How is Net Asset Value (NAV) calculated?

Net Asset Value (NAV) is a crucial concept in asset management, particularly for mutual funds and exchange-traded funds (ETFs). It represents the value of a fund's assets that is attributable to each share outstanding. The correct calculation of NAV is determined by subtracting the total liabilities of the fund from the total assets, and then dividing this net asset figure by the number of shares outstanding.

This approach ensures that the NAV reflects the true economic value of the fund's holdings available to investors after accounting for any debts or obligations. By using total assets minus total liabilities, the calculation provides a clear indication of the fund's equity value on a per-share basis.

Understanding this calculation is essential for investors to make informed decisions about buying, holding, or selling shares of a fund. The incorrect options misrepresent the relationship between assets, liabilities, and outstanding shares, either by not properly accounting for the subtraction of liabilities from assets or by considering the components unrelated to NAV calculation, such as treating liabilities independently or incorrectly as assets.