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Saving & borrowing2 min read

Effective interest rateGerman: Effektivzins

An effective annual borrowing rate expresses yearly credit costs including certain charges that determine the price.

In plain language

Unlike a simple nominal borrowing rate, it includes additional contractual costs under applicable calculation rules. Compare loans with the same amount and term. Not every possible optional service is necessarily included.

HERE’S HOW IT WORKS

Let’s make it concrete

Two loans have the same nominal rate. If one includes additional mandatory charges, its effective annual rate may be higher.

Simplified example for illustration.

Worth understanding

A low monthly payment does not automatically make a loan cheap. A longer term can increase total payments.

Read more from official sources

For further learning and reference:

Financial education for orientation. No individual investment, tax or legal advice.

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