Definition:
The book value method is a method of valuing a company’s stock based on its book value per share. Book value per share is calculated by dividing the company’s total equity by the number of outstanding common shares.
Formula:
Book Value per Share = (Total Equity) / (Number of Outstanding Common Shares)
Key points about the book value method:
- Valuation method: The book value method is a simple method for valuing a company’s stock.
- Historical cost: Book value is based on the historical cost of the company’s assets and liabilities.
- Market value: Book value may not always reflect the market value of a company’s stock.
- Limitations: The book value method has limitations, as it does not consider factors such as future earnings potential, intangible assets, and market conditions.
Why is the book value method used?
- Simplicity: The book value method is a simple and easy-to-understand method for valuing a company’s stock.
- Benchmark: It can be used as a benchmark for comparing the value of different companies.
- Financial analysis: Book value is used in various financial ratios, such as price-to-book ratio and return on equity.
However, it’s important to note that the book value method has limitations and may not provide an accurate valuation of a company’s stock in all cases.
In essence, the book value method is a method of valuing a company’s stock based on its book value per share, and it’s a simple and easy-to-understand method.