When to use this calculator
Measure total simple return including cash received during the holding period. Not annualised and excludes fees unless already reflected in values or distributions.
Explore the investment return calculators for other questions in this topic. For a related calculation, use the Inflation Linked Payment Calculator: Estimate a future payment that increases at a chosen fixed annual rate.
PUTTING IT INTO PRACTICE
Holding Period Return: a worked example
The values below are an illustrative example, not a recommendation. Replace them with measurements or assumptions that match your question.
| Input | Example value |
|---|---|
| Initial value | 1,000 |
| Ending value | 1,100 |
| Cash distributions | 50 |
| Result | 15 % |
- Check the input labels and enter the example values above.
- Apply the relationship: Return (%) = (ending + distributions − initial)/initial × 100.
- The result is 15 %, rounded for display.
How to interpret your result
Not annualised and excludes fees unless already reflected in values or distributions.
Return measures must cover the same time period before comparison. CAGR annualises two endpoint values but does not model interim cash flows. Current income yield differs from total return or yield to maturity.
Frequently asked questions
Can CAGR handle money added during the period?
The simple endpoint CAGR model does not account for intermediate deposits and withdrawals. Those require cash-flow-aware methods.
When is the holding period return calculator useful?
Measure total simple return including cash received during the holding period. Not annualised and excludes fees unless already reflected in values or distributions.
How do I use the holding period return calculator?
Enter initial value, ending value, cash distributions. The result updates automatically. Use the units shown beside each input; the example values illustrate the method.
Which formula does this calculator use?
Return (%) = (ending + distributions − initial)/initial × 100.
What should I check before using the result?
Not annualised and excludes fees unless already reflected in values or distributions.
How are results rounded?
Scalar numbers display up to six decimal places, with scientific notation for very large or small values. Text, fraction, date and schedule outputs use the format described on the tool. Intermediate calculations use JavaScript floating-point arithmetic. Keep sensible precision for your measurements.
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