What factor will maximize the interest earned on a savings or investment account?

Maximizing the interest earned on a savings or investment account is primarily achieved through two crucial factors: the interest rate and the duration of the investment. A high interest rate indicates that the account will yield more earnings on the money deposited. When this high rate is combined with a longer time period, the benefits are compounded even further.

The principle of compound interest means that not only is the initial amount earning interest, but the interest that accrues over time will also earn interest in subsequent periods. Therefore, the longer the money remains invested or saved, the more pronounced the effects of compounding will be.

In contrast, shorter periods, lower interest rates, or the influence of inflation diminish the benefits of savings and investing. A longer investment duration at a high rate ensures substantial growth, leveraging the power of compounding to achieve maximum interest.