Margins, break-even & unit economics · Core
Lifetime value
Also called: LTV, CLV
ELI5
Estimated value produced by a customer over the relationship under specified assumptions.
Used in conversation
“Keep lifetime value on the dashboard, but show the definition and reporting period beside it.”
Pitch context
You will see “Lifetime value” in financial models, budgets, board packs and investor materials when the discussion reaches margins, break-even & unit economics.
Why it matters: In margins, break-even & unit economics, 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
- Customer lifetime valueThe search label “CLV” can route to both entries.
Sources & evidence · 4
Direct term-level sources and supporting source families.
- U.S. Small Business Administration — Break-even pointDirect 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. Securities and Exchange Commission — Non-GAAP Financial Measures — Compliance and Disclosure InterpretationsSupporting source family · primary · checked 2026-08-16