Explainers on real estate, public markets and venture finance, each paired with the calculator that puts it into practice.
Real estate/Start here
Cap rate is one of the most commonly used metrics in real estate investing. Learn exactly what it means, how to calculate it, and how to use it when analyzing deals.
8 min read
Investing
The price-to-earnings ratio is the most quoted number in investing, and the most misused. Learn what P/E really tells you, when it lies, and how to use it properly.
9 min read
Investing
DCA is the default advice for long-term investors. Here is the arithmetic behind it, when it beats lump-sum investing, and when it does not.
8 min read
Investing
WACC is the number every DCF hinges on, and most explanations make it harder than it is. Learn what the weighted average cost of capital means and how to calculate it.
8 min read
Real estate
Cash-on-cash return measures your actual return on invested capital. Learn how to calculate it and why it matters more than cap rate for leveraged deals.
9 min read
Real estate
Two metrics dominate rental property analysis. Understanding when to use each will make you a better investor.
10 min read
Real estate
ROI is the ultimate scorecard for rental property investing. Learn the different ways to calculate it and which method is right for your analysis.
11 min read
Investing
Compound interest is the single most important concept for building long-term wealth. Learn how it works and how to put it to work for you.
9 min read
Venture
The difference between pre-money and post-money valuation can change your ownership by 20%. Learn how to calculate both and avoid common mistakes.
10 min read
Venture
Startup valuation can feel like black magic. Learn the framework investors use to work backward from expected returns to today's valuation.
12 min read
Real estate
Ever wonder why most of your early mortgage payments go to interest? Learn how amortization works and how to build equity faster.
9 min read
Investing
CAGR smooths out the bumps to show your true investment growth rate. Learn how to calculate it and why it matters.
8 min read
Venture
Each funding round dilutes your ownership stake. Learn to calculate dilution, protect your equity, and understand what really matters for founder wealth.
11 min read
Real estate
Extra mortgage payments can save you tens of thousands in interest. But is it always the right move? Learn when to pay down your mortgage faster and when to invest instead.
10 min read
Real estate
Cap rate benchmarks vary wildly by property type, location, and risk level. Learn what ranges to expect and how to interpret cap rates in today's market.
9 min read
Real estate
NOI is the most important number in commercial real estate. Learn how to calculate it correctly and avoid common mistakes.
8 min read
Real estate
Should you rent or buy in today's market? Learn the real math behind the decision, beyond the "throwing money away" myth.
12 min read
Investing
The Rule of 72 lets you calculate how long it takes to double your money in seconds. Learn this essential mental math shortcut.
6 min read
Venture
Running out of money is the most common way startups fail. Learn how to calculate runway, optimize burn rate, and know when to raise.
10 min read
Investing
ROI measures the profitability of any investment. Learn the formula, see examples, and understand the limitations of this fundamental metric.
7 min read
Real estate
The 1% rule is the fastest way to screen rental properties. Learn how to use it effectively, when to dig deeper, and why it works as a quick filter for cash flow.
10 min read
Investing
The 4% rule has been the cornerstone of retirement planning for 30 years. Learn what it is, how it works, and whether it still applies in today's market conditions.
12 min read
Real estate
Learn how to calculate what you can actually afford, not only what a lender will approve. Includes income ratios, hidden costs, and practical guidelines.
11 min read
Real estate
DSCR measures a property's ability to cover its debt payments. Learn how lenders use it, what ratios they require, and how to improve your DSCR to qualify for better loans.
10 min read
Real estate
IRR is the gold standard for evaluating real estate investments. Learn what it is, how to calculate it, and why timing matters more than you think.
11 min read
Real estate
LTV (Loan-to-Value) ratio determines how much you can borrow, your interest rate, and whether you'll pay PMI. Learn how lenders use LTV and how to optimize yours.
9 min read
Real estate
Rental yield is one of the first metrics investors use to screen properties. Learn the difference between gross and net yield, and why confusing them can be expensive.
9 min read
Venture
SAFEs have become the default instrument for early-stage fundraising. Learn how they work, key terms like valuation caps and discounts, and how they affect founder dilution.
11 min read
Investing
Simple interest stays flat; compound interest grows exponentially. Understanding the difference helps you choose better savings accounts, evaluate loans, and harness the power of compounding.
10 min read
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