How This Intrinsic Value Calculator Works
This calculator uses a simplified Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model to estimate a modeled present value from the cash-flow assumptions you enter.
- Forecast future cash flows from your growth assumptions.
- Apply a discount rate to convert future cash flows into present value.
- Calculate terminal value to capture value beyond the forecast period.
Intrinsic Value Formula (DCF Model)
DCF valuation combines two parts:
- Present value of forecast cash flows (year 1 to year N).
- Present value of terminal value after year N.
In simple terms: Intrinsic Value = PV of Forecast Cash Flows + PV of Terminal Value.
Example: Calculating Apple (AAPL) Intrinsic Value
Let's walk through a simplified DCF for Apple (AAPL) using publicly reported figures and conservative assumptions:
| Input | Value | Source / Rationale |
|---|---|---|
| Free cash flow per share (FCF/share) | $6.50 | ~$99B FCF ÷ ~15.2B diluted shares |
| Growth rate (years 1–10) | 8% | Conservative vs. historical FCF growth |
| Discount rate (WACC) | 9% | Approx. cost of capital for a mega-cap tech stock |
| Terminal growth rate | 3% | In-line with long-run GDP growth |
| Forecast horizon | 10 years | Standard DCF window |
Discounting each year's projected FCF back at 9% gives a present value of forecast cash flows of roughly $61.80/share. The terminal value (year-10 FCF × 1.03 ÷ (9% − 3%)) is about $240.85, which discounts back to approximately $101.75/share.
Intrinsic value ≈ $61.80 + $101.75 ≈ $163.55 per share.
Compare that modeled estimate to AAPL's market price to see the calculated gap. Other assumptions will produce a different number. Try the calculator above with your own FCF, growth, and discount-rate inputs to see how sensitive the estimate is.
Note: assumptions are illustrative, not a recommendation. Update them with the latest filings if you want a current modeled estimate.
Try with real stock dataExplore More Stock Valuation Tools
Related Investing Topics
Understanding these concepts will help you use this calculator effectively:
Related Calculators
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is an intrinsic value calculator?
- It estimates a modeled fair value from the cash-flow, growth, and discount-rate inputs you enter, then compares that estimate with a current price. The result is a calculation, not a conclusion that the stock is undervalued or overvalued.
- How accurate is a DCF intrinsic value calculation?
- DCF outputs change when growth or discount-rate assumptions change. Treat the number as a model estimate from your inputs, not a market-price prediction.
- What discount rate should I use?
- This calculator uses the discount rate you enter. A common research range is 8%–12%; higher-risk businesses are often modelled with a higher rate. There is no single correct rate.
- What does margin of safety mean in this calculator?
- Margin of safety here is the percentage difference between your modeled estimate and the price you entered. It is arithmetic from those inputs, not a recommendation to buy or sell.
- Can beginners use an intrinsic value calculator?
- Yes. Enter cash flows, growth, and a discount rate to see a modeled estimate. Compare it with price and other research — it is not a recommendation.
- Is intrinsic value the same as market price?
- No. Market price is the last traded quote. Intrinsic value in this tool is a modeled estimate from your assumptions, not the “true worth” of the shares.
- Which method does this calculator use?
- This page uses Discounted Cash Flow (DCF). Other models (multiples, DDM) will produce different estimates. No single method is definitive.