The discipline of mathematical statistics and the measure of volatility of investments are example concepts that have a tendency to scare the average investor. The standard deviation based on the rate of return of an investment is a measure of the volatility of the investment and is a good representation of risk found in stocks and options. It is said in Wikipedia that Karl Pearson, Fellow of the Royal Society, established the discipline of mathematical statistics. Karl Pearson first used the term “Standard Deviation” in writing in 1894 subsequent its use in his lectures. Standard Deviation is considered vital when used for financial issues.
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