Accumulation function

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The accumulation function a(t) is a function defined in terms of time t expressing the ratio of the value at time t (future value) and the initial investment (present value). It is used in interest theory.

Thus a(0)=1 and the value at time t is given by:

A(t) = k \cdot a(t).

where the initial investment is k.


In the case of a positive rate of return, as in the case of interest, the accumulation function is an increasing function.

Variable rate of return[edit]

The logarithmic or continuously compounded return, sometimes called force of interest, is a function of time defined as follows:


which is the rate of change with time of the natural logarithm of the accumulation function.


a(t)=e^{\int_0^t \delta_u\, du}

reducing to

a(t)=e^{t \delta}

for constant \delta.

The effective annual percentage rate at any time is:

  r(t) = e^{\delta_t} - 1

See also[edit]