There isn’t a single universal “investment equation” that applies to all situations. However, there are a couple of key metrics used to evaluate investments and some formulas that can be helpful. Here’s a breakdown:

Return on Investment (ROI):

• This is a common metric to gauge the profitability of an investment.
• ROI Formula: ROI = (Net Return / Investment Cost) * 100 (expressed as a percentage)
  • Net Return = Selling Price – Purchase Price + Income from Investment (dividends, interest)
• ROI helps you understand how much profit you made relative to the initial investment.

Time Value of Money:

• This concept acknowledges that a dollar today is worth more than a dollar tomorrow due to potential earning potential.
• There are various formulas to calculate future or present value of money considering interest rates and timeframes. These can be complex and may involve financial calculators or spreadsheet functions.

Here are some resources that go into more detail on these concepts:

• ROI: https://www.investopedia.com/terms/r/returnoninvestment.asp
• Time Value of Money: https://www.investopedia.com/articles/03/082703.asp

Additional factors to consider beyond formulas:

• Risk tolerance: How much potential loss are you comfortable with?
• Investment goals: Are you looking for short-term gains or long-term growth?
• Investment diversification: Spreading your investments across different asset classes reduces risk.

Remember, these are just tools to help you make informed investment decisions. It’s important to do your own research, consider your financial situation, and potentially consult with a financial advisor before making any investments.