Investment Return Calculator
Calculate your investment return, CAGR, and real return. Compare lump sum vs regular contributions, and model multiple SA asset classes with tax-adjusted projections.
ROI vs CAGR Explained
ROI (Return on Investment): Total profit as a percentage of total invested. Simple but doesn't account for time.
CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate): The annualised return assuming steady compounding. Best for comparing investments over different time periods.
Real Return: CAGR minus inflation — shows actual purchasing power gained.
The Extended Calculator below lets you model lump sum vs regular contributions and compare SA asset classes. The Professional Calculator adds tax-adjusted CAGR, dividend reinvestment, and year-by-year tables.
SA Investment Return Benchmarks (2025)
| Asset Class | Typical Return (p.a.) | Real Return (after 5.5% CPI) |
|---|---|---|
| SA Cash / Money Market | 9-10.5% | 3.5-4.7% |
| SA Bonds | 10-12% | 4.3-6.2% |
| SA Listed Property | 8-12% | 2.4-6.2% |
| SA Equities (JSE All Share) | 10-14% | 4.3-8% |
| Global Equities | 10-15% | 4.3-9% |
| Fixed Deposit (12 mo) | 9-10.5% | 3.3-4.7% |
Historical averages. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Year-by-Year Growth Table
| Year | Value | Contributed | Gain | Real Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | R 148 168 | R 136 000 | R 12 168 | R 140 444 |
| Year 3 | R 260 164 | R 208 000 | R 52 164 | R 221 559 |
| Year 5 | R 396 842 | R 280 000 | R 116 842 | R 303 638 |
| Year 10 | R 885 239 | R 460 000 | R 425 239 | R 518 246 |
| Year 15 | R 1 688 803 | R 640 000 | R 1 048 803 | R 756 471 |