The Cost of Waiting
An Interactive Story
The Cost of
Waiting
What happens when two people invest the same amount, at the same rate, but one starts 10 years later?
Meet the investors.
Same plan.
Different start dates.
Both invest $300 per month and earn an average annual return of 8%. The only difference? When they begin.
At age 65
Same commitment. Vastly different outcomes.
Here's the twist.
Jordan invested less money.
But that's not why they lost.
Even if Jordan had invested the same total amount out of pocket, compound interest would still overwhelmingly favor Alex. Time in the market isn't just a saying. It's math.
Alex put in just $36,000 more, yet walks away with hundreds of thousands more in total value. That's the power of starting early.
Your turn.
What could waiting cost you?
Adjust the numbers below to see how your start age, monthly savings, and expected return affect the outcome.
The best time to start
was yesterday.
The second best time is today. Even small, consistent contributions can grow into something remarkable if you give them enough time.
This is a hypothetical illustration only and does not represent the performance of any specific investment. Actual results will vary. Investment returns are not guaranteed. Consult a financial professional before making investment decisions.
