Basic EPS and diluted EPS are used to measure the profitability of a company. The amount earned by each share of common stock is represented as basic earnings per share in the company income statement. The higher the company's basic earnings per share, the greater the return on investment and profit common stockholders make. On the other hand, diluted earnings per share represent the profit that would be earned by each share of common stock if all dilutive securities were converted into common stock. This includes options, warrants, and convertible debentures. Diluted EPS is usually lower than basic EPS because it takes into account the potential dilution of earnings that could occur if all dilutive securities were exercised.