Valuation methods & enterprise value · Working
Risk-free rate
Also called: Rf
ELI5
Reference return on an asset treated as having minimal default risk in the chosen currency and horizon.
Used in conversation
“Compare risk-free rate with the same cohort and period before drawing a conclusion.”
Pitch context
You will see “Risk-free rate” 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