Glossary

Simple interest

Simple interest is charged only on the original principal, never on accumulated interest, so it grows in a straight line rather than accelerating.

2 min read

On principal onlyNot on interest
Straight lineNo compounding

Definition

Simple interest is calculated as principal × rate × time, on the original sum alone. Borrow £10,000 at 8% simple for three years and you pay £800 a year, £2,400 in total — no interest on interest. It contrasts with compound interest, which charges interest on the growing balance.

In plain terms

It is the gentler of the two: the interest never breeds more interest, so the cost stays predictable and linear.

Why it matters for your company

Simple interest is cheaper than compound at the same rate — know which applies to your facility. See compound interest and compare with the compound interest calculator.

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