Home Back

Risk Premium Calculation Formula

Risk Premium Formula:

\[ \text{Risk Premium} = \text{Expected Return} - \text{Risk-Free Rate} \]

%
%

Unit Converter ▲

Unit Converter ▼

From: To:

1. What is Risk Premium?

Risk Premium is the excess return that an investment provides over the risk-free rate. It represents the compensation investors require for taking on the additional risk of an investment compared to a risk-free asset.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Risk Premium formula:

\[ \text{Risk Premium} = \text{Expected Return} - \text{Risk-Free Rate} \]

Where:

Explanation: The formula calculates the additional return investors expect to receive for taking on investment risk beyond what they would get from a risk-free asset.

3. Importance of Risk Premium Calculation

Details: Calculating risk premium is essential for investment decision-making, portfolio management, and determining appropriate asset allocation. It helps investors assess whether the potential return of an investment adequately compensates for its risk level.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the expected return percentage and risk-free rate percentage. Both values should be expressed as percentages (e.g., enter 8.5 for 8.5%).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is considered a risk-free rate?
A: The risk-free rate typically refers to the yield on government bonds, such as US Treasury bills, which are considered virtually risk-free from default.

Q2: How is expected return determined?
A: Expected return can be calculated using historical data, financial models, or analyst projections based on the investment's risk characteristics and market conditions.

Q3: What does a negative risk premium indicate?
A: A negative risk premium suggests that the investment is expected to underperform the risk-free rate, which may indicate it's not adequately compensating for its risk.

Q4: How does risk premium vary across different asset classes?
A: Different asset classes have different risk premiums. Equities typically have higher risk premiums than bonds, which reflect their higher volatility and risk.

Q5: Why is risk premium important in portfolio construction?
A: Risk premium helps investors make informed decisions about asset allocation by quantifying the additional return expected for taking on different levels of risk.

Risk Premium Calculation Formula© - All Rights Reserved 2025