Compound Interest Formula:
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Compound interest is the interest calculated on the initial principal and also on the accumulated interest of 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 an investment will grow over time when interest is compounded at regular intervals.
Details: Understanding compound interest is crucial for financial planning, savings growth, and investment decisions. It demonstrates how money can grow exponentially over time, making it a powerful tool for wealth accumulation.
Tips: Enter the principal amount in GBP, annual interest rate as a decimal (e.g., 0.05 for 5%), select compounding frequency, 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 does compounding frequency affect returns?
A: More frequent compounding (e.g., monthly vs annually) results in higher returns due to interest being calculated and added more often.
Q3: Is this calculator specific to UK investments?
A: While the formula is universal, this calculator uses GBP currency and is designed with UK financial contexts in mind.
Q4: Can I use this for savings accounts?
A: Yes, this calculator works for any investment or savings account that uses compound interest, including UK savings accounts.
Q5: Are taxes considered in this calculation?
A: No, this calculator provides pre-tax returns. Actual returns may vary based on individual tax circumstances.