Budgets, forecasts & scenarios · Core
Base case
Also called: central case
ELI5
The central scenario considered most representative or useful for planning.
Used in conversation
“State the period, currency and accounting basis for base case.”
Pitch context
You will see “Base case” in financial models, budgets, board packs and investor materials when the discussion reaches budgets, forecasts & scenarios.
Why it matters: In budgets, forecasts & scenarios, different calculation boundaries, periods or accounting treatments can change the number and the decision.
Caution
Calculation, recognition and disclosure can vary by accounting framework, company policy and reporting context.
Connected terms
- BaselineThe search label “Base case” can route to both entries.
Sources & evidence · 5
Direct term-level sources and supporting source families.
- U.S. Small Business Administration — Write your business planDirect source · primary · checked 2026-08-16
- IFRS Foundation — IFRS GlossaryDirect source · primary · checked 2026-08-16
- Financial Accounting Standards Board — FASB Accounting Standards CodificationSupporting source family · primary · checked 2026-08-16
- U.S. Small Business Administration — Break-even pointSupporting source family · primary · checked 2026-08-16
- U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission — Non-GAAP Financial Measures — Compliance and Disclosure InterpretationsSupporting source family · primary · checked 2026-08-16