A return is an important measure of success when evaluating investments. The majority of investments will fluctuate over time, making it important for investors to understand how their money is performing. A return can be expressed relative to an investment's original cost or relative to a benchmark like the S&P 500.

The concept of return can also be applied to projects and initiatives. A return on investment or ROI measures the benefit against the cost of initiatives, allowing managers to compare projects and initiatives and make better decisions.

When calculating returns, individuals and organizations should consider the real rate of return. This rate of return accounts for inflation, taxes, and other costs. Without altering nominal returns to assess the real rate of return, investors and decision makers may overestimate the gain or loss associated with their investment or initiative.

Furthermore, potential investors should consider their risk tolerance when selecting investments. There is a direct relationship between risk and return, meaning that riskier investments have the potential for a greater return but also a greater loss. As a result, investors should understand the characteristics of each investment option to determine the ones that best fits within their risk tolerance.

Overall, a return refers to the amount of money gained or lost on an investment, project, or initiative. Understanding different types of returns and how they are measured is essential for investors, organizations, and decision makers. With this knowledge, individuals are better suited to make wise investments and make accurate decisions regarding projects and initiatives.