Quick Answer

MDURATION Function

Calculates the modified duration of a bond.

✓ Excel✓ Google SheetsExcel All versions

Syntax

MDURATION
(settlement, maturity, coupon, yld, frequency, [basis])

Parameters

ParameterDescriptionRequired
settlementDate the security is purchased.Required
maturityDate the security expires.Required
couponAnnual coupon rate.Required
yldAnnual yield to maturity.Required
frequencyNumber of coupon payments per year (1, 2, or 4).Required
basisDay-count convention (0 = US 30/360, default).Optional

Basic Example

Modified duration of a bond

=MDURATION(DATE(2024,4,1), DATE(2034,4,1), 0.05, 0.06, 2)
ResultModified duration in years

For a 5% coupon bond yielding 6% with semi-annual payments, this returns the modified duration.

Advanced Examples

Example 1: Estimate price sensitivity

Interest rate risk

If MDURATION is 7.5, a 1% yield increase causes roughly a 7.5% price drop.

=MDURATION(DATE(2024,4,1), DATE(2034,4,1), 0.05, 0.06, 2, 1)
Result: Modified duration using actual/actual
Basis 1 is used for Treasury bonds.

How MDURATION Works

MDURATION adjusts Macaulay duration for yield to measure price sensitivity. Modified duration = Macaulay duration / (1 + yld/frequency).

1
Enter settlement
Type the settlement
2
Enter maturity
Type the maturity
3
Enter coupon
Type the coupon
4
Enter yld
Type the yld
5
Calculate
Press Enter to get the result.

Important Notes & Limitations

  • Settlement must be before maturity.

  • Frequency must be 1, 2, or 4.

  • Modified duration is a linear approximation; convexity improves accuracy for large yield changes.

Common Errors & Fixes

#NUM! errorInvalid dates, rates, or frequency.

Fix: Verify all inputs.

#VALUE! errorDates are not recognized.

Fix: Use DATE function or valid date serial numbers.

Download Practice File

Practice MDURATION with Real Data

Download a sample CSV file with pre-populated data and practice exercises for the MDURATION function. Works in both Excel and Google Sheets.

Works in Google SheetsCompatible with ExcelIncludes exercises

File format: CSV (comma-separated values) - opens in Excel, Google Sheets, and all spreadsheet apps

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between DURATION and MDURATION?
DURATION is Macaulay duration. MDURATION is modified duration, which measures price sensitivity directly.
How do I use MDURATION to estimate price change?
Approximate percentage price change = -MDURATION * yield change.