Investment Return Calculator: CAGR and Total Gain
Did your investment do well? Enter what you put in, what it is worth now and how many years you held it. The calculator gives the total return and the compound annual growth rate (CAGR), which lets you compare investments held for different lengths of time.
Estimates for general information. This is not financial advice.
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From related categoriesHow to use this calculator
- Enter the amount you invested at the start.
- Enter its current or final value.
- Enter how many years you held it.
- Read the CAGR, total return and gain or loss.
The formula
Worked example
₹1,00,000 growing to ₹2,00,000 in 5 years is a total return of 100%, a growth multiple of 2x and a CAGR of about 14.87% a year.
Understanding your result
CAGR is the steady yearly rate that would produce the same result. It smooths out ups and downs, so it does not show how risky the path was. It also assumes one lump sum. For monthly investments, XIRR is a better measure.
When to use it
- Compare a stock, fund, property or gold over different holding periods.
- Check whether an investment beat inflation or an FD.
- Judge past performance. It does not predict future returns.
Assumptions and limits
Assumes a single investment and no withdrawals or additions during the period. Taxes, fees and inflation are not included. A negative CAGR means the value fell.
Frequently asked questions
What is CAGR?
The constant yearly growth rate that takes the starting value to the ending value over the period.
Is CAGR the same as average return?
No. CAGR accounts for compounding, so it is usually lower than a simple average of yearly returns.
Can I use it for a SIP?
Not accurately, because SIP money goes in at different times. XIRR is more suitable.
Can the result be negative?
Yes, if the final value is lower than the amount invested.
Does it include inflation?
No. Compare the CAGR with inflation to estimate your real return.