Use forward looking multiple for terminal multiple in a dcf?

Hi All.
So I know that in a DCF you use comps multiple average as the terminal multiple for your modelling target. I'm just wondering if we should use forward-looking multiples or current multiples? If we use forward-looking, should we use the one after 5 years to match with the time that DCF projects?

Thanks.

 
Best Response
VictarionGreyjoy:

o I know that in a DCF you use comps multiple average as the terminal multiple for your modelling target.

Well, no, you use a multiple that you feel is appropriate.

VictarionGreyjoy:

I'm just wondering if we should use forward-looking multiples or current multiples? If we use forward-looking, should we use the one after 5 years to match with the time that DCF projects?

There's no correct answer. On the one hand, using current multiples -- which embed growth assumptions -- for an EBITDA figure 5-10 years out is a bit of double-counting of growth and will likely generate too high a value. On the other hand, cutting the multiple too much will result in too low a value as you are already discounting back your terminal year value. It really depends on the company and/or industry.

I also think you are misunderstanding forward multiples. When you see a 7.5x 2017E multiple, for example, that is not a prediction of what the multiple will be in a year -- just a representation of what you are paying today for future earnings. That's different from choosing an exit multiple, where you are making a guess as to how the market will value a company in x years based on its continued growth and margin potential at that time.

 

What's the difference between a forward multiple and a present multiple? Is there such a thing as a current multiple? Sorry for stupidity...

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