Equity mutual funds provide two primary investment options: growth and dividend (IDCW). The growth option is ideal for long-term investors as it allows profits to compound, enhancing wealth over time. In contrast, the IDCW option offers regular income but may lead to lower overall returns due to capital withdrawal. Rohan Goyal, an Investment Research Analyst at MIRA Money, emphasizes that growth is the superior choice for most investors, particularly younger ones who can benefit from compounding without needing immediate cash flows. For example, a ₹1 lakh investment in a fund with a 12% Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) could grow to nearly ₹17 lakh over 25 years in a growth option, whereas the IDCW option would yield significantly less. Additionally, the Net Asset Value (NAV) of IDCW funds is typically lower than that of growth funds, as dividends reduce the NAV. Tax efficiency also favors the growth option, with capital gains taxed only upon redemption, while IDCW dividends are taxed at the investor's income tax slab, which can be substantially higher. Overall, while both options serve different investor needs, growth is generally recommended for those looking to build wealth over the long term.