What effect does volatility have on investments?

Volatility refers to the degree of variation in the price of an investment over time, which is often measured by the standard deviation of returns. The correct answer highlights that volatility can lead to unpredictable returns, meaning that while high volatility may create opportunities for substantial gains, it also increases the risk of significant losses.

When investments experience high volatility, the prices can swing dramatically in a short period, resulting in potential performance that diverges significantly from expectations. As such, an investor might see their portfolio's value fluctuate widely, complicating the ability to predict future performance or returns accurately. Therefore, understanding volatility is crucial for investors to manage risk effectively and make informed decisions about their asset allocation and investment strategies.

The other options do not accurately capture the essence of how volatility impacts investments. While volatility can sometimes lead to higher gains, it does not consistently do so. Additionally, it certainly can affect both long- and short-term investments and has a notable impact on overall returns, thereby making those choices less reflective of the complexities involved with investment volatility.