What does volatility refer to in the context of investments?

Volatility in the context of investments specifically relates to the degree of variation in a trading price series over time. It is a statistical measure that quantifies the dispersion of returns for a given security or market index. High volatility indicates that the price of the investment can change dramatically over a short time period in either direction, whereas low volatility suggests price stability.

Understanding volatility is crucial for investors because it helps them gauge the risk associated with an investment. An investment with high volatility can offer the potential for higher returns but also comes with an increased level of risk. Conversely, investments with low volatility are generally considered safer, but they may also yield lower returns.

Thus, investing strategies often involve considerations of volatility to balance risk and reward according to the individual investor's risk tolerance and market conditions.