Is it better to invest 1 at 4% or 4 at 1%? This visual compares compound growth paths for different combinations of initial investment and return rates over 50 years. All curves follow the same compound-interest logic, yet scale and growth rates interact in non-intuitive ways. A higher starting capital shifts the trajectory upward immediately, while a higher return rate progressively steepens it. Over long horizons, return differentials dominate: an investment of 1 growing at 4% eventually overtakes an investment of 4 growing at 1%. At shorter horizons, the opposite holds. Time determines when growth rate outweighs initial size. Data & MethodTheoretical compound-interest growth over 50 years. Annual return rates: 1%, 2%, and 4%. Initial investments: 1, 2, and 4. Annual compounding, no withdrawals or additional contributions. Product Specifications Format: A5 (148 × 210 mm)Orientation: PortraitPaper: 350 g/m² uncoated paperPrinting: High-resolution digital printFinish: MatteFrame: Not includedPackaging: Flat protective sleeveProduction: Printed in France (Paris)
