Compound Interest Formula:
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The compound interest formula calculates the future value of an investment or savings account where interest is compounded at regular intervals. It's particularly useful for New Zealand savings accounts with various compounding frequencies.
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, accounting for interest earned on both the principal and accumulated interest.
Details: Understanding compound interest helps New Zealand savers make informed decisions about their investments, compare different savings products, and plan for long-term financial goals.
Tips: Enter principal amount in NZD, annual interest rate as a decimal (e.g., 0.05 for 5%), compounding frequency (e.g., 12 for monthly), and time 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: Are there tax implications for interest earnings in NZ?
A: Yes, interest earnings are generally taxable in New Zealand and must be declared to Inland Revenue.
Q4: What are typical compounding frequencies for NZ savings accounts?
A: Common frequencies include daily, monthly, quarterly, and annually, depending on the financial institution and account type.
Q5: Can this calculator be used for other investments?
A: While designed for savings accounts, the formula applies to any investment where interest compounds at regular intervals.