\( \$ 38,500 \) at \( 2 \% \) for 4 years
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To understand the total amount accrued with an investment of \( \$ 38,500 \) at an interest rate of \( 2\% \) over 4 years, we can use the formula for compound interest, which is \( A = P(1 + r/n)^{nt} \). Here, \( P \) is the principal amount, \( r \) the annual rate, \( n \) the number of times interest is compounded per year, and \( t \) the number of years. For simplicity, if compounded annually \( (n = 1) \), the total amount would be about \( \$ 38,500(1 + 0.02)^4 \), resulting in approximately \( \$ 42,000 \). Now, who doesn't want their money to grow a little bit? Now, many people make the common mistake of forgetting to consider how often interest is compounded when calculating their future returns. If you assume it’s compounded monthly instead of annually, you could end up with a higher amount. It’s important to clarify whether the interest is simple or compound, and if compound, how frequently it is calculated. Always check that detail to avoid underestimating how much your savings can actually grow!