How to use this calculator
- Enter initial investment, chosen annual return (%), alternative annual return (%), years.
- Choose a display currency, then select Calculate. Results also update after a brief pause while you edit.
- Read the result with the assumptions below. Export details or save a second scenario to compare your choices.
Formula and method
Opportunity difference=initial×[(1+alternative)^years−(1+chosen)^years].
Assumptions and limitations
Returns are assumptions and may carry different risks, liquidity and taxes; this does not identify a best investment.
Worked example
With initial investment = 10000, chosen annual return (%) = 5, alternative annual return (%) = 7, years = 2, chosen ending value is approximately 11025.
What the result means
Compare two deterministic growth paths before making a trade-off.
Common questions
How should I interpret chosen ending value?
Compare two deterministic growth paths before making a trade-off.
What should I check before using this result?
Returns are assumptions and may carry different risks, liquidity and taxes; this does not identify a best investment.
Methodology and transparency
Calculation specification reviewed on 2026-10-14. Mathematical implementation is tested against independent reference fixtures. This does not imply review by a licensed financial professional. Read the testing and precision policy.