Money Lab

Sequence of Returns Simulator

See why the timing of strong and weak returns can matter even when long-run average returns look similar.

Scenario comparison

Three possible outcomes

Live model

Smooth base return

6.0% each year

$1,603,568

Weak returns early

Same 20-year return set; -19.0% year first

$1,549,045

Weak returns later

Same 20-year return set; -19.0% year last

$1,549,045

Use this lab to compare assumptions, not to predict guaranteed outcomes.

Assumptions

Only assumptions that affect this scenario are shown.

Starting amount

$500,000

$0$500,000$2,000,000

Base annual rate

0%6%20%

Time horizon

20 years

1 years20 years40 years

Monthly contribution

$0$0$20,000