# Internal Rate of Return

Internal Rate of Return (IRR) is a discount rate that is used to identify potential/future investments that may be profitable. The IRR is used to make the net present value (NPV) of cash flows from a project/investment equal to zero.

In simpler terms, the IRR is used to determine what percentage return of an investment is necessary for it to break even when adjusted for the value of time and money involved. This is often considered the minimum acceptable return on investment, as most companies want to do more than just break even.

Internal Rate of Return is also sometimes referred to as the “discounted cash flow rate of return” or the “economic rate of return”. The “internal” part of the name refers to the fact that external factors such as inflation or the cost of capital are not included in the calculation.

## IRR Formula

$$NPV = \dfrac{CF_{0}}{(1 + r)^{0}} + \dfrac{CF_{1}}{(1 + r)^{1}} + \dfrac{CF_{2}}{(1 + r)^{2}} + \dfrac{CF_{n}}{(1 + r)^{n}} - Initial\: Investment = 0$$

• NPV = Net present value
• CF = Cash flow per period
• r = Internal rate of return