Investment Returns Calculator
Compare returns from different investment options: FD, Mutual Fund, Stocks, Gold, and Real Estate.
About this calculator
This tool puts the main Indian investment options side by side. Enter one amount and one time period and it compounds the money at a representative rate for each asset: equity index, equity mutual funds, NPS equity, hybrid funds, real estate, gold, debt funds and more. For every option it shows the final value, the gain and the real value after inflation.
The real value is the useful column. A product that looks like it doubled your money may have barely beaten price rises. The rates used are broad long-run assumptions, not forecasts, so treat the output as a way to compare asset classes rather than to predict your return.
How to use it
- Enter the Investment Amount in rupees.
- Enter the Time Period in years.
- Adjust the Inflation Rate if you want something other than 6%.
- Press Compare Returns.
- Read the list from best to worst and compare the real values.
How the comparison works
Each option uses Value = Amount × (1 + rate)years and Real value = Value ÷ (1 + inflation)years. Rates are fixed assumptions per asset class. Higher assumed return comes with higher risk, which the tool does not model.
Worked example
₹1,00,000 for 10 years at 6% inflation
| Option | Value | Real value |
|---|---|---|
| Stocks (Index) @ 14% | ₹3,70,722 | ₹2,07,009 |
| Equity mutual fund @ 12% | ₹3,10,585 | ₹1,73,429 |
| Hybrid fund @ 10% | ₹2,59,374 | ₹1,44,833 |
| Gold @ 8% | ₹2,15,892 | ₹1,20,553 |
Gold at 8% has a real value of only about ₹1.2 lakh after 10 years because inflation takes most of the gain.
Tips and common mistakes
- Higher assumed returns carry higher risk and bigger drawdowns. Match the asset to your time horizon.
- Equity needs five years or more. For shorter goals prefer debt or deposits.
- The same rate every year is an assumption. Real equity returns are lumpy.
- Taxes differ by asset. Compare post-tax returns before deciding.
- Diversify. A mix of two or three asset classes usually suits better than a single best performer.
Frequently asked questions
Where do the rates come from?
They are broad long-run assumptions for each asset class in India, not forecasts or guarantees.
What is real value?
It is the future value divided by the cumulative inflation, so it shows buying power in today's money.
Which investment is best?
It depends on your goal, horizon and risk tolerance. The highest return on paper comes with the highest risk.
Does the tool include tax?
No. Subtract capital gains or income tax for a post-tax view.
Why is real estate lower than equity here?
Assumed long-run appreciation is lower than equity, and rental yield, costs and illiquidity are not included.
Can I change the rates?
Not in this tool. Use the compound interest or CAGR calculators for a specific rate.