Compound Interest Formula:
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The compound interest formula calculates the future value of an investment or savings account by accounting for the effect of compounding, where interest is earned on both the initial principal and the accumulated interest from previous periods.
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: Calculating future value helps individuals plan their savings and investments, understand the power of compounding, and make informed financial decisions for long-term goals.
Tips: Enter the principal amount in GBP, 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.
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.
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: What is a typical interest rate for UK savings accounts?
A: Interest rates vary by account type and economic conditions, typically ranging from 0.5% to 5% for standard savings accounts.
Q4: Are there taxes on savings interest in the UK?
A: Yes, interest earned on savings may be subject to tax, though there are allowances such as the Personal Savings Allowance (PSA).
Q5: Can this calculator be used for other currencies?
A: While the formula works for any currency, this calculator is specifically designed for GBP. For other currencies, ensure proper conversion if needed.