So basically
in less than 50 years, a computer worth $1000 dollars will be able to do more than me, I should just put £600 in the bank, and bum around for 50 years. then i'd be able to afford the computer, and have change. i wouldn't have to worry about anything then. also, how can we reeeeeeallly trust any of the predictions when we've heard other doozies such as "
in 10 years computers will be twice as powerful and so expensive that only the 6 richest kings in Europe will own one."
(, Tue 6 Nov 2007, 18:52, Reply)
in fairness
that was back in the 50's when they'd only just been conceived.
We know a lot about them now, and those predictions are based on known technologies that 'we' are developing, such as quantum computers. If anything, it's more likely to increase faster than we expect when unforeseen technologies arise. (which is exactly what your point proves)
(
HoratioFellatio Taking the the out of psychotherapist, Tue 6 Nov 2007, 19:06,
Reply)
fair enough
But, do you think i'd still get change from my £600?
i'm seriously considering that part.
(, Tue 6 Nov 2007, 19:10, Reply)
If you invest wisely
you could reasonably expect to make 12% a year, so compounded over 50 years would leave you with £173,401.
However in real terms, if you take inflation to be 3.5% a year on average, you'd only be getting a net percentage of 8.5%, which would leave you with £35,451 in real terms (i.e. buying power).
However - if you invested your £600 in a SIPP, the government would pay back the income tax that you already paid on it, so you'd essentially be investing nearer £750, so at year 50, you'd have £44,314 worth of buying power.
So yes - you'd have a lot of change.
Marvel at the wonders of compound interest - and start a pension if you haven't already. The earlier you start the quicker it snowballs.
/not an independent financial advisor, but had it all explained to me recently blog
(
HoratioFellatio Taking the the out of psychotherapist, Tue 6 Nov 2007, 19:54,
Reply)
12% a year is bloody optomistic unless you are prepared to take some fairly hefty risks...
If you are looking at a mixed bag of UK/European/USA shares, with a wee bit of something more speculative like Japan or Emerging Markets, a reasonable expectation would be 8-9% after investment costs.
I am an independent financial adviser - so gaz me if you need anything
/desperate tout for business - c'mon, its a bit slow atm.
(, Wed 7 Nov 2007, 17:21, Reply)