An investor deposits $5,000 in a savings account with an annual interest rate of 4%, compounded quarterly. How much will the investment be worth after 3 years?

Wed, 06 May 2026 16:54:40 +0000

**How does a $5,000 investment grow at 4% interest, compounded quarterly, after 3 years?**
The question an increasing number of curious investors are asking—*“What will my $5,000 savings investment grow to after 3 years with a 4% annual rate compounded quarterly?”*—is timely and relevant in today’s financially aware U.S. market. Small, steady gains from compound interest remain a trusted strategy, especially amid shifting economic conditions and interest rate environments. Understanding how compounding works in real terms helps investors make informed, confident decisions without relying on hype. At its core, this scenario involves regular depositing reinforced by quarterly compounding—effectively earning interest not just on the principal, but on earned interest as well. With a 4% annual rate compounded four times per year, or every three months, returns build consistently over time. This structure rewards patience and repetition, a principle deeply aligned with long-term savings behavior. **The Mechanics Behind the Growth**
To grasp the full impact, break down the payment: a 4% annual rate divided into quarterly chunks becomes 1% per quarter. Over three years, with 12 compounding periods, each earning interest on the current balance, your initial $5,000 becomes more than just principal—from approximately $5,000, it grows toward roughly $5,628. This realistic growth reflects how compounding accelerates returns over time. The final number matters not in isolation, but in how it illustrates the power of time and compounding in everyday investing. **Why This Investment Pattern Is Gaining Traction**
Several cultural and economic shifts fuel curiosity around this exact question. With inflation slowly eroding purchasing power, savers seek reliable, low-risk ways to preserve and enhance value. The Federal Reserve’s interest rate decisions often prompt individual reflection—especially on returns in savings accounts. Currently, while yields fluctuate, 4% on a