Investment Return Calculator
Lump sum or steady pebbles? See which path grows your pile.
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- Final value
- Total invested
- Investment gain
- Lump sum alone
A note on returns
The annual return you enter is a long-term planning assumption for diversified stock investments (like index funds) — a projection, not a guaranteed rate. For context: cash savings currently earn around 4%, while the stock market has averaged about 10% a year before inflation (roughly 7% after) over the past century. Actual returns vary year to year, and past performance never guarantees future results.
Investment return FAQ
What is the difference between lump sum and monthly investing?
A lump sum starts working immediately; monthly investing (dollar-cost averaging) spreads risk. Both can work well.
Does this account for inflation?
No. Returns are nominal; subtract expected inflation (~2-3%) for a rough real return.
Is the return I enter a guaranteed rate?
No. The return is a long-term planning assumption for a diversified portfolio — not a bank deposit rate (cash savings currently earn around 4%). Historically stocks have averaged about 10% a year before inflation. Returns vary and past performance never guarantees future results.