Matt Atkinson
What is Return on Investment (ROI) and how to calculate it?

What is Return on Investment (ROI)?
Return on Investment (ROI) is a measure of how much money an investment generates relative to its cost. It is calculated by dividing the gain from the investment (net income) by the cost of the investment. It is expressed as a percentage and is usually used to compare the efficiency of different investments. ROI is a key metric used to evaluate the performance of an investment or to compare different investments.
How to Calculate Return on Investment (ROI)?
ROI is calculated by subtracting the initial amount of the investment from the final amount, then dividing the difference by the initial amount and multiplying it by 100 to get a percentage. The formula is written as: ROI = (Gain from Investment – Cost of Investment) / Cost of Investment) x 100
Why is it important to understand Return on Investment (ROI)?
Understanding ROI is important because it provides a way to measure the success of an investment. It helps you determine whether the cost of an investment is worth the return you are receiving. It also allows you to compare different investments and make informed decisions about which ones to pursue. Knowing your ROI can help you maximize your profits and minimize your losses, which can be vital for businesses that are trying to stay profitable.
Alternatives to Return on Investment (ROI)
ROI is always the most appropriate measure, so here are some alternatives that can be used to measure financial performance:
Return on Capital Employed (ROCE): This metric measures how efficiently a business is using its capital to generate profits. It is calculated by dividing the net operating profit by the total capital employed.
Return on Equity (ROE): This metric measures the profitability of a business by comparing its net income to its shareholder equity. It is calculated by dividing the net income by the shareholder equity.
Internal Rate of Return (IRR): This metric is used to measure the profitability of an investment over a period of time. It is calculated by dividing the net present value of the investment by the total amount invested.
Payback Period: This metric measures how long it takes for an investment to pay back its initial cost. It is calculated by dividing the initial cost of the investment by the expected rate of return.
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