Valuation methods & enterprise value · Working
Cost of equity
Also called: equity discount rate
ELI5
Required return for equity investors under the chosen method.
Used in conversation
“The valuation memo needs to state the assumptions behind cost of equity.”
Pitch context
You will see “Cost of equity” in financial models, budgets, board packs and investor materials when the discussion reaches valuation methods & enterprise value.
Why it matters: In valuation methods & enterprise value, a loose definition can change rights, obligations, approval, disclosure or enforceability.
Caution
Meaning, enforceability and required process vary by jurisdiction and agreement; this definition is not legal advice.
Sources & evidence · 5
Direct term-level sources and supporting source families.
- IFRS Foundation — IFRS GlossaryDirect source · primary · checked 2026-08-16
- U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission — Small Business Capital Formation 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