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])

Excel Online (Mac & Windows)

Examples

=mxls.MeanReturns("AAPL,MSFT,GOOGL")

Mean returns for 3 stocks

=mxls.MeanReturns("SPY,QQQ,IWM", "3Y")

3-year mean returns

=mxls.MeanReturns("AAPL,MSFT", "1Y", "daily")

1-year daily variation

=mxls.MeanReturns(A1:A10)

Portfolio from cell range

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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MarketXLS Excel Add-in Tutorial - How to Use Mean Returns and Other Financial Formulas

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