Our compound annual growth rate (CAGR) calculator helps you measure an investment’s annual growth rate over a specified period.
Page written by Ian Hawkins. Last reviewed on May 14, 2025. Next review due April 6, 2027.
This calculator is intended for illustration purposes only and exact payment terms should be agreed with a lender before taking out a loan.
CAGR, or Compound Annual Growth Rate, is a measure used to calculate the annual growth rate of an investment over a specified period, assuming the investment has grown at a steady rate each year. It provides a smoothed annual growth rate, taking into account the effect of compounding.
To calculate the compound annual growth rate (CAGR), follow these steps:
Find the beginning and ending values: Determine the initial value of your investment or asset (beginning value) and its final value (ending value) after a specific period.
Calculate the total return: Subtract the beginning value from the ending value to find the total return or total growth of the investment.
Total Return = Ending Value – Beginning Value
Determine the number of periods: Identify the number of periods (usually years) over which the investment grew. For example, if you’re analyzing a 5-year investment, there are 5 periods.
Calculate the CAGR: Use the formula:
CAGR = (Ending Value / Beginning Value)^(1 / Number of Periods) – 1
Where:
Convert to percentage: Multiply the result by 100 to express the CAGR as a percentage.
The concept of a “good” CAGR can vary depending on factors such as investment goals, risk tolerance and market conditions. Generally, a higher CAGR indicates stronger growth and better investment performance.
To forecast future performance using CAGR, first, calculate the CAGR using historical values. Then, apply this growth rate to project future values over the desired period. It’s important to note that CAGR assumes constant growth, which may not always be the case.
We work with world class partners to help us support businesses with finance
Swoop Finance Limited helps UK firms access business finance by working directly with businesses and their trusted advisors. We act as a credit broker, not a lender, and do not provide loans or finance products ourselves. We introduce applicants to a panel of lenders, equity funds, and grant agencies based on individual circumstances and creditworthiness.
Commission Disclosure: We typically receive a commission from the finance provider (either a fixed fee or a fixed percentage of the amount you receive) upon successful placement. Different providers pay different rates. For certain lenders, we may have influence over the interest rate, which can impact the total amount payable under your agreement.
Regulatory Information:
FCA: Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority as a credit broker (FRN: 936513) and registered as an Account Information Services Provider (Ref: 833145).
ICO: Registered with the Information Commissioner’s Office (Ref: ZA600162); registration can be verified at ico.org.uk.
Company Details: Registered in England & Wales with Companies House (No. 11163382). Registered Address: The Stable Yard, Vicarage Road, Stony Stratford, Milton Keynes, MK11 1BN. VAT Number: 300080279.
Terms: All finance and quotes are subject to status, income, and terms and conditions. Applicants must be aged 18 or over. Guarantees and indemnities may be required. Please refer to our terms and conditions and our complaints procedure for further details.
UK
IRE
AU
CA
US
ZA
NA
yet? Register here!