The rate of return is similar to Return on investment (ROI) in the sense that there exists an amount or percentage of money coming back to the investor(s). Factors that influence the rate of return include the current climate in the market, inflation rates, bank’s interest rates (as Agnieszka stated above), the speculation around which can shift stocks of various companies sometimes instantaneously. The rate of return needs to be calculated/estimated while being cognizant of the above factors. Purchasing risky stocks can hinder or increase the rate of return. Many times, however, it is hindered. Stocks can be invested in either as a long term or short term investment. The rate of return can be more steadly or higher as a long term investor as opposed to a short term day trader.

In short, it depends.