CAPM Calculator
Calculate the expected return of an asset using the Capital Asset Pricing Model based on the risk-free rate, market return, and beta.
Results
What is it?
The Capital Asset Pricing Model (CAPM) calculates the expected return of an investment given its systematic risk (beta). The formula is E(Ri) = Rf + βi × (Rm − Rf). It is the foundational model in modern portfolio theory and is commonly used to estimate the cost of equity in corporate finance.
How to use
Enter the risk-free rate (e.g., 10-year Treasury yield), the expected market return (historical average or forward estimate), and the stock's beta coefficient. The calculator outputs the expected return, the market risk premium, and the stock-specific risk premium.
Example scenario
With a risk-free rate of 4.5%, an expected market return of 10%, and a stock beta of 1.2: Expected return = 4.5% + 1.2 × (10% − 4.5%) = 4.5% + 6.6% = 11.1%.
Pro tip
Beta is backward-looking and can change over time. Use a 5-year monthly regression against a broad index for the most stable estimate. CAPM only captures systematic (market) risk — it does not account for size, value, momentum, or other factor premiums.