This chart shows a hypothetical calculation of after-tax investment returns. Source: Edward Jones.
This chart shows that, over time, the cost of waiting to invest could be significant. Source: Morningstar Direct, Edward Jones. Annual returns of the S&P/TSX Composite Total Return Index, 1/1/1994-12/31/2023. Past performance does not guarantee future results. These calculations do not include any commissions or transation fees that an investor may have incurred. If these fees were included, it would have a negative impact on the return.
This chart shows the effects of investing $70,000 in a tax-advantaged account at a range of potential returns. Source: Edward Jones.
This chart shows the effects of investing $70,000 in a taxable at a range of potential returns. Source: Edward Jones.

Important information:

1 This calculation can also be performed with monthly numbers by dividing annual numbers by 12.
2 $500 x 1.38 = $690.
3 30% x $690 = $207
4 15.0198% x $690 = $130.64
5 $207 – $103.64 = $103.36
6 $396.64 / $10,000 = 3.97%
7 Assumes 21% average tax rate, total capital gains below $250,000 in a given year and based on a portfolio consisting of 40% interest, 30% dividends and 30% capital gains income for a middle-income earner.