Is it better to invest a lump sum all at once or drip feed into the market?

8 April, 2026

Question by Boring Money reader

Is it better to invest in one go or to drip feed regularly into the market?

Answered by Holly Mackay

I generally think it's a good idea to drip feed in and balance out your buying price. If you have a lump sum, you can always contribute to a pension or ISA, use up your maximum allowance for that tax year, but leave it in a cash account within that tax wrapper — then set up 12 monthly regular savings instructions, for example.

Answered by

Holly Mackay

Founder & CEO, Boring Money

I’ve worked in investment markets for over 20 years. I started out at Merrill Lynch Investment Management and worked at a few big names before setting up my first business in 2008.

I like words and ideas more than numbers. I like investing because at the end of the day it’s about using our money to fund innovation and growth. That’s more fun than any graph!

I like explaining things and ‘bullshit-bashing’. Away from work I like travelling, reading, wine, dinghy sailing, swimming in the sea and running.

I am not very good at sitting still and a manicure is my idea of hell. I have 2 amazing kids and a dog of little brain. Like most people, I'm currently craving a good beach holiday and the smell of sun tan lotion!

NB: Holly is not a qualified financial planner or adviser, she does not take on any individual clients and is unable to accept any requests to provide personalised financial advice. Sorry!

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