CA Nitin Kaushik, a chartered accountant, critiques the widely held belief that investing small amounts through Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs) can effortlessly lead to wealth accumulation. He argues that the common portrayal of achieving a corpus of ₹1 crore through a monthly investment of ₹5,000 at 12% returns is misleading, as it does not account for inflation's erosion of purchasing power. Kaushik points out that while the math may seem appealing, the reality is more complex. He emphasizes that inflation can significantly alter the value of future investments, making it crucial for investors to consider their financial needs, which often grow faster than their SIP returns. Additionally, he highlights the volatility of markets, noting that investment returns are rarely linear and can include periods of stagnation and sharp declines. Kaushik advises investors to maintain discipline and consistency in their contributions, particularly during market downturns, as this is essential for long-term wealth creation. He also recommends increasing SIP contributions annually to keep pace with rising incomes and lifestyle inflation, thereby enhancing the compounding effect. Ultimately, Kaushik calls for a shift in focus from simplistic financial targets to a deeper understanding of the factors influencing long-term investment success.