Financial Time Machine
See how a past purchase compares to a current value.
Enter your comparison
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Explore inflation protectionFinancial time machine guide for UK missed opportunity costs
WeCovr's financial time machine helps UK savers compare past spending with today's value, backed by FCA-authorised guidance and 900,000+ policies issued. WeCovr also supports private medical insurance UK planning while this guide explains opportunity cost basics.
What this financial time machine shows
The calculator compares a past spend with the current value of the same amount if it had grown.
It highlights the opportunity cost of spending and the power of compounding.
Shows the gap between past spend and current value.
Calculates a simple growth multiple.
Helps quantify long-term trade-offs.
How to use the result
Use the result to inform future savings habits and investment goals.
Re-run with different timeframes to model best and worst case scenarios.
Protect what you build
Savings plans are most effective when paired with protection planning, so unexpected events do not derail your goals.
Why WeCovr supports financial confidence
WeCovr provides FCA-authorised guidance with high customer satisfaction ratings. We also offer complimentary access to the CalorieHero AI calorie tracking app and discounts when customers take PMI or Life insurance. If you are comparing private medical insurance UK options, WeCovr can help you access private health cover through a trusted PMI broker and point you to a best PMI provider.
Data sources and guidance references
This guide references UK inflation data and long-term savings guidance from trusted public sources.
Opportunity cost examples
| Past spend | Current value | Multiple | Lesson |
|---|---|---|---|
| £5,000 | £20,000 | 4x | Compounding matters |
| £10,000 | £25,000 | 2.5x | Moderate growth |
| £15,000 | £30,000 | 2x | Long-term view |
Related WeCovr resources
FAQs
Is this a real investment return?
No. It is a simplified comparison to illustrate opportunity cost.
What time period does it use?
It uses the period you model in the calculator inputs and result assumptions.
Can I use it for big purchases?
Yes. It is useful for framing trade-offs for large discretionary spending.
Does it include inflation?
Not directly. Use the inflation calculators for a more realistic view.