Cash Flow & Accumulation
Future Value Lens
See how money you already have and money you add regularly could grow over time. You can also use it to compare a recurring expense with setting the same amount aside. It is a way to see the trade-off, not a reason to cut every enjoyable expense.
Shape your comparison
Your inputs stay in this browser only.
A lump sum you start with today. Leave blank to look at regular amounts only.
The amount you would add each time, or the expense you would set aside instead.
Use this for an expense that occurs only on certain days, such as buying lunch three workdays a week.
Try a starting point
The model assumes equal end-of-period deposits and a constant rate, compounded at the selected frequency. It does not reflect tax, fees, inflation, changing rates, or periods of loss.
Your side-by-side snapshot
Spend it now, or set it aside
If the habit continues
$98,280
Projected cash-flow spending over 18 years at $35 3 days each week.
If you set it aside
$157,387
- Contributions
- $98,280
- Illustrative growth
- +$59,107
Uses the selected 5.0% annual growth assumption. This is illustrative, not a prediction.
The trade-off over time
Gold is the money you put in, including any starting amount. Blue adds the modelled growth assumption.
Monthly contribution view
Average amount set aside per month, based on the frequency above.
$455
estimated monthly average
$35 × 3 days each week × 52 weeks ÷ 12 months. Actual calendar months will vary.
Use this as a conversation starter
A useful plan protects room for living today while directing deliberate amounts toward the goals that matter to your household.
Discuss a future goalFor educational purposes only. This comparison does not predict investment performance and is not financial, investment, tax, or legal advice. Actual results can be lower or higher, including losses. Please consider your circumstances and obtain appropriate advice before acting.