Economic Insight

Value Erosion

Calculate the invisible tax. Track how inflation degrades purchasing power and adjust your historical prices for today's economy.

Parameters
Configure your inflation time-machine.
3.2%

Historical US average (1913-2023) is ~3.2%.

Equivalent Value in 2026

$2268.15

You need $2268.15 to maintain the same purchasing power 26 years later.

Purchasing Power Loss

55.9%

Inflation Curve

Hidden Tax

Inflation acts as a "hidden tax" on cash savers. Over this 26-year period, your $1000.00 has effectively lost 55.9% of its utility if sitting in a zero-interest account.

Economic Reality

Inflation is the steady increase in prices and fall in the purchasing value of money. Understanding its historical impact is crucial for retirement planning, salary negotiations, and long-term investment evaluation.

Real vs Nominal

Nominal value is the absolute price tag. Real value is adjusted for inflation, showing you the true change in purchasing power over time.

CPI Dynamics

The Consumer Price Index (CPI) tracks the weighted average of prices for a basket of consumer goods and services like transportation and food.

Portfolio Defense

To maintain your standard of living, your income and investments must outpace the annual inflation rate. Static cash is a melting ice cube in a high-inflation environment.

The Formula

Old Price × (New CPI / Old CPI)

Output

Adjusted Price