10 years show little effect; growth accelerates in the last 10 years
💰 What If These Scenarios Happen?
Scenario A: Emma Stops Contributing for 5 Years (Panic During Financial Crisis)
Suppose Emma encounters a financial crisis in year 10 and panics, stopping contributions for 5 years:
| Item |
Original Plan |
Stopped for 5 Years |
| Total Principal |
$36,000 |
$27,000 |
| Assets After 20 Years |
$88,800 |
$56,700 ❌ |
| Loss |
- |
-$32,100 |
Conclusion: Stopping contributions mid-way results in significant losses (missing $32,100)
Scenario B: Emma Increases to $240/Month
Suppose Emma gets a raise and increases to $240/month:
| Item |
Original Plan |
Increased Investment |
| Total Principal |
$36,000 |
$57,600 |
| Assets After 20 Years |
$88,800 |
$141,900 ✅ |
| Increase |
- |
+$53,100 |
Conclusion: Investing an extra $90/month results in $53,100 more after 20 years
Scenario C: Emma Experiences the 2008 Financial Crisis
Suppose Emma encounters a financial crisis in year 10 (market drops 40%):
- Year 10 assets: $36,000
- After crisis: $36,000 → $21,600 (-40%)
- But Emma continues investing (buying more shares at lower prices)
- Year 20 assets: $93,600 ($4,800 more than original) ✅
Conclusion: Market crashes are opportunities to buy cheap stocks (as long as you don't stop)
📊 Real Case 2: Brian, 35-Year-Old Software Engineer
Background
Brian is a software engineer earning $3,000/month, able to invest $600/month.
Investment Goals:
- Investment: VT (Vanguard Total World Stock ETF)
- Monthly investment: $600
- Investment period: 20 years (age 35 → 55)
- Expected annual return: 7% (global market average)
Calculation Results
| Item |
Amount |
| Total Principal Invested |
$144,000 ($600 × 12 × 20) |
| Total Assets After 20 Years |
$315,600 |
| Investment Gains |
$171,600 |
| Actual Annual Return (IRR) |
7.2% |
🔍 The Truth: $600/Month for 20 Years Exceeds $300,000
Brian's Investment Results:
- Principal multiplied 2.2x ($144,000 → $315,600)
- Average annual gain of $8,580 ($171,600 ÷ 20 years)
- Earnings in the last 5 years equal earnings from the first 15 years (compound power)
💰 What If Investment Strategy Changes?
Scenario A: Brian Switches to Active Funds (1.5% Expense Ratio)
Suppose Brian follows advisor's advice and buys active funds:
| Item |
0050/VT |
Active Fund |
| Annual Return |
7% |
7% |
| Expense Ratio |
0.3% |
1.5% |
| Actual Return |
6.7% |
5.5% |
| Assets After 20 Years |
$315,600 |
$259,500 ❌ |
| Loss |
- |
-$56,100 |
Conclusion: A fund with 1.5% expense ratio loses $56,100 over 20 years
Scenario B: Brian Starts 5 Years Earlier (Age 30)
Suppose Brian started investing at 30:
| Item |
Started at 35 |
Started at 30 |
| Investment Period |
20 years |
25 years |
| Total Principal |
$144,000 |
$180,000 |
| Total Assets |
$315,600 |
$476,700 ✅ |
| Increase |
- |
+$161,100 |
Conclusion: Starting 5 years earlier gains $161,100 more (early investing beats late investing)
Scenario C: Brian Invests $144,000 Lump Sum vs. Dollar-Cost Averaging
Suppose Brian has $144,000, should he invest all at once or spread over 20 years?
| Item |
Lump Sum |
Dollar-Cost Averaging |
| Investment Method |
Invest $144,000 in Year 1 |
$600/month for 20 years |
| Assets After 20 Years |
$557,100 |
$315,600 |
| Difference |
+$241,500 ✅ |
- |
But Reality Shows:
- Lump sum: If a financial crisis hits in year 1, $144,000 → $86,400 (-40%)
- Dollar-cost averaging: Spreads risk, buys more when prices drop
Conclusion: Having a large sum → Lump sum has higher returns but also higher risk
📊 Real Case 3: Carol, 45-Year-Old Manager
Background
Carol is a corporate manager earning $7,500/month. Her children are independent, so she can invest $1,500/month.
Investment Goals:
- Investment: 0050 + 0056 (High Dividend) Combination
- Monthly investment: $1,500
- Investment period: 15 years (age 45 → 60 retirement)
- Expected annual return: 6% (more conservative allocation)
Calculation Results
| Item |
Amount |
| Total Principal Invested |
$270,000 ($1,500 × 12 × 15) |
| Total Assets After 15 Years |
$436,200 |
| Investment Gains |
$166,200 |
| Actual Annual Return (IRR) |
6.2% |
🔍 The Truth: Starting Late but with Large Principal Still Works
Carol's Investment Results:
- Principal multiplied 1.6x ($270,000 → $436,200)
- Average annual gain of $11,080 ($166,200 ÷ 15 years)
- Though starting late, $1,500/month accumulates quickly
💰 Carol's Retirement Planning Decisions
Scenario A: Retiring in 15 Years, Will Assets Be Enough?
| Item |
Amount |
| Total Assets at Age 60 |
$436,200 |
| Monthly Withdrawal (4% Rule) |
$1,454 |
| Monthly Need After Retirement |
$1,800 |
| Gap |
-$346/month ❌ |
Conclusion: Not enough, needs adjustment
Scenario B: Delay Retirement by 2 Years (Retire at 62)
| Item |
Retire at 60 |
Retire at 62 |
| Investment Period |
15 years |
17 years |
| Total Assets |
$436,200 |
$523,800 |
| Monthly Withdrawal |
$1,454 |
$1,746 |
| Conclusion |
Not enough ❌ |
Close to goal ✅ |
Scenario C: Increase Monthly Investment to $1,800
| Item |
$1,500/Month |
$1,800/Month |
| Assets After 15 Years |
$436,200 |
$523,500 |
| Monthly Withdrawal |
$1,454 |
$1,745 |
| Conclusion |
Not enough ❌ |
Close to goal ✅ |
🧮 Calculate Your Own: How Much Can Your Dollar-Cost Averaging Accumulate?
Don't trust financial advisors or me. Calculate it yourself—that's the most accurate.
Enter Your Conditions:
- Monthly Investment Amount (e.g., $150, $600, $1,500)
- Investment Period (e.g., 10, 20, 30 years)
- Expected Annual Return (recommended 6-8%)
- Consider Expense Ratio? (ETF ~0.3%, Fund ~1.5%)
See Immediately:
✅ Total Principal Invested
✅ Total Assets (Final Value)
✅ Investment Gains
✅ Actual Annual Return (IRR)
✅ Complete Annual Breakdown
😱 Hidden Traps of Dollar-Cost Averaging: Things You Might Not Consider
Trap 1: "Average Return" ≠ "Actual Return"
Will you really get the 8% return the advisor mentioned?
| Item |
Advisor Says |
Actually Get |
| Fund Annual Return |
8% |
8% |
| Expense Ratio |
- |
-1.5% |
| Purchase Fee |
- |
-1.5% (initial) |
| Actual Return |
8% |
6.5% ❌ |
Difference After 20 Years?
- $600/month at 8% return: $315,600
- $600/month at 6.5% return: $281,100
- Difference: -$34,500 ❌
Conclusion: Fees eating 1.5% means $34,500 less over 20 years
Trap 2: Will You Really Keep Contributing When Markets Crash?
Reality of 2008 Financial Crisis:
| Month |
0050 Price |
Investor Reaction |
| 2007/10 |
$21 |
Happily investing 😊 |
| 2008/10 |
$10.50 (-50%) |
Panic, stop contributing 😱 |
| 2009/3 |
$9 (bottom) |
Even more scared, want to sell 😰 |
| 2010/1 |
$18 (recovery) |
Regret stopping 😭 |
Statistics:
- During 2008 financial crisis, about 70% of dollar-cost averaging investors stopped
- 50% sold near the bottom (left at a loss)
- Only 30% kept contributing (made significant gains later)
Real Case (from forums):
> "I started dollar-cost averaging into 0050 in 2007, $300/month
> 2008 financial crisis, lost 40%, scared and stopped
> If I had continued, I'd have $60,000 more now..."
Trap 3: "Dollar-Cost Averaging" Isn't Always Better Than "Lump Sum"
Myth: Dollar-cost averaging is always safer than lump sum?
Wrong! It depends on market trends:
Scenario A: Bull Market (Continuous Rise)
- Lump sum: Buy at low point early, earn most ✅
- Dollar-cost averaging: Buy higher each time, lower returns ❌
Scenario B: Bear Market (Continuous Decline)
- Lump sum: Buy at high point early, severe losses ❌
- Dollar-cost averaging: Buy more as it drops, average cost ✅
Scenario C: Volatile Market (Ups and Downs)
- Lump sum: Luck dependent
- Dollar-cost averaging: Average cost ✅
Conclusion:
- Have a large sum + bullish outlook → Lump sum
- No large sum + can't predict highs/lows → Dollar-cost averaging
Trap 4: Stop at Lows, Add at Highs (Human Nature)
Ideal Dollar-Cost Averaging:
- Market drops → Keep contributing (buying cheap)
- Market rises → Keep contributing (maintaining discipline)
Actual Human Reaction:
- Market drops → Panic, stop ❌
- Market rises → Excited, add more ❌
Result:
- Stopping at lows = Miss buying cheap opportunity
- Adding at highs = Buy at peak
Real Data:
- March 2020 pandemic crash, stop rate: 65%
- January 2021 market high, subscription rate: +150%
Conclusion: Human nature is the biggest enemy of dollar-cost averaging
💡 How to Overcome Dollar-Cost Averaging Traps?
Strategy 1: Automatic Deduction, Not Manual
Why?
- Automatic deduction → No monthly decision about "should I contribute?"
- Manual contribution → Fighting human nature every month
Setup Methods:
- Broker automatic deduction (fixed date monthly)
- Paycheck auto-transfer (on payday)
Strategy 2: Don't Check Your Account, Reduce Emotional Volatility
Statistics:
- Investors who check daily, annual return: 4.2%
- Investors who check monthly, annual return: 6.8%
- Investors who check yearly, annual return: 8.1%
Why?
- Seeing losses → Panic, stop contributing
- Seeing big gains → Excited, cash out
Recommendation:
- After setting up automatic deduction, check performance once a year
- Only adjust investment amount at year-end
Strategy 3: Choose Low-Cost ETFs, Avoid High-Fee Funds
ETF vs Fund Fee Comparison:
| Item |
0050 |
VT |
Active Fund |
| Expense Ratio |
0.43% |
0.07% |
1.5-2% |
| Purchase Fee |
0.1% |
0 |
2-3% |
| Total Cost |
0.53% |
0.07% |
3.5-5% |
Difference After 20 Years?
- $600/month after 0.5% fees: $304,500
- $600/month after 2% fees: $259,500
- Difference: -$45,000 ❌
Recommendation:
- Taiwan: Choose 0050, 0056
- Global: Choose VT, VTI
- Avoid: Active funds, dividend funds
Strategy 4: When Markets Crash, Add More Instead
Counter-Human-Nature Strategy:
- Market drops 20% → Add 20% more
- Market drops 40% → Add 40% more
Case Study: 2008 Financial Crisis
| Investor |
Strategy |
Assets After 20 Years |
| A |
Stopped during crash |
$56,700 ❌ |
| B |
Maintained contributions |
$88,800 ✅ |
| C |
Doubled down during crash |
$123,600 ✅✅ |
Conclusion: Crashes are the best times to add more
🛠️ GoalApp Complete Decision Toolkit
Dollar-cost averaging isn't the only financial decision. We recommend pairing with these tools:
📈 Investment Planning Tools
1. Dollar-Cost Averaging Calculator
- 💡 For: Knowing how much X/month for N years becomes
- 🎯 Function: Calculate IRR for regular investments
- ❓ Question: "Saving $600/month in 0050, how much after 20 years?"
2. Retirement Calculator
- 💡 For: Knowing if dollar-cost averaging meets retirement goals
- 🎯 Function: Calculate retirement year and annual withdrawal
- ❓ Question: "Investing $900/month, when can I retire?"
3. Systematic Withdrawal Calculator
- 💡 For: Regular withdrawals from investments after retirement
- 🎯 Function: Simulate monthly withdrawal cash flow
- ❓ Question: "With $450,000 retirement fund, withdrawing $1,800/month, how long will it last?"
💰 Asset Allocation Tools
4. Mortgage Arbitrage Analysis
- 💡 For: Deciding whether to pay off mortgage early or invest
- 🎯 Function: Calculate opportunity cost of "early payoff vs investing"
- ❓ Question: "Should I pay off mortgage early or invest in 0050?"
5. Installment vs Cash Decision
- 💡 For: Large purchases—pay cash or installments?
- 🎯 Function: Compare true cost of "0% installment" vs "cash discount"
- ❓ Question: "5% cash discount vs installments and invest the difference?"
❓ Dollar-Cost Averaging FAQ
Q1: How Much Should I Dollar-Cost Average?
A: At least 10-20% of monthly income
Recommended Allocation:
- $900/month salary: Invest $90-180
- $1,500/month salary: Invest $150-300
- $3,000/month salary: Invest $300-600
Examples:
- $150/month for 30 years: ~$223,500 (8% return)
- $300/month for 30 years: ~$447,000 (8% return)
- $600/month for 30 years: ~$894,000 (8% return)
Q2: How Long Does Dollar-Cost Averaging Take to Be Effective?
A: At least 10 years, recommended 20+ years
Compound Effect Needs Time:
| Investment Period |
Principal |
Final Value (8%) |
Multiple |
| 5 years |
$18,000 |
$22,200 |
1.2x |
| 10 years |
$36,000 |
$54,900 |
1.5x |
| 15 years |
$54,000 |
$104,100 |
1.9x |
| 20 years |
$72,000 |
$177,900 |
2.5x |
| 30 years |
$108,000 |
$447,000 |
4.1x |
Conclusion:
- First 10 years: Compound effect not obvious
- 10-20 years: Starts accelerating
- 20+ years: Exponential growth
Q3: Should I Choose 0050 or VT?
A: Depends on your investment preference
0050 (Taiwan Top 50):
- ✅ Invests only in Taiwan's top 50 companies
- ✅ TWD denominated, no currency risk
- ✅ Taiwan long-term return ~8-9%
- ❌ Concentrated in Taiwan market, higher risk
VT (Vanguard Total World Stock ETF):
- ✅ Invests in 9,000+ global stocks
- ✅ Diversified (US 60%, Europe 15%, Asia 15%)
- ✅ Global market long-term return ~7-8%
- ❌ USD denominated, currency risk
Recommendation:
- Bullish on Taiwan → 0050
- Want diversification → VT
- Or split between both
Q4: What Day of the Month Should I Set for Auto-Deduction?
A: Statistically, there's no best day
Research Shows:
- Beginning, middle, end of month—long-term return difference under 0.5%
- Key is "consistent contribution," not "timing"
Recommendation:
- Choose payday or day after (ensure funds available)
- Avoid month-end (might have insufficient balance)
Q5: Should I Stop When Markets Crash?
A: Absolutely not! You should add more instead
Statistics:
- Investors who kept contributing, average annual return: 8.2%
- Investors who stopped during crash, average annual return: 4.1%
Why Not Stop?
- Market down = Buying cheaper stocks
- Long-term, markets always rise
- Stopping = Missing low-price buying opportunity
Recommendation:
- Normal market: Maintain contributions
- Market down 20%: Add 20%
- Market down 40%: Add 40% (if you have spare cash)
Q6: Will I Buy at the Peak?
A: Yes, but it doesn't matter
Dollar-Cost Averaging Feature:
- Sometimes buy at highs (pay more)
- Sometimes buy at lows (get bargains)
- Long-term average cost approaches market average
Case Study: 2020-2024 Investing in 0050
| Year |
Stock Price |
Shares Bought ($300/month) |
| 2020 |
$24 |
12.5 shares |
| 2021 |
$42 (high) |
7.1 shares ❌ |
| 2022 |
$30 |
10 shares |
| 2023 |
$36 |
8.3 shares |
| 2024 |
$45 |
6.7 shares |
| Average Cost |
$35.40 |
8.9 shares/month |
Conclusion:
- Bought at 2021 high ($42), but only a small portion
- Long-term average cost ($35.40) still reasonable
Q7: Where Should I Put the Money?
A: Open a brokerage account, buy ETFs directly
Not Recommended:
- ❌ Bank mutual funds (high fees 1.5-2%)
- ❌ Savings insurance (low returns 1-2%)
- ❌ Term deposits (1.5% returns, can't beat inflation)
Recommended:
- ✅ Brokerage account for 0050, VT (low fees 0.3-0.5%)
- ✅ International brokerage for US ETFs (for larger amounts)
Account Opening Process:
- Choose broker (e.g., Schwab, Fidelity, Vanguard)
- Online application (need ID, bank account)
- Set up automatic investment (minimum $50/month)
- Automatic deduction
Q8: Should I Cash Out After Making Money?
A: Depends on your investment goal
Scenario A: Saving for Retirement (Long-term Investment)
- Don't cash out, keep accumulating
- Only gradually sell 3-5 years before retirement
- Or use "systematic withdrawal" method
Scenario B: Saving for Down Payment (5-10 Year Goal)
- Cash out when reaching target amount
- Example: Save $60,000 for house down payment
Scenario C: Market Surge (Taking Profits)
- Not recommended to cash out entirely
- Can cash out portion (e.g., 50% of gains)
- Keep principal invested
Q9: What's a Good Return Rate for Dollar-Cost Averaging?
A: Long-term annual return of 6-8% is reasonable
Reference Data:
- 0050 long-term annual return: ~8-9%
- VT long-term annual return: ~7-8%
- Bond ETFs: ~3-4%
- Term deposits: ~1.5%
Evaluation Standards:
- Below 5%: Too conservative
- 5-7%: Reasonable
- 7-10%: Good
- Above 10%: Unrealistic (or very high risk)
Q10: Can I Stop Contributions Midway?
A: Yes, but depends on the reason
Acceptable Reasons to Stop:
- ✅ Job loss, significant income reduction
- ✅ Emergency requiring cash
- ✅ Already achieved investment goal
Bad Reasons to Stop:
- ❌ Market crash, panic from losses
- ❌ Saw other investment opportunities
- ❌ Friend says dollar-cost averaging is bad
Recommendation:
- If you really need to stop, don't cash out
- Keep existing investments to continue growing
- Resume contributions when able
🎯 Final Advice
Don't Ask "Is Dollar-Cost Averaging Good?"
Ask "Can I Stick With It for 20 Years?"
Keys to Dollar-Cost Averaging Success:
- Choose low-cost ETFs (0050, VT)
- Set up automatic deduction (reduce human interference)
- Don't check your account (reduce emotional volatility)
- Stick with it 20+ years (compound needs time)
- Keep contributing during crashes (or even add more)
There's no absolute answer, only the answer that fits you best.
📌 Action Steps
- Calculate Your Goal → GoalApp Dollar-Cost Averaging Calculator
- Open a Brokerage Account → Choose a broker (Schwab, Fidelity, Vanguard)
- Set Up Automatic Deduction → Fixed date and amount monthly
- Choose Your Investment → 0050 or VT
- Stick With It for 20 Years → Don't check, don't stop, don't cash out
💡 Why Use GoalApp?
Our Promise:
- No Fees - Completely free, no hidden costs
- No Sales Pitch - We won't recommend any funds or ETFs
- No Data Collection - No registration, no phone calls to bother you
- 100% Objective - Just numbers, decisions are yours
Difference from Financial Advisor Calculations:
| Item |
Advisor Calculation |
GoalApp |
| Cost |
Free on surface, but charges fees |
Completely free ✅ |
| Sales |
Will push their funds ❌ |
Completely neutral ✅ |
| Fee Transparency |
Won't mention expense ratios ❌ |
Shows full fee impact ✅ |
| Data |
Requires phone, email ❌ |
No registration ✅ |
| Pressure |
Advisor keeps calling ❌ |
No sales harassment ✅ |
Remember: No guessing, just calculating.
🔗 Further Reading
Want to learn more financial decision skills?
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