Definitions
Total return
Total return measures shareholder return from both share price changes and dividends/distributions, assuming dividends/distributions are reinvested on the ex-dividend/distribution date. It is shown as a percentage and in absolute terms.
Dividend/Distributions
Unadjusted dividend/distribution
The dividend's/distribution's value at the time it was disbursed, i.e., not adjusted for issues, splits or redemption.
Adjusted dividend/distribution
The dividend/distribution amount is adjusted for share issues and splits. Example: In 2006, a dividend/distribution of $10 (for a given currency) would mean that in 2010, a two for one stock split gives holders two shares for everyone one that was held. The dividend/distribution of $10 in 2006 is recalculated taking into account that the holders now have twice as many units/shares. The adjusted dividend/distribution is in this example $5 per unit/share.
Dividend/Distribution yield
The dividend/distribution yield measures the annual dividends/distributions paid by a company relative to its share price. It is expressed as a percentage and is calculated by dividing the annual dividend/distribution per share by the current share price.
Share price
The share price is a reflection of the trading in company’s share price quoted on the relevant stock exchange.
Average annual return
As investors use the term, the return an investment provides over a period of time, expressed as a time-weighted annual percentage. Sources of returns can include interest, dividends/distributions, returns of capital, and capital appreciation.