CAGR vs Absolute Return — Which Should You Use?
Absolute Return
Simple percentage gain from start to end. If you invested ₹1 lakh and got back ₹1.5 lakh, absolute return = 50%. Does NOT consider time.
CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate)
Annualized return that accounts for time. ₹1 lakh becoming ₹1.5 lakh in 3 years = CAGR of 14.47%. In 5 years = CAGR of 8.45%.
When to Use Which
Absolute Return: For investments less than 1 year.
CAGR: For comparing investments over different time periods. Always use CAGR when someone claims high returns — ask over how many years.
Example
Fund A: 100% return in 10 years (CAGR = 7.18%). Fund B: 60% return in 4 years (CAGR = 12.47%). Fund B is actually better despite lower absolute return!