Investment Return Calculator
Calculate total gain, return percentage, annualized return, and after-fee investment performance.
Investment Returns: A Complete Guide
Investment return measures how much value an investment gained or lost compared with the amount originally invested. A useful return calculation includes price change, income received, and fees.
This calculator shows total return and annualized return. Total return explains the full gain or loss, while annualized return converts the result into a yearly rate so different time periods can be compared more fairly.
Initial capital
The original investment is the base for all return calculations. A larger initial amount means the same percentage return creates a larger money gain or loss.
Ending value
Ending value can be current market value or sale proceeds. When combined with income and fees, it gives a clearer picture of the investment outcome.
Income matters
Dividends, interest, rent, or distributions should be included when calculating total return. Price-only return can understate income-producing investments.
Annualized view
Annualized return smooths the result into an average yearly rate. This helps compare a short trade with a long-term holding without being misled by time period differences.