Compound Interest Formula:
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The compound interest formula calculates the future value of a savings account by accounting for interest earned on both the initial principal and accumulated interest. It provides a more accurate projection of savings growth compared to simple interest calculations.
The calculator uses the compound interest formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates how much your savings will grow over time with compound interest, accounting for how frequently interest is added to your account.
Details: Understanding compound interest helps savers make informed decisions about their investments, compare different savings products, and plan for long-term financial goals in the Irish market.
Tips: Enter principal amount in EUR, 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, leading to faster growth over time.
Q2: How does compounding frequency affect savings?
A: More frequent compounding (daily vs. annually) results in higher returns because interest is added to the principal more often, allowing for interest-on-interest growth.
Q3: Are Irish savings accounts subject to taxes?
A: Yes, interest earned on savings in Ireland may be subject to Deposit Interest Retention Tax (DIRT). This calculator shows gross returns before tax deductions.
Q4: What are typical compounding frequencies in Ireland?
A: Common compounding frequencies include daily, monthly, quarterly, and annually, depending on the financial institution and account type.
Q5: Can I use this for regular savings contributions?
A: This calculator is for lump-sum investments. For regular contributions, you would need a different formula that accounts for periodic deposits.