Future Value Matrix Calculator

First, you may ask, "what is a 'matrix calculator'"? A matrix is a rectangular shape created by the intersection of a series of rows and columns. A "matrix calculator" calculates the results that populate the intersection of each row and column. If you look at the screen shot, what we mean will become clear to you.

By virtue of the matrix then, a matrix calculator calculates many results for a various range of inputs. Two inputs may change for any desired calculation. All of our matrix calculators will also give you the choice of what will be calculated.

The advantage a matrix calculator offers, of course, is the time savings in performing "what-if" calculations. Rather than use a single result calculator and keep changing the interest rate, for example, to find the various resulting future values, use the matrix calculator and have many future values calculated and visible at the same time with one click of the "Calc" button.

Specifically, with this future value matrix calculator, the user may select having either various future value amounts calculated for a specific regular deposit amount or have the various deposit amounts calculated that will produce a specfic future value amount. If the deposit amount is to be calculated, the user will enter the desired future value, an initial assumed term and interest rate and their respective "step" values. The calculator will increase the interest rate along the top of the matrix and increase the term down the matrix and calculate the different deposit amounts required to reach the desired future value as the content of the matrix.

Below are more details about this future value matrix...

Future value (FV) calculation: A user wants to deposit a fixed amount periodically. What will be the future value for a minimum of 48 periods assuming a minimum rate of return of 3.25%? The matrix calculator lets the user set the Initial Annual Rate (expected rate of return) and the Initial Total Periods. Result: $38,389.37. The calculator continues with other scenarios. For example, the user learns that if the rate of return is 6.25% and he or she wants to make 144 monthly deposits, then the FV is $160,255.23

Deposit Amount calculation: A user wants to reach a specific future value (goal) after some number of periodic investments (deposits). What deposit amount is required for a minimum of 240 periods assuming a minimum rate of return of 5.0%? The matrix calculator lets the user set the Initial Annual Rate (expected rate of return) and the Initial Total Periods. Result: $2,422.80. The calculator continues with other scenarios. For example, the user learns that if the rate of return is 7.0% and he or she makes 300 monthly deposits, then the deposit amount required drops to $1,227.30.

Note: A matrix can be completely customized and printed on one sheet of paper. It can then be carried with you and used as a handy reference tool.