What is the difference between Absolute Return and CAGR?

Absolute return is the total gain or loss on an investment expressed as a percentage of the initial cost. CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate) represents the average annual growth rate over a period longer than one year, accounting for compounding.

How to calculate stock profit after tax in India?

To find your actual profit, subtract the cost price from the selling price, then deduct 20% for Short Term (if held 1yr) capital gains tax. Also, remember to factor in brokerage and STT.

Should I include dividends in return calculation?

Yes, dividends are a critical part of 'Total Return'. Many stocks with low price appreciation offer high dividend yields, making the overall return much higher than just the price change.

Stock Return Calculator

Calculate your stock portfolio returns including dividends and India-tax-aware capital gains assumptions.

Buy Price per Share

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Number of Shares

Sell Price per Share

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Dividends Received (total)

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Holding Period

Scenarios

Net Profit
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Total Return

CAGR

Capital Gains Tax

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What this means for you

Actionable Suggestions

Held <12 months: STCG at 20%
Held ≥12 months: LTCG at 12.5%, first ₹1.25L exempt
CAGR formula: ((Sell/Buy)^(1/years) − 1) × 100

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Profit Breakdown

Buy Value

Capital Gain

Dividends

Capital gains tax on stocks — India assumptions used here

This calculator uses a simplified India equity-tax model for listed shares and equity mutual funds. Long-term and short-term treatment, exemption limits, and holding-period rules can change over time, so always compare the calculator output with the latest applicable rules before using it for filing or final tax planning.

CAGR explained

Compound Annual Growth Rate = (End Value / Start Value)^(1/Years) − 1. It tells you the equivalent steady annual return. A stock that goes from ₹100 to ₹250 in 5 years has a CAGR of 20.1% — far more useful than saying "it went up 150%." Nifty 50's 20-year CAGR (2004–2024) is approximately 14.8%.

How to think about tax harvesting

Tax harvesting means realizing gains in a controlled way so your future tax burden can stay lower. The exact benefit depends on the exemption rules, your holding period, and what else you have already realized in the same financial year.