Compound Interest Formula:
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The compound interest formula calculates the future value of an investment or savings account by accounting for interest earned on both the initial principal and accumulated interest over time. It's particularly relevant for understanding savings growth in the Australian financial context.
The calculator uses the compound interest formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula demonstrates how money grows over time through compounding, where interest is earned on previously accumulated interest.
Details: Understanding compound interest is crucial for financial planning, savings strategies, and investment decisions in the Australian market. It helps individuals project their savings growth and make informed financial choices.
Tips: Enter principal in AUD, annual interest rate as a decimal (e.g., 0.05 for 5%), number of compounding periods per year, and time in years. All values must be positive numbers.
Q1: How does compounding frequency affect savings?
A: More frequent compounding (higher n) results in higher returns because interest is calculated and added to the principal more often.
Q2: What are typical compounding periods in Australia?
A: Common compounding frequencies include daily (n=365), monthly (n=12), quarterly (n=4), and annually (n=1).
Q3: How does this apply to Australian savings accounts?
A: Most Australian savings accounts compound interest daily and pay monthly, making this calculator relevant for comparing different savings products.
Q4: Are there tax implications on earned interest?
A: Yes, in Australia, interest earned is generally considered taxable income and must be declared to the ATO.
Q5: How accurate is this calculator for real-world applications?
A: While mathematically accurate, actual returns may vary due to changing interest rates, fees, and other account-specific factors.