Standard deviation is a metric that shows the variability of a security’s returns over time. It can be used to gauge volatility based on past performance and compare a future return to past returns.

Steven Nickolas is a writer and has 10+ years of experience working as a consultant to retail and institutional investors. Gordon Scott has been an active investor and technical analyst for 20+ years.

Will Kenton is an expert on the economy and investing laws and regulations. He previously held senior editorial roles at Investopedia and Kapitall Wire and holds a MA in Economics from The New School ...

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