Investment Return Calculator
Calculate investment profit, total return, and annualized return over time.
Investment details
This calculator auto-updates when values change.
This calculator is for general information only and is not financial advice.
Results
Results update automatically.
Net profit / loss
£4,900.00
Value comparison
About This Investment Return Calculator
This investment return calculator helps you measure how much an investment has gained or lost over time.
Enter the initial investment, final value, investment length, and fees. The calculator shows net profit or loss, total return percentage, and annualized return.
Annualized return is useful because it smooths the investment result into an average yearly rate, making different investments easier to compare.
Investment Return Example
If you invest GBP 10,000 and it grows to GBP 13,500 after four years, the total profit is GBP 3,500 and the total return is 35% before tax and any extra fees.
The annualized return is lower than 35% because the gain happened over multiple years. Annualized return converts the result into a yearly rate, making it easier to compare with other investments.
Why Annualized Return Matters
A 20% return over one year is very different from a 20% return over six years. Annualized return accounts for time so you can compare investments more fairly.
Use annualized return alongside risk, volatility, fees, taxes, and inflation. The highest return is not always the best investment if it required excessive risk or poor liquidity.
How to Improve Return Analysis
Include fees, platform charges, dealing costs, and currency conversion where relevant. For a more complete view, compare nominal return with inflation-adjusted return.
Review returns over several periods rather than relying on one start and end date. A single unusually strong or weak period can distort the picture.
How to Use This Calculator
- 1
Enter your starting value
Add the original amount invested.
- 2
Enter the final value
Add what the investment is worth now or at sale.
- 3
Add the time period and fees
Enter the number of years and any costs or charges.
- 4
Review your return
Check net profit, total return percentage, and annualized return.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is investment return?v
Investment return measures how much money an investment gained or lost compared with the original amount invested.
What is annualized return?v
Annualized return converts the total investment result into an average yearly return rate.
Does this include taxes?v
No. This calculator does not include capital gains tax, income tax, or account-specific tax treatment.
Can this show a loss?v
Yes. If the final value is lower than the initial investment after costs, the result shows a negative return.