DOI
10.2469/faj.v60.n6.1909
Abstract
We present a real option valuation using the weighted average cost of capital (WACC). This is an alternative to risk-neutral real option valuation. Using the WACC involves a marginal increase in mathematical complexity, but it is easy to implement in a spreadsheet, and it is easy to present to management. Our analysis reveals, however, that because the real option valuation is immune to choices of admissible discount rates (as per Arnold and Crack 2003a), the critical issue is correct estimation of volatility, not choice of discount rate. We also point out that the natural and conservative tendency to overestimate risk is anything but conservative in a real option valuation.
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
11-2004
Publisher Statement
Copyright © 2004 CFA Institute. Article first published online: 2004. DOI: 10.2469/faj.v60.n6.1909
The definitive version is available at: http://www.cfapubs.org/doi/pdf/10.2469/faj.v60.n6.1909
Full citation:
Arnold, Tom, and Timothy Falcon Crack. "Using the WACC to Value Real Options." Financial Analysts Journal 60, no. 6 (November/December 2004): 78-82. doi:10.2469/faj.v60.n6.1909.
Recommended Citation
Arnold, Tom and Crack, Timothy Falcon, "Using the WACC to Value Real Options" (2004). Finance Faculty Publications. 7.
https://scholarship.richmond.edu/finance-faculty-publications/7