Tools

Compound Growth Calculator

Project growth using a custom return or historical CAGR from SPY, Nasdaq-100 (QQQ), or total U.S. market (VTI)—with full past-performance disclosures.

Return basis

Benchmark

Historical lookback

Match the window to the goal — e.g. ~2 years for a near-term need, 18 for college, 30+ for retirement. Presets stay available for quick comparisons. Tip: set lookback near the years until the goal, then compare presets.

Charts below replay S&P 500 monthly returns over the lookback — including drawdowns — then show a separate smooth forward illustration.

Starting balance

Monthly contribution

Forward projection horizon (years)

Hypothetical forward projection

Smooth constant return of 12.8% — does not include future volatility or sequence risk.

Assumed return

12.8%

Projected value

$2,378,816

Total contributed

$340,000

Hypothetical forward @ constant 12.8% — ignores volatility

Total contributed (no growth)

Scroll / drag to pan · pinch or wheel to zoom

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