Investment Calculator
Project your investment growth and plan your financial future
// Return Rate Comparison
Year-by-Year Breakdown
| Year | Contributions | Gains | Total Invested | Balance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 📈 Calculate above to see yearly growth | ||||
How to Use the Investment Calculator
Enter your initial lump sum investment, monthly contribution amount, expected annual return rate, and investment period. You can also enter an inflation rate to see what your future balance is worth in today's money — known as the inflation-adjusted or "real" value.
Investment Type Presets
Use the tabs above to load typical return rate defaults for different asset classes. Stock market investments have historically averaged around 7–10% annually over the long term. Bonds typically return 3–5%. Savings accounts currently yield 4–5% in many countries. Use the Custom tab to enter any rate you like.
How Returns Are Calculated
What Return Rate Should I Use?
Historical averages by asset class (nominal, before inflation): global stock markets 7–10%, bonds 3–5%, real estate 6–8%, high-yield savings 4–5%, cash/money market 2–4%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Why Include Inflation?
Inflation erodes purchasing power over time. At 3% inflation, £100 today buys what £74 buys in 10 years. The inflation-adjusted value in this calculator shows what your future balance is worth in today's money — giving you a more realistic picture of your real wealth.
From the Blog
// Time in Market
Time in the market beats timing the market. Starting early is the single most powerful investment decision you can make.
// Diversify
Spreading investments across asset classes (stocks, bonds, real estate) reduces risk without necessarily reducing returns.
// Fees Matter
A 1% annual fee can reduce your final balance by 20–30% over 30 years. Always check expense ratios on funds.
// Real Returns
Subtract inflation from your return rate to get your real return. 8% nominal at 3% inflation = ~5% real growth.