What does the Rule of 72 help to determine?

The Rule of 72 is a simplified formula used to estimate the number of years required to double the investment at a fixed annual rate of return. By dividing 72 by the expected annual return percentage, you can quickly calculate how many years it will take for an investment to grow to twice its original value. This practical rule is particularly useful in financial planning and investing, allowing individuals to understand the potential growth of their investments over time.

While the other options touch on important aspects of finance and investment strategies, they do not encapsulate the primary function of the Rule of 72, which specifically focuses on the time aspect related to investment growth.