How is the Average Balance of a Current Account Calculated?

How is the Average Balance of a Current Account Calculated?

Many people are curious about how the average balance of a current account is calculated. This article will explore the method for determining an average balance and provide a clear example to help you understand the concept.

Understanding the Concept of Average Balance

The average balance of a current account is a value that gives insight into the typical or expected balance you hold in your account over a specific period. It is a useful measure when analyzing financial health and forecasting future balances, especially for businesses or individuals looking to manage their finances efficiently.

Calculating the Average Balance

Calculating the average balance of a current account involves a straightforward process. It requires summing up the balance every business day and then dividing this total by the number of business days in the period.

Step-by-Step Process

Identify the Business Days: Start by determining the total number of business days in the period you are assessing. Business days typically exclude weekends and public holidays. Record the Balance: Note down the balance in your current account for each business day. Sum Up: Add up all the balances recorded during these business days. Divide to Obtain the Average: Divide the total balance by the number of business days to find the average balance.

Example Calculation

Consider a scenario where someone wants to calculate their average balance for the year 2021. Let's break down the process:

Total Business Days: There are 250 business days in the year 2021 (365 days minus weekends and public holidays). Initial Balance: Suppose the account holder had £1000 on the 1st of January, and this balance remained stable until the 30th of December. Deposit: On December 30, a deposit of £9000 was made, resulting in a balance of £10000 for the last two business days. Calculation: The average balance would be calculated as follows:
Initial balance (January 1) * (248 business days)   Final balance (December 30) * (2 business days)---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Total business days£1000 * 248   £10000 * 2 / 250  £1072

So, the average balance for the year 2021 would be £1072.

Conclusion

Understanding how to calculate the average balance of a current account is crucial for financial planning and analysis. By accurately determining this average, individuals and businesses can make informed decisions about their financial management and planning.