On the surface, an interest rate is just a number. How that number applies to debt or equity opens up a world of possibilities. The first consideration is always whether it’s simple interest vs.

Simple interest calculates earnings or payments based solely on the initial principal, while compound interest grows by calculating interest on both the principal and the accumulated interest over ...

Simple interest is paid only on the principal, e.g., a $10,000 investment at 5% yields $500 annually. Compound interest accumulates on both principal and past interest, increasing total returns over ...

If you’re an investor looking to understand the benefits of compound interest, consider the example set by the legendary Warren Buffett. The 93-year-old’s net worth has grown to $137 billion over the ...

When you plan a personal loan, understanding how interest works is just as important as knowing the loan amount. Many people ...

Earning interest remains one of the cornerstones of investing and lets you earn passive income by putting your money into interest-bearing securities or accounts. Compound interest allows you to ...

Capital at risk. The value of your investments can go up and down, and you may get back less than you invest. Compound interest is what you get when interest or income earned on an account goes on to ...

A simple interest loan doesn’t charge you additional interest on your accrued interest. In other words, the only interest you pay is on the outstanding principal balance of your loan. Auto loans and ...

Interest can be charged when you borrow money or earned when you save. When you charge something on a credit card or take out a loan from a financial institution (student loan, auto loan, mortgage, ...

Finances FYI is a weekly series providing straightforward finance tips and best practices to help improve financial literacy. If you have a savings account, you know what interest is. It’s that little ...