What aspect does future value emphasize in financial calculations?

Future value emphasizes the concept of future financial growth by calculating the worth of an investment or series of cash flows at a specific future date, taking into account factors such as interest rates and the time value of money. When you invest money, it has the potential to grow over time due to interest or returns, and the future value calculation helps in determining how much that investment will be worth after a certain period. This is essential for financial planning, as it allows one to assess the potential benefits and growth of their investments over time, aiding in making informed decisions for future financial goals.

The other options do not capture the essence of future value. Immediate returns focus on current outcomes rather than growth over time. Current expenses refer to expenditures incurred in the present rather than the future valuation of investments. Fixed interest rates describe a type of interest but do not inherently address the concept of growth, which is central to future value calculations.