Compare return assumptions without changing the savings plan
All three scenarios share the initial amount, monthly contribution and time horizon. Each has its own effective annual return and balance fee. Keeping deposits constant makes the result difference attributable to the return-and-fee assumptions rather than to quietly saving more in one scenario.
Fee drag includes missed future growth
Fees deducted are the actual modeled charges removed from the balance. Fee drag is the terminal difference between the scenario and an otherwise identical no-fee calculation. It includes the future growth that those removed fees could have earned. At a positive rate, these two amounts generally differ.
Read the table before comparing the chart
The chart displays scenario B, while the table and summary show all three scenarios. None is presented as an expected market outcome. Annual effective rates are converted to monthly growth factors, and annual balance fees use an equivalent period retention factor after growth. Deposits arrive at the end of the month.
Questions about this calculation
How can I check the inputs behind the result?
Open “Show calculation & assumptions” for the formula and timing conventions, then inspect the breakdown. Export CSV to keep the last calculated inputs and numerical results together.
Does this include taxes or changing market returns?
No tax calculation or variable market-return path is included. The task-specific assumptions above describe the scope. Calculated values are conditional on the inputs, not personalized recommendations.
Learn more
Start with the step-by-step future value formula guide.
Open the formula guide →How to calculate future value · Spreadsheet calculations · All learning guides
Use these figures to explore assumptions. Actual interest, returns, fees, taxes and purchasing power can differ.