Mean Returns
Calculates the mean (average) returns for a portfolio of assets over a specified time period. This is a fundamental metric for portfolio analysis and Modern Portfolio Theory.
Parameters
| Parameter | Type | Required | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Portfolio | string | Yes | Comma-separated list of ticker symbols |
| Period | string | No | Time period (1Y, 3Y, 5Y, etc.) |
| Variation | string | No | Return variation type |
Notes
- Returns are typically annualized
- Used as input for portfolio optimization
Syntax
=mxls.MeanReturns(Portfolio, [Period], [Variation])Parameters
portfoliostringRequired
Portfolio symbols as comma-separated list
periodstring
Time period for calculation (e.g., 1Y, 3Y)
variationstring
Return variation type
Returns
number
Mean returns for the portfolio
Examples
=mxls.MeanReturns("AAPL,MSFT,GOOGL")=mxls.MeanReturns("SPY,QQQ,IWM", "3Y")=mxls.MeanReturns("AAPL,MSFT", "1Y", "daily")=mxls.MeanReturns(A1:A10)When to Use
- Portfolio performance analysis
- Expected return calculations
- Input for portfolio optimization
- Comparing asset returns
- Risk-adjusted return analysis
When NOT to Use
| Scenario | Use Instead |
|---|---|
| Need risk metrics | Skewness() or Kurtosis() |
| Need efficient frontier | PortfolioEfficientFrontierChartReport() |
| Need simulation | MonteCarloSimulation() |
| Need drawdown analysis | Drawdowns() |
Common Issues & FAQ
What period format should I use?
Use formats like 1Y (1 year), 3Y (3 years), 6M (6 months).
Are returns annualized?
Yes, returns are typically annualized for comparison purposes.
How are returns calculated?
Based on historical price data for the specified period.
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