Scenarios explore what happens over time when different financial decisions are made consistently. Each article uses fixed assumptions and simple math to show long-term outcomes without advice, predictions, or market timing.
What This Article Answers This article shows how gradual increases in contributions affect long-term outcomes compared to a flat contribution rate. Assumptions The Outcome Gradually increasing contributions produces nearly the same outcome as contributing $500 from the start. Breakdown Strategy Total Contributed Ending Balance Flat $500 $180,000 ~$680,000 Gradual increase ~$165,000 ~$650,000 Why This Happens […]
What This Article Answers This article compares long-term outcomes of saving in cash versus investing in the market. Assumptions The Outcome Investing produces over 3× more money than saving cash. Breakdown Strategy Total Contributed Ending Balance Cash savings $180,000 ~$240,000 Market investing $180,000 ~$680,000 Why This Happens Low returns fail to outpace inflation meaningfully. Compounding
What This Article Answers This article shows how a 10-year delay affects long-term outcomes, even when contribution amounts stay the same. It explains the cost of time using simple math rather than motivation or advice. Assumptions The Outcome Starting at 25 instead of 35 results in over $600,000 more at retirement, despite only contributing $60,000
What This Article Answers This article explains what happens if you invest $500 per month for 30 years. It looks at total contributions, long-term growth, and how compounding affects the final outcome. Assumptions The Outcome Over 30 years, investing $500 per month results in a substantial portfolio value, even though the total amount contributed is
