An online tool assists investors in determining the average price of a particular stock holding after additional purchases at different price points. For example, if an investor initially buys 100 shares at $50 and later purchases another 100 shares at $40, this tool quickly calculates the average purchase price, which in this case would be $45. This facilitates informed decision-making by providing a clear picture of the overall investment cost basis.
Understanding the average cost basis is crucial for evaluating investment performance and making strategic decisions about buying or selling. This method provides a simplified view of a complex portfolio, particularly when dealing with multiple transactions of the same security over time. Historically, investors performed these calculations manually. However, readily available online resources now streamline this process, saving time and reducing the risk of errors. This accessibility empowers investors with greater control and clarity in managing their portfolios.