Investor Profit Calculation: Buying and Selling Stocks – What’s Behind the Numbers?

When investing in stocks, one of the most common scenarios is buying shares at a specific price, watching the value increase, and selling for a profit. Let’s explore a clear, real-world example to understand how investor profits are calculated — specifically, what happens when an investor buys 100 shares at $50 each, the stock rises by 20%, and then all shares are sold.


Understanding the Context

The Scenario

An investor purchases 100 shares of a stock at $50 per share.
Within a short period, the stock price increases by 20%. The investor then sells all 100 shares.


Step-by-Step Breakdown

Initial Investment:

  • Number of shares: 100
  • Purchase price per share: $50
  • Total cost = 100 × $50 = $5,000

Key Insights


Stock Price Increase:

  • The price rises by 20%
  • New price per share = $50 + (20% of $50) = $50 + $10 = $60

Sale Revenue:

  • Selling price per share: $60
  • Total sale amount = 100 × $60 = $6,000

Final Thoughts

Calculating Profit:
Profit = Sale Revenue – Initial Investment
Profit = $6,000 – $5,000 = $1,000


Summary

By buying 100 shares at $50 and selling them after a 20% price increase to $60, the investor generates a total profit of $1,000. This simple example illustrates how percentage gains directly translate into financial returns in stock investing.


Why This Matters for Investors

Understanding profit calculation helps investors evaluate stock performance beyond the headline price. After a price rise, timely selling allows investors to lock in gains — a crucial skill in disciplined investing and wealth building.


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By tracking key numbers like entry price, percentage gain, and final sale value, investors can make smarter, data-driven decisions in the stock market. Start calculating your own returns today — and remember, profit governance begins with clear math.