📊 StockCalc
Returns & Cost Basis

Measure what you earned and what you paid.

Move from single-trade profit math to portfolio-level return analysis with calculators built for cost basis and performance tracking.

Why this topic path exists

Return math sounds simple until you add partial sells, multiple buys, dividends, and different holding periods. Cost basis and annualized return are separate questions that deserve separate tools.

This hub links the calculators investors reach for after a trade: profit on a round trip, average purchase price across lots, dollar-cost averaging schedules, and total or annualized performance.

Each page shows its formula openly. Use them to reconcile brokerage statements, compare strategies, or teach how percentage return differs from absolute dollar gain.

Suggested workflow

  1. Calculate profit on a completed trade with fees in mind.
  2. Update average cost when you add shares at different prices.
  3. Measure total and annualized return for a holding period.
  4. Model DCA contributions over time.
  5. Compare CAGR-style growth with absolute dollar outcomes.

Best starting point

Start with the Stock Return Calculator

Total and annualized return answers the most common post-trade question: how well did this position perform?

Open calculator →

Calculator path

Run these tools in order or jump to the step that matches your question.

Stock Return Calculator

Total and annualized return

Stock Profit Calculator

Net trading profit

Stock Average Calculator

Average cost basis

DCA Calculator

Dollar-cost averaging

ROI Calculator

Return on investment

Compound Interest Calculator

Growth over time

Learn the concepts

How to Calculate Stock Returns

CAGR vs Absolute Return

Compound Interest Explained

Dollar-Cost Averaging Guide

Key glossary terms

Return on Investment

CAGR

Dollar-Cost Averaging

Compound Interest

Example stock metrics

Illustrative metric pages for widely followed names. Data may be delayed; verify independently.

AAPL Market Cap Context

MSFT Market Cap Context

FAQ

What is the difference between profit and return?

Profit is usually absolute dollars gained or lost. Return expresses that outcome relative to what you invested, often as a percentage or annualized rate.

When should I recalculate average cost?

After every buy that changes your lot structure. Sells may also affect how you track remaining basis depending on your accounting method.

Does DCA guarantee better results?

No. DCA spreads purchases over time, which can reduce timing risk, but it does not ensure higher returns in every market environment.

Educational Disclaimer

These tools and articles are for educational and informational purposes only. They do not provide investment, financial, tax, or legal advice. Always verify data independently before making financial decisions.