ROI Calculator
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a good ROI percentage?
A good ROI depends on investment type and risk level. Stock market investments target 7–10% annualized historically. Real estate typically yields 6–12%. High-risk ventures like startups should target 20%+ to justify the risk. Always compare your ROI against a risk-free benchmark like Treasury bonds appropriate for the asset class.
What is the difference between simple ROI and annualized ROI?
Simple ROI measures total percentage return regardless of time — a 60% return over 1 year or 5 years both show 60% ROI. Annualized ROI (CAGR) adjusts for time, showing the equivalent annual return. For comparing investments held for different durations, always use annualized ROI for an accurate apples-to-apples comparison.
How do I calculate marketing ROI?
Marketing ROI uses gross profit, not gross revenue: ROI = [(Gross Profit − Marketing Cost) ÷ Marketing Cost] × 100. Include all campaign costs — ad spend, creative production, and agency fees. Industry benchmarks vary widely: Google Ads averages 200% return, while email marketing averages 4,200% return on spend.
Does ROI account for inflation?
Standard ROI does not account for inflation. To find real ROI, subtract the inflation rate from your annualized return. With 3% US inflation, an 8% annualized ROI yields roughly 5% real purchasing-power growth. For investments spanning 5 or more years, real inflation-adjusted ROI is what truly matters for long-term wealth building.
Should I calculate ROI before or after taxes?
Calculate both. Pre-tax ROI shows gross performance; after-tax ROI shows what you actually keep. In the US, long-term capital gains on assets held over one year are taxed at 0%, 15%, or 20% based on income level. Short-term gains are taxed as ordinary income, up to 37% — a significant difference for active investors.
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