What is a risk adjusted discount rate?
Henry Morales
Published Feb 15, 2026
A risk-adjusted discount rate is the rate obtained by combining an expected risk premium with the risk-free rate during the calculation of the present value of a risky investment. A risky investment is an investment such as real estate or a business venture that entails higher levels of risk.
How do you calculate adjusted discount rate?
Using the Capital Asset Pricing Model A common tool used to calculate a risk-adjusted discount rate is the capital asset pricing model (CAPM). Under this model, the risk-free interest rate is adjusted by a risk premium based upon the beta of the project.
What are the advantages of risk adjusted discount rate?
Advantages and Disadvantages of Risk Adjusted Discount Rate This approach is simple and easy to understand. It is appealing to a risk-averse investor. This approach helps to reduce uncertainty and fluctuations in the expected return. It also helps to bring out the risk level in an investment or project.
What is a high risk discount rate?
When a high risk-adjusted discount rate is applied to a stream of cash flows, the net present value of those cash flows will be greatly reduced. Conversely, a low risk-adjusted discount rate will result in a higher net present value. A proposed investment with a higher net present value is more likely to be accepted.
How does a high discount rate affect the economy?
Setting a high discount rate tends to have the effect of raising other interest rates in the economy since it represents the cost of borrowing money for most major commercial banks and other depository institutions. When too few actors want to save money, banks entice them with higher interest rates.
How does the discount rate affect inflation?
The Fed policy lowers the discount rate, which means banks have to lower their interest rates to compete for loans. As a result, expansionary policies increase the money supply, spur lending, and boost (expand) economic growth—which also increases inflation.
How do you find the discount rate example?
Discount Rate = (Future Cash Flow / Present Value) 1/ n – 1
- Discount Rate = ($3,000 / $2,200) 1/5 – 1.
- Discount Rate = 6.40%
