Transparent calculators for clearer money decisions
Run the numbers on your timeline, savings rate, and costs. AssetCraft calculators show all inputs and assumptions in plain language so you can see how each factor affects results. Adjust contributions, expected returns, and fees to test realistic scenarios and understand trade-offs. The goal is to help you make informed decisions that fit your risk tolerance and priorities, not to predict the future.
Figures are estimates based on constant rates and do not include taxes unless specified. Results are educational and not financial advice. Capital can go down as well as up. Consider consulting a regulated adviser for personal recommendations.
How to use these tools
- Start with realistic ranges for returns and fees based on public sources
- Change one input at a time to see sensitivity and trade-offs
- Record scenarios that feel achievable so you can track progress
Compound Growth Calculator
This calculator projects an end balance given an initial amount, regular monthly contributions, a constant annual return, and an annual fee. It uses monthly compounding and assumes deposits occur at the end of each month. The net growth rate equals expected return minus annual fees, which lets you see a more practical picture than ignoring costs. You can also compare the result against a no-fee scenario to understand the long-term drag of costs on compounding.
Use conservative return assumptions to avoid overconfidence. Market returns vary and negative years happen. Fees, taxes, and inflation reduce outcomes over time. Treat results as estimates that help with planning and budgeting, not as promises. If you want to go deeper, pair this calculator with our guides on risk, diversification, and contribution strategies so your plan remains resilient across different market conditions.
Method: monthly compounding with net monthly rate equal to (expected return minus annual fee) divided by 12. Deposits assumed at month end. Fee cost estimated by comparing to a zero-fee projection.
Fee Impact Comparator
Small percentage fees can compound into large differences over long horizons. This tool compares two annual fee levels side by side using the same starting balance, contribution plan, and gross return. By isolating the effect of fees, it shows how a fraction of a percent can shift your end pot and delay goals. Many investors focus on return assumptions but overlook costs, so run a few scenarios to understand how platform and fund charges interact with your saving rate.
The calculator assumes constant gross returns before fees. Real markets are volatile, and fees can vary by provider or tier. Use provider documentation to confirm charges and any minimums. Lower cost is not the only factor to consider, but it is one of the few things in your control. Combine this with our compounding tool to see how changes to contributions can offset higher costs if switching is not practical.
Method: monthly compounding using gross monthly rate minus monthly equivalent of each fee. Deposits assumed at month end.
Retirement Goal Planner
This planner estimates the monthly contribution needed to reach a target pot by a chosen date. It factors in current savings, an expected return, and annual fees to provide a payment figure that fits the timeline. If your current balance is already sufficient at the given assumptions, the tool returns zero. You can then shorten the timeline, lower the return, or increase the target to test how your plan responds.
Assumptions matter. Higher returns reduce required saving, but they also carry higher uncertainty. If the suggested contribution is not feasible, consider extending the horizon, trimming costs, or splitting the goal into stages. Remember that inflation erodes purchasing power, so it can help to express your target in today’s money and then apply an inflation uplift when you execute. Treat the outputs as guideposts to build a plan you can sustain through different market conditions.
Method: solve for monthly payment using future value formula with net monthly rate equal to (expected return minus annual fee) divided by 12. Deposits assumed at month end.
Keep learning with guides and step-by-step courses
Numbers are more useful when paired with a plan. Move from scenarios to action using our plain-language guides and hands-on courses. Learn about asset allocation, risk, fees, and checklists you can apply to your own accounts.
Educational content only. AssetCraft does not provide personalised investment, legal, or tax advice. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Capital is at risk when investing.