The nominal interest rate is best described as which type of rate?

The nominal interest rate is best described as the stated rate, which refers to the interest rate that is expressed as a percentage without taking into account any adjustments for inflation or compounding effects. It represents the basic rate of interest that is written in financial agreements, such as loans or investments, and does not reflect the real growth in purchasing power that an investor or borrower will experience.

Understanding the nominal interest rate is essential because it serves as the baseline for comparing other types of interest rates, such as the real rate, which accounts for inflation, and the effective rate, which reflects the impact of compounding over time. Thus, calling the nominal rate the stated rate accurately captures its role as the initially provided interest figure in financial contexts.