Final answer:
More compounding periods per year result in a higher interest rate.
Step-by-step explanation:
When it comes to compounding interest, more compounding periods per year result in a higher interest rate. This is because compounding more frequently allows the interest to accumulate at a faster rate.
For example, let's say you have $1,000 invested at a 5% interest rate. If interest is compounded annually, you would earn $50 in interest at the end of the year. However, if interest is compounded quarterly (4 times per year), you would earn $51.62 in interest at the end of the year. The more frequent compounding increases the total amount of interest earned.
Therefore, the correct answer is 1) Higher interest rate.