When it comes to investing, risk and return go hand-in-hand. Every investor wants to maximize returns while minimizing risk. To do this, it’s important to understand how to use risk-adjusted returns to manage risk in your investment portfolio.

Risk-adjusted returns measure the return of an investment relative to the amount of risk taken on to achieve that return. By using risk-adjusted returns, investors can compare the performance of different investments and make informed decisions about their portfolios.

Risk-adjusted returns are calculated by taking the total return of an investment and subtracting the risk-free rate of return. The risk-free rate of return is the rate of return an investor could expect if he or she invested in a risk-free asset, such as a government bond. The difference between the total return and the risk-free rate of return is the risk-adjusted return.

For example, let’s say an investor is considering two different investments. Investment A has a total return of 10% and a risk-free rate of return of 5%. Investment B has a total return of 12% and a risk-free rate of return of 6%. The risk-adjusted return for Investment A would be 5%, while the risk-adjusted return for Investment B would be 6%.

By comparing the risk-adjusted returns, the investor can see that Investment B is the better option as it offers higher returns with the same amount of risk.

Risk-adjusted returns can also be used to compare different investments within the same asset class. For example, an investor may be considering two different stocks in the same sector. By calculating the risk-adjusted return for each stock, the investor can determine which one offers the best return relative to the amount of risk taken on.

Investors can also use risk-adjusted returns to compare the performance of their own portfolios with that of the market. By calculating the risk-adjusted return of their portfolio, they can see how their returns compare to the overall market.

Finally, risk-adjusted returns can be used to measure the performance of a portfolio over time. By tracking the risk-adjusted returns of a portfolio, investors can determine if their investments are performing as expected or if they need to adjust their strategy.

Risk-adjusted returns are a valuable tool for investors looking to maximize returns while minimizing risk. By calculating the risk-adjusted return of their investments, investors can compare the performance of different investments, compare their portfolios to the market, and measure the performance of their portfolios over time. With the right knowledge and tools, investors can use risk-adjusted returns to manage risk in their investment portfolios.