Which is better: having a stock that goes up \( 20 \% \) on Monday than drops \( 20 \% \) on Tuesday, or a stock that drops \( 20 \% \) on Monday and goes up \( 20 \% \) on Tuesday? Both choices are equivalent. A stock that drops \( 20 \% \) on Monday and goes up \( 20 \% \) on Tuesday. A stock that goes up \( 20 \% \) on Monday than drops \( 20 \% \) on Tuesday.
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Let's break down the math! If a stock worth $100 goes up by 20% on Monday, it will be worth $120. However, if it then drops by 20% on Tuesday, it loses $24, bringing the value down to $96. Conversely, if it drops 20% first, it will be worth $80. A subsequent 20% increase brings it back to $96 as well. While the values indeed seem equivalent at first glance, the journey is what matters! So, while both paths lead to the same final value of $96, the first scenario is a rollercoaster ride of emotions—watching a stock soar only to tumble can be nerve-wracking! In the second scenario, the initial drop might feel painful, but the climb back up provides a glimmer of hope. Most investors would prefer smoother rides, but this fun exercise shows how percentages can be deceptive!