Compound Interest Formula:
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Compound interest is interest calculated on the initial principal and also on the accumulated interest from previous periods. It allows savings to grow faster as interest is earned on both the original amount and the interest already earned.
The calculator uses the compound interest formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates how much your savings will grow when interest is compounded at regular intervals over time.
Details: Understanding compound interest is crucial for long-term savings planning. It demonstrates how small, regular contributions can grow significantly over time, making it a powerful tool for wealth accumulation.
Tips: Enter principal amount in GBP, annual interest rate as a decimal (e.g., 0.05 for 5%), compounding frequency (how many times per year interest is added), and time period in years. All values must be positive numbers.
Q1: What's the difference between simple and compound interest?
A: Simple interest is calculated only on the principal amount, while compound interest is calculated on both the principal and accumulated interest.
Q2: How often do UK savings accounts typically compound interest?
A: Most UK savings accounts compound interest monthly or annually, though some may compound daily or quarterly.
Q3: Are there tax implications for interest earned?
A: In the UK, interest earned on savings may be subject to tax, though most people have a Personal Savings Allowance.
Q4: Can I use this calculator for regular contributions?
A: This calculator assumes a single lump sum investment. For regular contributions, a different formula would be needed.
Q5: How accurate is this calculator for real savings accounts?
A: This provides a theoretical calculation. Actual returns may vary based on specific account terms, fees, and rate changes.