What is the differenc between nominal and effective interest rate?

The nominal interest rate is the stated interest rate on a loan or investment without taking inflation or compounding into account. In contrast, the effective interest rate reflects the true cost of borrowing or the actual return on an investment, incorporating the effects of compounding over a specific period. This means that the effective rate is typically higher than the nominal rate when compounding occurs more frequently than annually. Understanding both rates is essential for accurately assessing financial products.