Capital Asset Pricing Model (CAPM)

The Capital Asset Pricing Model (CAPM) is an equilibrium model that measures the relationship between risk and expected return of an asset based on the asset’s sensitivity to movements in the overall stock market.
CAPM is used to price the risk of an asset or a portfolio of assets. The model is based on the idea that there are two types of risk, systematic risk and idiosyncratic risk, and that the investor should be compensated for both types of risk, as well as, the time value of money. Systematic risk refers to market risk. Idiosyncratic risk refers to the risk of an individual asset. Time value of money refers to the difference between the present value of money and the future value of money. Also, use the model to measure the required rate of return for capital budgeting projects.
The CAPM states that an asset’s expected return equals the risk-free rate plus a risk premium. The risk-free rate refers to the return on an investment without risk, such as a US Treasury Bond, and represents the time value of money. The risk premium represents the incremental return for investing in a risky asset. In the CAPM, it is defined as the market premium, or the overall stock market return less the risk-free rate, multiplied by the beta of the asset. Beta is a factor that measures an asset’s sensitivity to movements in the overall stock market. According to the CAPM, riskier assets should yield higher returns.

The CAPM Formula

Expected Return = Risk-Free Rate + Beta (Market Return – Risk-Free Rate)
For example, if the risk free rate is 5%, the market return is 10%, and the stock’s beta is 2, then the expected return on the stock would be 15%.
15% = 5% + 2 (10% – 5%)

Problems with Capital Asset Pricing Model (CAPM)

The Capital Asset Pricing Model (CAPM) is based on assumptions. First, the model assumes that a riskier asset will yield a higher return. But this is not necessarily true. A risky asset could decline in value. Second, historical data determines beta. The model assumes this historical data an accurate predictor of future results. But the asset’s future volatility may not necessarily reflect its past volatility.
Download the free Pricing for Profit Inspection Guide to learn how to price profitably.

[box]Strategic CFO Lab Member Extra
Access your Strategic Pricing Model Execution Plan in SCFO Lab. The step-by-step plan to set your prices to maximize profits.
Click here to access your Execution Plan. Not a Lab Member?
Click here to learn more about SCFO Labs[/box]

ARTICLES YOU MIGHT LIKE

Does your Accounting Department Produce Net Income?

August 28, 2023

Coaching the Entrepreneur: Learn how to know what you don’t know. How much should I spend on accounting for my company? I have been in the accounting profession for 32 years, and for the last 6 years, I’ve owned my own consulting firm to assist companies with accounting challenges. There is one common theme that I

Paying Too Much For Accounting? How Near-Sourcing Could Help Your Small Business

July 26, 2023

Is your company maintaining accurate, U.S. GAAP-compliant financial records? Are you relying on a Tax CPA vs managerial accountants? Do you struggle to afford the professional, qualified accountants your company needs? These are some of the most common challenges we see working with companies of all sizes across industries. Art Goetz sits down with the

Is Mexico the New China?

June 1, 2023

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and escalating tensions with China, American companies are actively seeking alternatives to mitigate their supply chain risks and reduce dependence on Chinese manufacturing. Nearshoring, the process of relocating operations closer to home, has emerged as an explosive opportunity for American and Mexican companies to collaborate like never before.

MARCH 28TH-31ST 2022

Days

Hours

Min

August 7-10th, 2023

Days

Hours

Min

SHARE THIS ARTICLE