Finance
Investment Calculator
Calculate the future value of investments using an initial balance, recurring monthly contributions, expected annual return, and different compounding frequencies.
About This Tool
Estimate how investments may grow over time using compound returns and recurring monthly contributions. Compare scenarios by adjusting starting balance, contribution amount, annual return, time horizon, and compounding frequency.
Future Value of an Investment
FV = P x (1 + r / n)^(n x t) + PMT x [((1 + i)^m - 1) / i]P is the starting balance, r is the annual return, n is compounding periods per year, t is years invested, PMT is each contribution, i is the periodic contribution growth rate, and m is the number of contribution periods.
How To Interpret The Projection
The ending value is a scenario estimate, not a promise. A steady annual return is useful for planning, but real markets move unevenly and can produce losses in some years.
Separate total contributions from investment growth. Contributions show how much you put in; growth shows how much compounding and assumed returns add over time.
Better Scenario Planning
Run conservative, expected, and optimistic return assumptions. The gap between them is often more useful than a single point estimate.
For long horizons, inflation matters. A nominal portfolio value may look large while buying less in future dollars.
Examples
Long-term investing
Initial investment: $10,000; monthly contribution: $500; annual return: 8%; time: 20 years
Result: Projected portfolio value after 20 years, split into contributions and estimated growth.
Retirement planning
Initial investment: $25,000; monthly contribution: $1,000; annual return: 7%; time: 30 years
Result: Estimated retirement portfolio value for a long-term accumulation scenario.
Starting from zero
Initial investment: $0; monthly contribution: $300; annual return: 10%; time: 15 years
Result: Estimated investment growth from recurring monthly investing.
FAQ
Does this calculator include recurring monthly contributions?
Yes. It calculates the future value of both your initial investment and recurring monthly contributions.
Can I change the compounding frequency?
Yes. You can compare annual, quarterly, monthly, and daily compounding to see how schedules affect long-term growth.
Are these results guaranteed?
No. Investment returns are never guaranteed. This calculator estimates outcomes from the assumptions you enter and should not be considered financial advice.
Important Note
Results are estimates for planning and education. They do not replace financial, tax, legal, or professional advice. Review assumptions before making decisions.
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