AMC SIP vs SIP: What’s the Difference and Which One is Right for You

Introduction

SIP, or Systematic Investment Plan, is one of the most popular ways to invest in mutual funds. It’s easy, automated, and helps build wealth steadily. But if you’ve ever tried starting a SIP online, you’ve likely come across two options: starting an SIP directly through an AMC (Asset Management Company), or doing it via a third-party platform.

Why Investors Get Confused Between AMC SIP and Regular SIP

At first glance, both options look the same—you invest regularly, the amount gets deducted automatically, and your mutual fund units are credited. But dig a little deeper, and there are differences in how each route works, who manages the process, and what kind of control and visibility you have.

This Guide Will Help You Choose the Right Approach

This article will explain everything you need about AMC SIP vs SIP through investment platforms. We’ll explain what each one means, how they function, and when you should choose either of them based on your goals and preferences. If you’ve ever wondered about the difference between AMC SIP and SIP, this guide is for you.

What is SIP in Mutual Funds

When investing, the first question you’d have is what is SIP? Here’s a low-down for you. 

Quick Refresher: What Does SIP Mean

SIP, or Systematic Investment Plan, is a simple method of investing a fixed amount in a mutual fund scheme at regular intervals—usually monthly. Instead of making a lump-sum investment, SIP helps you stagger your investment over time, reducing the risk of market fluctuations.

It is often compared to a recurring deposit in terms of discipline, but unlike a fixed interest product, returns from mutual funds depend on market performance.

How SIP Works as a Mode of Investing

Here’s how SIP works:

• You select a mutual fund scheme (for example, a large-cap equity fund).
• Choose your SIP amount—say ₹2,000 per month.
• Pick your SIP date (e.g., 5th of every month).
• Set up auto-debit from your bank account.
• Every month, the money gets invested, and you receive mutual fund units based on that day’s NAV (Net Asset Value).
  

The biggest benefit of SIP is rupee-cost averaging. When the markets are high, your SIP buys fewer units. When the market is low, you get more units for the same amount. Over time, this averages out your purchase cost and smoothens the impact of market volatility.

Understanding this foundation is key before comparing AMC SIP vs SIP, as both follow the same basic structure with a few important differences in execution.

What is AMC SIP

To evaluate AMC SIP vs SIP, it’s helpful to understand how a direct AMC route works from start to finish.

AMC SIP Meaning: Investing Directly via Asset Management Company

An AMC SIP refers to starting your SIP investment directly through the official website or app of the Asset Management Company that runs the mutual fund scheme. For instance, if you want to invest in a scheme by SBI Mutual Fund, you can do it directly via SBI MF’s online portal.

There’s no middleman or distributor involved in this case. You are investing straight with the fund house that manages your money.

How AMC SIP Works and Where You Set It Up

To start an AMC SIP, you need to:

1. Register on the AMC’s official portal or mobile app.
2. Complete KYC (if not already done).
3. Choose the mutual fund scheme.
4. Set your SIP amount, frequency, and date.
5. Provide bank details and approve auto-debit via e-mandate.

This process is safe, regulated, and puts you in direct touch with the AMC for all communication.

Examples: AMC SIP via SBI MF, HDFC MF, ICICI Prudential MF

Each major AMC in India offers its own SIP setup:

• SBI Mutual Fund: Allows you to register directly through its online portal with various tools, including an SIP calculator.
• HDFC Mutual Fund: Offers flexible SIP options with reminders and tracking directly on their app.
• ICICI Prudential Mutual Fund: Also enables seamless SIP setup with dashboards and goal-based investing options.
  

You can also reach out to these AMCs for investment advisor services if needed.

AMC SIP vs SIP via Third-Party Platforms

Many investors looking into AMC SIP vs SIP are surprised to find that both routes lead to the same mutual fund, but through different experiences.

What’s the Real Difference Between AMC SIP and Regular SIP

The main difference between AMC SIP and regular SIP via platforms lies in where and how you set them up.

• AMC SIP is created directly with the fund house.
• Platform SIP is initiated using apps like Groww, Zerodha Coin, or Paytm Money that act as intermediaries.
  

In both cases, your money goes into the same mutual fund scheme. But the experience and backend processes differ.

Platform SIP (Groww, Zerodha, Paytm Money) vs AMC SIP

When you invest through platforms, you use one app to track all your SIPs across different AMCs. This makes it convenient, especially if you invest in multiple fund houses.

However, some platforms use a workaround called broker SIP or platform SIP, where the SIP is created on their own system and executed manually on your behalf. If there are technical issues, this can lead to delays or missed executions.

By contrast, an AMC SIP is registered directly with the fund house via NACH (auto-debit system), which is usually more stable and reliable in the long term.

Pros and Cons of AMC SIP and Platform SIP

Option	Pros	Cons
AMC SIP	Lower expense ratio (Direct Plan), better reliability, direct access to the fund house	Can be tedious to manage if investing in multiple AMCs
Platform SIP	Easy to track all SIPs in one place, good for beginners, helpful dashboards	May incur additional charges,, execution delays are possible in broker SIPs

Table: AMC SIP vs SIP Platform Comparison

Here’s a clear breakdown of AMC SIP vs SIP platform features to help you decide.

Feature	AMC SIP	SIP via Platform
Setup Method	Direct with AMC	Through a third-party app/website
Charges	Usually none (Direct Plan)	Some platforms may charge brokerage
Fund Access	Only schemes from that AMC	Schemes from multiple AMCs
User Dashboard	AMC-specific	Unified across AMCs
Execution Reliability	High (direct NACH mandate)	May vary (some use broker SIP)
Customer Support	The AMC team directly	The platform’s support team
Best For	Advanced investors, DIY approach	Beginners, casual investors

Which SIP Mode is Better for You

Choosing between AMC SIP vs SIP through platforms depends on your investment habits, goals, and how much control or convenience you prefer.

When to Choose AMC SIP

Go for AMC SIP if:

• You want to invest in direct plans to save on commission.
• You prefer dealing with the fund house directly.
• You invest in only a few mutual fund schemes.
• You don’t mind managing multiple logins or apps.
  

You may also consider AMC SIP if you’re seeking long-term investments with minimal interference and wish to consult the AMC’s investment advisor services.

When to Opt for SIP via Platforms or Distributors

Choose SIP via third-party platforms when:

• You want to invest across many AMCs.
• You prefer having a single dashboard to track everything.
• You’re a beginner looking for ease and app-based support.
• You want goal-based investing suggestions and analytics.
  

This mode also works well if you use SIP calculators, portfolio tracking tools, and automated nudges offered by these platforms.

Factors to Consider: Goal, Convenience, Fund Variety

When deciding between AMC SIP vs SIP via platforms, ask yourself:

• Do I want to manage and optimize returns actively using direct plans?
• Do I prefer convenience over slightly lower expense ratios?
• Is this SIP for a specific long-term goal, or just general investing?
• Can I switch AMCs or apps to get the best features?
  

In short, SIP vs AMC SIP isn’t right or wrong—it’s about what fits your investment habit and comfort. Besides these, Investors may also come across similar-sounding terms like SIFs (Systematic Investment Facility), which are sometimes used interchangeably with SIPs by certain platforms or financial institutions. If you’re wondering what are SIFs, they typically refer to the same structured, recurring investment approach with minor terminological differences based on providers.

Conclusion

AMC SIP and SIP via Platforms Serve the Same Purpose

AMC SIP and platform SIP are ways to invest in mutual funds through a Systematic Investment Plan. The core investment mechanism remains the same. You commit to investing a fixed amount regularly into a fund.

What changes is the route you take to get there.

Choose What’s More Flexible and Aligned to Your Investment Style

AMC SIP is an excellent choice for maximum savings and direct control. The platform SIP works well if you want everything in one place and easy access.

No matter which platform you choose, what matters most is consistency, discipline, and selecting good funds aligned with your financial goals. Tools like SIP calculators and professional investment advisor services can guide you further.

Disclaimer Note: The securities quoted, if any, are for illustration only and are not recommendatory. This article is for education purposes only and shall not be considered as a recommendation or investment advice by Equentis – Research & Ranking. We will not be liable for any losses that may occur. Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks. Read all the related documents carefully before investing. Registration granted by SEBI, membership of BASL & certification from NISM in no way guarantee the performance of the intermediary or provide any assurance of returns to investors.

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