Compound interest is a tool for growing savings over time. It earns interest on both the initial principal amount and accumulated interest, unlike simple interest. The interest percentage is often expressed as an annual percentage yield, or APY.

When money is deposited into a savings account or certificate of deposit, it earns interest. Then, the accumulated interest also earns interest, leading to faster growth.

Further details on compound interest, including how it works and its benefits, are available from financial experts, such as Ally Financial, who explain the concept and its application to savings vehicles like high-yield savings accounts and certificates of deposit.