Return (Rendite)
The gain on an investment relative to the money invested, usually as a percentage per year.
In short
As of 5 October 2026Return is what an investment earns relative to the money you put in, usually in percent per year. With stocks, it combines price gains and dividends. If you buy a share for 100 euros, receive a 2 euro dividend and sell it for 110 euros, your return is 12 percent before costs and taxes. Higher returns usually mean higher risk.
Return (German: Rendite) shows what your investment has earned. For stocks it combines price gains and dividends, minus costs and taxes.
Example: you buy a share for 100 euros, receive a 2-euro dividend and sell it after a year for 110 euros. Your gain is 12 euros, a return of 12 % before costs and taxes.
High returns almost always come with higher risk. If someone promises high returns with no risk, be cautious. Past returns are no guarantee for the future.
Related terms
As of 5 October 2026 · Educational content, not investment or tax advice.