how do I duplicate the Lotus 123 @rate function in Excel?

[WEBB]

Excel wants to give me the XIRR function, but that requires a specific data
layout, which is not always appropriate. I want to calculate a Compounded
Annual Rate of Return, by inputting the start value, end value and number of
years. Lotus made this very easy. Excel makes it very hard. Help

 

[Ron Rosenfeld]

Excel wants to give me the XIRR function, but that requires a specific data
layout, which is not always appropriate. I want to calculate a Compounded
Annual Rate of Return, by inputting the start value, end value and number of
years. Lotus made this very easy. Excel makes it very hard. Help

I'm not familiar with Lotus, but from what you write, I think Excel's RATE
function should work. Just leave the Pmt argument blank (or zero), and make
sure your Pv and Fv arguments have opposite signs.

--ron

 

[Fred Smith]

It's as easy as 1-2-3. Simply use the Rate function.

Regards,
Fred

 

[WEBB]

Thank you. I had been using the RATE function, but for some reason it wasn't
working. The problem seems to be when you use a time parameter less than 1
year. Sometimes that works and sometimes it doesn't. I don't know why that
is.

 

[Fred Smith]

You'll need to give us some examples, if you want further help. Rate works
for every time period that I've tried, including less than 1.

Regards,
Fred.