Asset value per share is a financial metric used to determine the value of a company's assets per outstanding share of its common stock. It is calculated by dividing the total value of a company's assets by the number of common shares outstanding.
The asset value per share provides investors with an indication of the underlying value of each share in a company. It helps evaluate the potential worth of an investment by comparing the share price to the tangible assets owned by the company. If the asset value per share is higher than the market price per share, it may indicate that the stock is undervalued. On the other hand, if the asset value per share is lower than the market price per share, it may indicate that the stock is overvalued.
This metric is particularly useful in industries where asset-heavy companies operate, such as manufacturing or real estate sectors. It helps investors assess the intrinsic value of a company, excluding intangible assets like brand value or intellectual property. Additionally, it can be used to compare the asset value per share of different companies within the same industry, allowing for better investment decisions.
However, it is important to note that asset value per share is just one metric and should not be solely relied upon when making investment decisions. Other factors, such as profitability, growth prospects, and market conditions, should also be taken into consideration.