The NASDAQ returned 42.13% in 2023. Using a better calculation, which includes dividend reinvestment, the NASDAQ returned 43.31%.
The 2023 NASDAQ Return: what a difference a year makes
These returns assumed you bought the NASDAQ index at the open on January 3rd, 2023 and sold at close on December 29, 2023. If you prefer a 'full year' of history and instead bought the close on December 30, 2022, those numbers are 43.42% and 44.64%, respectively.
2023 NASDAQ Index Price Return
| Price Based On | 2023 Begin | Dec 29 Close | Return |
| Jan 3 Open | 10,562.06 | 15,011.35 | 42.13% |
| Dec 30 Close | 10,466.48 | 15,011.35 | 43.42% |
NASDAQ Reinvested Dividend Return in 2023
| Price Based On | 2023 Begin | Dec 29 Close | Return |
| Jan 3 Open | 12,705.30 | 18,208.50 | 43.31% |
| Dec 30 Close | 12,588.95 | 18,208.50 | 44.64% |
The timing doesn't matter much - and, let's be serious: it's impossible to buy the exact open and close price (not to mention index tracking errors, fees, slippage, and other factors that would throw you off). But, interestingly, you can see that factoring in dividends matters. That's right, even for a technology-heavy index which tends to shun dividends to reinvest in growth, dividends made a material difference.
And, wow, what a return in 2023!
Source on the 2023 NASDAQ Return Calculations
NASDAQ Indexes (appropriately!) owns the NASDAQ. At their site, you'll find the index level and total return data. Find NASDAQ total return data here or on investing.com.
See NASDAQ returns in other years:
