Term Definition Why it matters
Alpha Return above a benchmark after adjusting for risk. Helps separate skill from market exposure.
Beta Sensitivity of an asset or portfolio to market moves. Shows how much risk comes from broad market swings.
Sharpe Ratio Risk-adjusted return using volatility as the risk proxy. Compares strategies with different risk levels.
Volatility How much returns fluctuate around the average. Higher volatility means a wider range of outcomes.
Max Drawdown Largest peak-to-trough decline in a period. Highlights worst-case loss you might have endured.
Correlation Measure of how two assets move together. Lower correlation improves diversification.
Rebalancing Adjusting weights to target allocations over time. Keeps risk profile consistent as prices move.
Tracking Error Volatility of the return difference versus a benchmark. Quantifies how closely you follow a reference index.