Reproducible calculations

Methodology: ETF Investing

Our primary interactive tool is ETF fee comparison. Project two hypothetical annual fee schedules on an equal pre-fee return; actual ETF returns and costs can differ.

Inputs in this model

Starting amount ($): Values entered by the user; not fetched from financial markets.
Fund A expense ratio (%/year): Values entered by the user; not fetched from financial markets.
Fund B expense ratio (%/year): Values entered by the user; not fetched from financial markets.
Assumed gross return (%/year): Values entered by the user; not fetched from financial markets.
Holding period (years): Whole years in this simplified annual model.

Data quality and limitations

Calculated values reflect the input assumptions, arithmetic and simplified model described next to results. A change to an input changes the projection, not a real market observation.

ETF holdings, fund costs and distributions change. Confirm current prospectus and issuer data before making decisions.

Security directories use a dated Nasdaq listing snapshot and are not live. Where separately labeled official SEC panels are displayed, companyfacts and filing links are matched to SEC CIK identifiers and carry their own reporting dates. No real-time quote feed is integrated.

Return to the calculator to run an alternative scenario.