To illustrate the mechanics of this example, consider the hypothetical case presented in Exhibit 4. Suppose an individual has the opportunity to invest $50 million in a business—this is its cost or book value. This business will throw off cash at the rate of 20% of its investment base each year. Suppose that instead of receiving any dividends, the owner decides to reinvest all cash flow back into the business—at this rate, the book value of the business will grow at 20% per year. Suppose that the investor plans to sell the business for its book value at the end of the fifth year. Does this investment create value for the individual? One determines this by discounting the future cash flows to the present at a cost of equity of 15%. Suppose that this is the investor’s opportunity cost, the required return that could have been earned elsewhere at comparable risk. Dividing the present value of future cash flows (i.e., Buffett’s intrinsic value) by the cost of the investment (i.e., Buffett’s book value) indicates that every dollar invested buys securities worth $1.23. Value is created.
Consider an opposing case, summarized in Exhibit 5. The example is similar in all respects except for one key difference: the annual return on the investment is 10%. The result is that every dollar invested buys securities worth $0.80. Value is destroyed.