How We Calculate Earnings
Curious about how we arrive at those eye-popping, real-time numbers? Here's a peek behind the curtain at our methodology.
1. Gathering the Data
It all starts with gathering reliable information. We primarily look for publicly reported annual earnings figures. Our go-to sources include:
- Reputable financial publications (like Forbes, Bloomberg)
- Official company filings (for executives)
- Industry reports and reputable news articles detailing contracts or salaries
- Cross-referencing data from multiple reliable sources whenever possible
We focus on the most recent reported annual earnings available.
2. The Calculation
Once we have a solid annual earnings figure, the math is pretty straightforward:
- Earnings Per Year: The reported annual figure.
- Earnings Per Day: Annual Earnings / 365
- Earnings Per Hour: Earnings Per Day / 24
- Earnings Per Minute: Earnings Per Hour / 60
- Earnings Per Second: Earnings Per Minute / 60
We use these per-second figures to power the real-time counters you see on the site.
3. Real-Time Counter & Updates
The counter you see dynamically increments based on the calculated per-second earnings rate. It's a visualization running in your browser.
Important Note: The underlying annual earnings data is updated periodically as new, reliable reports become available, not continuously. The counter shows the flow based on the latest known annual rate. Think of it like a speedometer – it shows your current speed based on the last time you pushed the pedal, even if the road ahead changes.
Accuracy & Limitations
We do our best to use the most accurate, publicly available data. However, keep in mind:
- Estimates: These are, fundamentally, estimates. True real-time earnings can be complex and influenced by factors not in the public domain (investments, bonuses, expenses, etc.).
- Data Lag: There's often a delay between when someone earns money and when it's publicly reported.
- Source Variability: Sometimes different sources report slightly different figures. We aim for the most consistent and widely cited numbers.
Our goal isn't perfect financial accounting but rather to provide a fascinating and engaging visualization based on the best available public information.
Want to see it in action or learn more about us?