Published Sep 8, 2024 Definition of Principal The term “principal” carries several meanings in economics and finance. Most commonly, it refers to the original amount of money that is either invested or loaned. When you take out a loan or make an investment, the principal is the initial size of […] Learn what principal amount means in loans and investments, and how it affects your financial transactions. See a real-life example of a car loan and how to pay off the principal amount over time. Principal in Investments The term principal takes on different meanings depending on the context used in finance and investments. Here we discuss how principal applies to investments, focusing on types of returns, such as nominal yield and current yield, and the impact of inflation on investment principal. Understanding Principal in Investing Principal in an investment is the initial amount committed to a purchase or deposit made, excluding any potential earnings or interest generated. In ... Learn how to calculate the principal amount and interest on a loan with formulas and examples. Find out how to lower your interest burden and get a personal loan with Fibe at a nominal rate.