Stock Average Calculator
Calculate your average cost per share across multiple stock purchases
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Your Stock Summary
Break-Even Analysis
How to Calculate Average Stock Price
The average stock price is calculated using a weighted average formula. Unlike a simple average, this method accounts for the number of shares purchased at each price point.
The Formula:
Average Price = (Price₁ × Shares₁ + Price₂ × Shares₂ + ...) ÷ Total Shares
Example Calculation
Let's say you made two purchases of XYZ stock:
- First purchase: 100 shares at $50.00 = $5,000
- Second purchase: 150 shares at $40.00 = $6,000
Total Investment: $5,000 + $6,000 = $11,000
Total Shares: 100 + 150 = 250
Average Price: $11,000 ÷ 250 = $44.00 per share
What is Averaging Down?
Averaging down is an investment strategy where you purchase additional shares of a stock after its price has declined. This lowers your average cost per share and reduces the price at which you break even.
Potential Benefits
- Lower break-even point
- Greater profit if stock recovers
- Dollar cost averaging effect
Risks to Consider
- Stock may continue falling
- Increases exposure to one position
- May be throwing good money after bad
Dollar Cost Averaging vs. Averaging Down
While both strategies involve buying at different prices, they have key differences:
| Feature | Dollar Cost Averaging (DCA) | Averaging Down |
|---|---|---|
| Timing | Regular intervals (weekly, monthly) | After price drops |
| Approach | Planned, systematic | Reactive to market |
| Goal | Reduce timing risk | Lower cost basis |
| Risk Level | Lower (diversified over time) | Higher (concentrated position) |
When Should You Average Down on a Stock?
Before averaging down, ask yourself these critical questions:
- Why did the stock fall? Is it a temporary setback or a fundamental problem?
- Has the investment thesis changed? Are the reasons you bought still valid?
- Can you afford to lose more? Never invest money you can't afford to lose.
- Are you being emotional? Don't average down just to feel better about losses.
- What's your exit strategy? Know when you'll cut losses if the stock keeps falling.