A tool used to estimate the intrinsic value of a stock based on the present value of its expected future dividends. This estimation process relies on mathematical formulas that discount projected dividend payments back to their present-day equivalent, considering factors such as the required rate of return and dividend growth rate. For instance, a calculation might involve projecting a company’s future dividends over a certain period, discounting those dividends using an investor’s required rate of return, and then summing the present values to arrive at an estimated stock value.
The utility of such a tool lies in its capacity to provide a framework for assessing whether a stock is overvalued or undervalued in the market. By comparing the calculated intrinsic value to the current market price, investors can make informed decisions about buying, selling, or holding a particular stock. Historically, this type of analysis has been a cornerstone of value investing strategies, helping investors identify opportunities to acquire assets at prices below their perceived worth and to assess the sustainability of dividend payments.