Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) Calculator
Understanding Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR)
The Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) is a vital metric used to measure the average annual rate of return of an investment over a specified period longer than one year. It represents the smoothed-out annual growth rate, assuming that profits were reinvested at the end of each year of the investment's lifespan. CAGR is particularly useful because it helps to normalize volatility, providing a single figure that represents the growth trajectory of an investment.
Why is CAGR Important?
- Simplifies Growth Measurement: It cuts through the noise of year-to-year fluctuations, offering a clear picture of long-term performance.
- Comparison Tool: CAGR allows investors to easily compare the performance of different investments with varying growth patterns over the same time frame.
- Forecasting: While not a predictor of future results, CAGR can be used as a basis for estimating potential future values of an investment.
- Business Performance: Companies use CAGR to assess the growth of revenue, profits, or other key performance indicators over time.
How is CAGR Calculated?
The formula for CAGR is:
CAGR = ( (Ending Value / Beginning Value) ^ (1 / Number of Years) ) - 1
Where:
- Ending Value: The value of the investment at the end of the period.
- Beginning Value: The value of the investment at the start of the period.
- Number of Years: The total duration of the investment period in years.
The result is typically expressed as a percentage.
Example:
Let's say you invested $10,000 in a stock (Starting Value). After 5 years (Number of Years), your investment has grown to $25,000 (Ending Value).
- Starting Value = $10,000
- Ending Value = $25,000
- Number of Years = 5
Using the CAGR calculator above or the formula:
CAGR = ( ($25,000 / $10,000) ^ (1 / 5) ) - 1
CAGR = ( 2.5 ^ 0.2 ) - 1
CAGR = 1.2011 - 1
CAGR = 0.2011
Expressed as a percentage, the CAGR is approximately 20.11%. This means your investment grew at an average rate of 20.11% per year over the 5-year period, smoothing out any daily or monthly fluctuations.