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Returns

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Returns are an important concept in many different fields, including finance, mathematics, and computer science. In finance, returns are used to measure the performance of investments. In mathematics, returns are used to describe the output of a function. In computer science, returns are used to control the flow of execution in a program.

What are Returns?

In finance, a return is the profit or loss that an investor makes on an investment. Returns can be expressed in absolute terms (e.g., $100) or as a percentage of the initial investment (e.g., 10%). The return on an investment can be positive or negative, depending on whether the investment gains or loses value.

Types of Returns

There are many different types of returns, including:

  • Simple returns: Simple returns are calculated by dividing the profit or loss by the initial investment. For example, if an investor invests $100 and makes a profit of $20, the simple return is 20% (20 / 100 * 100).
  • Compound returns: Compound returns are calculated by reinvesting the profit or loss back into the investment. For example, if an investor invests $100 and makes a profit of $20, the compound return is 21.2% (20 * 1.05 * 100 / 100).
  • Annualized returns: Annualized returns are calculated by converting the return over a shorter period of time into an annual rate. For example, if an investor makes a profit of $20 over a six-month period, the annualized return is 40% (20 * 2 / 100).
  • Real returns: Real returns are calculated by adjusting the return for inflation. For example, if an investor makes a profit of $20 and inflation is 2%, the real return is 17.6% (20 / 1.02 * 100).

How to Calculate Returns

The formula for calculating returns is:

return = (final value - initial value) / initial value * 100

For example, if an investor invests $100 and makes a profit of $20, the return is 20% (20 / 100 * 100).

Why are Returns Important?

Returns are important because they allow investors to compare the performance of different investments. Returns can also be used to track the progress of an investment over time. Additionally, returns can be used to calculate the risk and return of an investment.

How can I Learn More About Returns?

There are many ways to learn more about returns. One way is to take an online course on returns. There are many different online courses available, so you can find one that fits your learning needs and goals. Another way to learn more about returns is to read books and articles about the topic. There are many resources available online and in libraries.

Careers that Use Returns

There are many different careers that use returns. Some of the most common careers include:

  • Financial analysts
  • Investment managers
  • Portfolio managers
  • Risk managers
  • Traders

Online Courses

There are many online courses available that can help you learn more about returns. Some of the most popular courses include:

  • Concepts in Python: Loops, Functions and Returns
  • Retail Customer Service
  • Financial Analysis: Build a ChatGPT Pairs Trading Bot

These courses can provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to understand returns and use them to make informed investment decisions.

Conclusion

Returns are an important concept in many different fields. They can be used to measure the performance of investments, track the progress of an investment over time, and calculate the risk and return of an investment. There are many different ways to learn more about returns, including taking an online course, reading books and articles, and attending conferences and seminars.

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Reading list

We've selected 11 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Returns.
Provides a mathematically rigorous exposition of corporate finance theory and it is written by Nobel laureate Jean Tirole.
Provides a comprehensive overview to machine learning techniques for estimating and predicting returns.
Gives a more technical exposition on the topic of returns and provides many examples and case studies.
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