Compounding
The term compounding refers to the process of gaining interest on interest. While usually, interest is credited to the existing principal amount, compounding makes it possible to credit interest on the interest already paid.
With this growth calculated through exponential functions, the investment generates earnings from its principal and the accumulated earnings from preceding periods. In other words, an asset’s earnings don’t only come from capital gains but the interest as well. The simplest compounding definition is to build interest on interest by magnifying returns to interest in time. In the financial world, compounding is also referred to as the “miracle of compounding”.
How does Compounding Work?
Compounding works by increasing the value of an asset through interest gained on both the principal and the accumulated interest. This direct realization of the time value of money concept (TVM) can also be referred to as compound interest.
So that this concept is treated fairly, compounding works for both assets and liabilities. We already mentioned how compounding could boost an asset’s value in a shorter period of time. Going on the same principle, compounding can also increase the amount of money owned by someone in a loan. This happens as interest can accumulate in case of unpaid principal and previous interest charges.
Example of Compounding
Let’s say $20,000 is held in a bank account with a 5% annual interest. Once the first year passes, compounding will transform the total value to $21,000 based on the 5% interest rate. After the second year, however, compounding won’t only add another $1,000 to the account. Still, it will also add an additional $50 for the interest gained on the $1,000 interest from the previous year.
Popular Real Estate Terms
The definition of restraint on alienation is a limitation on the right to convey or transfer owned real estate to another party. This restriction on conveying property has an effect that ...
Derogative term describing a high-pressure telemarketing office where sales personnel often use extremely exaggerated claims as well as intense sales practices to convince targets clients ...
Investment made rationally and intelligently as would be expected by a professional person. A reasonable degree of safety and return are expected. A example is an office building with 99% ...
Tax concept whereby income not actually received is considered to be constructively received by a taxpayer and thus must be reported. An example is a bond interest coupon. The interest is ...
Process by which a lessee rents his apartment to another. ...
The equity in property because of work in it by the buyer or holder which directly increases its value. ...
Market condition in which sellers exceed buyers, thereby causing prices to fall. In real estate, declining markets may result from unfavorable business conditions and high interest rates. ...
Enumeration of the consideration given by each party to a contract which in some cases must be in written form to be enforceable. For example, the statute of frauds requires that all ...
Assets owned by an individual as part of his or her estate except for land and everything attached to the land. Personal property may be either tangible, having physical substance such as ...

Have a question or comment?
We're here to help.