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Opportunity Cost of a Purchase
Every dollar you spend today is a dollar that can't compound. This isn't an argument against spending — it's a tool for making spending deliberate. What does that purchase actually cost in future money?
$
%
yr
$1,000 in 20 years
$3,870
- Purchase price today$1,000
- Future value if invested$3,870
- Growth (opportunity forfeited)$2,870
- Multiplier3.9×
- Rule of 72 (doubles every)10.3 yr
Assumes a one-time lump-sum investment at the nominal return rate. Does not account for inflation, taxes on gains, or ongoing portfolio fees. Use after-tax return to see real purchasing-power impact.