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AcademyGlossaryNet Asset Value

Net Asset Value

Net Asset Value (NAV) is a financial metric that represents the per-share value of a mutual fund, exchange-traded fund (ETF), or other pooled investment fund. It is calculated by subtracting the fund’s liabilities from its total assets and then dividing the result by the number of outstanding shares. NAV is crucial for investors as it provides a snapshot of the fund’s value at a specific point in time, typically at the end of the trading day. This value helps investors determine the worth of their investment and make informed decisions about buying or selling shares.

What is Net Asset Value (NAV)?

Net Asset Value (NAV) is the per-share value of a mutual fund, ETF, or other pooled investment fund. It reflects the fund’s market value at a specific point in time, usually at the close of the trading day. NAV is essential for investors as it provides a clear picture of the fund’s worth and helps in making investment decisions.

How is NAV Calculated?

To calculate NAV, follow these steps:

  1. Total Assets: Determine the total market value of all the securities and other assets held by the fund.

  2. Total Liabilities: Subtract any liabilities the fund owes, such as management fees, operational costs, and other expenses.

  3. Outstanding Shares: Divide the net value (total assets minus total liabilities) by the number of outstanding shares of the fund.

The formula for NAV is:

NAV=Total AssetsTotal LiabilitiesNumber of Outstanding Shares\text{NAV} = \frac{\text{Total Assets} - \text{Total Liabilities}}{\text{Number of Outstanding Shares}}

This calculation provides the NAV per share, which investors use to assess the value of their holdings in the fund.

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