Profitability Index Calculator

Calculate the profitability index (PI) to evaluate investment efficiency and capital allocation.

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Important Financial Disclaimer

This calculator provides estimates based on standard financial formulas from verified references. Results are for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered as professional financial, investment, or tax advice.

For important financial decisions such as loans, investments, mortgages, retirement planning, or tax matters, please consult with qualified financial advisors, certified financial planners, or licensed tax professionals who can review your specific situation.

Calculations may not account for all variables specific to your circumstances, local regulations, or current market conditions. Always verify results and consult professionals before making financial commitments.

Not a substitute for professional financial advice

Investment Details

$100,000
$10,000$10,000,000
10%
1%30%
Year 1
Year 2
Year 3
Year 4
Year 5

Profitability Index (PI)

1.291

Accept: $0.29 created per $1 invested

PV of Cash Flows
$129,079
NPV
$29,079
Initial Investment
$100,000
Value per $1 Invested
$0.29

PI Decision Rule

PI > 1Accept (creates value)
PI = 1Indifferent (break-even)
PI < 1Reject (destroys value)

Profitability Index Formula

PI = PV of Future Cash Flows / Initial Investment = 1 + (NPV / Initial Investment)

When to Use PI

Best for capital rationing when you need to rank projects by efficiency rather than absolute value.

PI vs NPV

PI shows value per dollar; NPV shows total value. Use NPV for mutually exclusive projects, PI for independent projects with limited capital.

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sources

  • Reserve Bank of India (RBI) — Financial regulations, lending rates, and monetary policy guidelines. rbi.org.in
  • Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) — Consumer finance guidelines, mortgage and loan disclosure standards. consumerfinance.gov
  • Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) — Investment and securities market regulations. sebi.gov.in
  • Investopedia — Financial formulas, definitions, and educational content. investopedia.com

For a complete list of all references used across the site, visit our full sources page.

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Editorial Note

MyCalcBuddy Editorial Team

This page is maintained as an educational calculator reference.

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Formula Source: Fundamentals of Financial Management

by Brigham & Houston

🔄Last reviewed: May 2026
✓Formula checks are based on standard references and internal QA review.