Absolute Return Calculator
Get the simple percentage gain or loss on an investment, regardless of how long it was held.
About the Absolute Return Calculator
Enter what you invested and what it's worth now. Absolute (point-to-point) return is the total change in value as a percentage, with no adjustment for time.
Indian mutual fund factsheets show absolute returns for periods under a year and CAGR for longer periods, because a total return over several years can't be compared with a yearly rate.
The formula
Absolute return = (current value − invested) ÷ invested × 100
Worked example
Invested 50,000; now worth 68,000
- Gain: 68,000 − 50,000 = 18,000
- Absolute return = 18,000 ÷ 50,000 = 36%
- If that took 2.5 years, the yearly rate (CAGR) is about 13.09%
Things to keep in mind
- Ignores time, so it can't be compared with yearly rates such as an FD or savings rate.
- Assumes a single investment. With SIPs or top-ups use the XIRR Calculator.
Questions people ask
When should I use it?
For holding periods under a year, or a quick total.
How do I compare with an FD?
Convert to an annualised figure (CAGR or XIRR) first.
Absolute return or ROI?
They are the same calculation; ROI is the name used more for business spending.