Variance

Dictionary Says

Definition of 'Variance'

A measure of the dispersion of a set of data points around their mean value. Variance is a mathematical expectation of the average squared deviations from the mean.
Investopedia Says

Investopedia explains 'Variance'

Variance measures the variability (volatility) from an average. Volatility is a measure of risk, so this statistic can help determine the risk an investor might take on when purchasing a specific security.

Sign Up For Term of the Day!

Try Our Stock Simulator!

Test your trading skills!

Related Definitions

  1. Mean

    The simple ...
  2. Yield Variance

    The difference ...
  3. Standard Deviation

    1. A measure of ...
  4. Variance Swap

    A type of ...
  5. Volatility

    1. A statistical ...
  6. Volatility Swap

    A forward ...
  7. Coefficient Of Variation - CV

    A statistical ...
  8. Ex-Post Risk

    A type of risk ...
  9. Heteroskedasticity

    In statistics, ...
  10. Semivariance

    A measure of the ...

Articles Of Interest

  1. Understanding Volatility Measurements

    How do you choose a fund with an optimal risk-reward combination? We teach you about standard deviation, beta and more!
  2. Exploring The Exponentially Weighted Moving Average

    Learn how to calculate a metric that improves on simple variance.
  3. Introduction To Stationary And Non-Stationary Processes

    What to know about stationary and non-stationary processes before you try to model or forecast.
  4. The Uses And Limits Of Volatility

    Check out how the assumptions of theoretical risk models compare to actual market performance.
  5. Is tracking error a significant measure for determining ex-post risk?

  6. Does Your Investment Manager Measure Up?

    These key stats will reveal whether your advisor is a league leader or a benchwarmer.
  7. Should You Invest Your Entire Portfolio In Stocks?

    It is true that stocks outperform bonds and cash in the long run, but that statistic doesn't tell the whole story.
  8. Risk Tolerance Only Tells Half The Story

    Just because you're willing to accept a risk, doesn't mean you always should.
  9. 5 Tips For Diversifying Your Portfolio

    A diversified portfolio will protect you in a tough market. Get some solid tips here!
  10. Invest Like A Pro

    By following the strategies of the pros, even a beginner can learn to invest like an expert.

comments powered by Disqus
Recommended
Loading, please wait...
Trading Center