What Is Return on Investment (ROI)?
- Definition: ROI is a metric used to evaluate the profitability of an investment. It measures the return relative to the cost of the investment.
- Formula: The basic formula for ROI is: ROI = (Net Profit / Cost of Investment) * 100
- Example: If you invest $1,000 in a stock and sell it for $1,200, your ROI is 20% because you made $200 on your $1,000 investment.
Other Important Return Metrics
- Annualized Return: This metric shows the average return per year over a period, accounting for compounding. It is useful for comparing investments with different time frames.
- Total Return: Total return includes not just capital appreciation but also dividends or interest earned from the investment.
- Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR): CAGR measures the mean annual growth rate of an investment over a specified period longer than one year.
How to Estimate Future Returns
- Historical Data: Reviewing historical performance of similar investments can give you an estimate of future returns. Keep in mind that past performance is not always indicative of future results.
- Risk-Adjusted Returns: Consider not only the returns but also the risks involved. Investments with higher potential returns generally come with higher risks.
- Using Tools and Calculators: Online investment calculators can help you estimate the potential return based on your input parameters like initial investment, time horizon, and expected return rate.
*Disclaimer: The content in this post is for informational purposes only. The views expressed are those of the author and may not reflect those of any affiliated organizations. No guarantees are made regarding the accuracy or reliability of the information. Use at your own risk.