How to Calculate Stock Profit
What is Stock Profit?
Stock profit (or loss) is the gain or loss realised from buying and selling shares. It includes capital appreciation (price change), dividends received, and after deducting transaction costs. Total return = (Sale price − Purchase price + Dividends) / Purchase price × 100%.
Step-by-Step Guide
- 1Record purchase price per share and number of shares bought
- 2Add any brokerage commission to the cost basis
- 3Record sale price per share and any commission on sale
- 4Profit = (Sale price − Purchase price) × Shares − Total commissions + Dividends received
Worked Examples
Input
Buy 100 shares @ £5 · Sell @ £8 · No dividends
Result
£300 profit (60% return)
(£800−£500) = £300
Input
Buy 50 shares @ $20 · Sell @ $15
Result
−$250 loss (−25%)
Capital loss — may offset other gains for tax
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