Understanding Returns
Realized return refers to profits that have been locked in by selling stocks.
Example
If you bought a stock at $100 and later sold it at $120, the $20 profit is your realized return.
Unrealized return refers to the paper gains/losses on stocks you currently hold.
Example
If you bought a stock at $100 and still hold it today with the current price at $130, the $30 is your unrealized return.