Compound Interest Calculator

Calculate the power of compound interest over time. See how your investments could grow with different parameters.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is compound interest?

Compound interest is the interest on a loan or deposit calculated based on both the initial principal and the accumulated interest from previous periods.

How is compound interest different from simple interest?

Simple interest is calculated only on the principal amount, whereas compound interest is calculated on the principal amount and also on the accumulated interest of previous periods.

What is the formula for compound interest?

The formula for compound interest is A = P(1 + r/n)^(nt), where A is the amount of money accumulated after n years, including interest. P is the principal amount, r is the annual interest rate, n is the number of times that interest is compounded per year, and t is the time the money is invested for in years.

What is the principal amount?

The principal amount is the initial sum of money invested or loaned.

What is the annual interest rate?

The annual interest rate is the percentage increase on the principal amount per year.

What is compounding frequency?

Compounding frequency refers to the number of times interest is added to the principal balance in a year. Common frequencies include annually, semi-annually, quarterly, monthly, and daily.

How does compounding frequency affect compound interest?

The more frequently interest is compounded, the more interest will be accumulated over time. For example, interest compounded monthly will accumulate more interest than interest compounded annually.

What is the difference between nominal and effective interest rates?

The nominal interest rate is the stated interest rate on a loan or investment, while the effective interest rate takes into account the effect of compounding over a given period.

What is continuous compounding?

Continuous compounding is the mathematical limit that compound interest can reach if it is calculated and added to the principal balance an infinite number of times per year. The formula for continuous compounding is A = Pe^(rt), where e is the base of the natural logarithm.

How can I calculate compound interest?

You can calculate compound interest using the formula A = P(1 + r/n)^(nt) or by using online compound interest calculators.

What factors affect the amount of compound interest?

The amount of compound interest is affected by the principal amount, the annual interest rate, the compounding frequency, and the time period of the investment or loan.

What is the Rule of 72?

The Rule of 72 is a simple way to estimate the number of years required to double the investment at a fixed annual rate of interest. You divide 72 by the annual interest rate to get the approximate number of years.

Can compound interest work against you?

Yes, compound interest can work against you if you have a loan or credit card debt with a high interest rate. The interest will accumulate over time, increasing the amount you owe.

What is an example of compound interest?

If you invest $1,000 at an annual interest rate of 5% compounded annually, after 10 years, the investment will grow to $1,628.89.

What is the impact of time on compound interest?

The longer the time period, the more compound interest will accumulate. This is why it is beneficial to start investing early to take advantage of the power of compound interest.

What is the impact of interest rate on compound interest?

A higher interest rate will result in more compound interest accumulated over time. Even a small increase in the interest rate can have a significant impact on the final amount.

What is the impact of principal amount on compound interest?

A larger principal amount will result in more compound interest accumulated over time. The initial investment plays a crucial role in the growth of the investment.

What is the impact of compounding frequency on compound interest?

More frequent compounding will result in more compound interest accumulated over time. For example, monthly compounding will accumulate more interest than annual compounding.

How can I maximize the benefits of compound interest?

To maximize the benefits of compound interest, start investing early, invest regularly, choose investments with higher interest rates, and opt for more frequent compounding.

What are some common uses of compound interest?

Compound interest is commonly used in savings accounts, fixed deposits, retirement accounts, and investment portfolios to grow wealth over time.