Intangible Assets Valuation

Abstract

The valuation of intangible assets has become an increasingly relevant topic, both because they significantly influence the value of a firm and because they are frequently negotiated, and, therefore, valued on a stand-alone basis. Three valuation approaches can be applied. The income approach determines the value of an intangible asset by reference to the present value (PV) of future income, cash flows, or cost savings that could be reasonably expected to be achieved. The market approach provides an indication of value by comparing the subject asset with identical or similar assets for which price information is available. The cost approach is based on the economic principle that a buyer will pay no more for an asset than the cost to obtain an asset of equal utility.