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Dollar Cost Averaging (DCA)

strategy
investing
risk management

Dollar cost averaging buys a fixed amount at regular intervals to reduce timing risk and smooth entry prices over time.

Acronym
DCA
Also known as
DCA
Cost Averaging
Periodic Investing
1
strategy

Dollar cost averaging (DCA) is a rules-based approach that splits purchases into equal amounts over a schedule, such as weekly or monthly buys. It reduces dependence on choosing one perfect entry price.

2
benefits

DCA can reduce emotional decision-making and make volatile markets easier to approach. It does not guarantee profit or a lower average cost; in a steadily rising market, a lump-sum purchase would have performed better.

3
considerations

Fees, spreads, taxes, and custody choices matter. Very small recurring buys can be inefficient if exchange fees or withdrawal fees consume a large percentage of each purchase.

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