Projected Future Value
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Nominal value at end of period
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Time beats timing
Consistent contributions over many years usually outperform trying to pick the perfect entry point.
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Always check real returns
Subtract inflation from your expected return to see true growth in purchasing power.
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Raise contributions over time
Increasing monthly amounts as income grows can materially improve the final outcome.
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Use conservative rates
Long-term equity returns historically average in the high single to low double digits — avoid optimistic assumptions.