IRR: Internal Rate of Return Explained

Alternative Investments: Hedge Funds, Private Equity & Real Assets · 4:29

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Lyrics

[Verse 1]
Sarah's got a million dollars burning in her hand
Private equity calling with investment plans
They promise returns that sound so sweet
But how do we know if they can compete
She needs a number that tells the real story
A rate that reveals where lies the glory

[Chorus]
IRR, IRR, Internal Rate of Return
The magic number that makes profits burn
It's the discount rate where NPV turns zero
IRR, IRR, that's our financial hero
Higher is better, that's the golden rule
IRR, IRR, the investor's power tool

[Verse 2]
Think of it like this, it's not so hard
You plant your money like seeds in the yard
IRR tells you the growth rate you'll achieve
From the day you invest till the day you leave
If the fund says twenty percent IRR
That means your money grows that far each year

[Chorus]
IRR, IRR, Internal Rate of Return
The magic number that makes profits burn
It's the discount rate where NPV turns zero
IRR, IRR, that's our financial hero
Higher is better, that's the golden rule
IRR, IRR, the investor's power tool

[Bridge]
Cash flows out when you invest your stake
Cash flows in from the returns they make
Find the rate that makes present value equal
To your initial investment, that's the sequel
Twenty-five percent beats fifteen any day
IRR comparison shows you the way

[Verse 3]
Fund A promises thirty percent return
Fund B says twenty, which way do you turn
Compare their IRRs side by side
Let the higher number be your guide
But remember timing matters too
Early cash flows add more value through

[Final Chorus]
IRR, IRR, Internal Rate of Return
The magic number that makes profits burn
It's the discount rate where NPV turns zero
IRR, IRR, that's our financial hero
Higher beats lower, that's the golden rule
IRR, IRR, now you've got the tool

[Outro]
From private equity to your CFA
IRR will guide you on your way
Internal Rate of Return today
Makes investment choices child's play

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