Core Insights - The article discusses various methods for sell-side analysts to determine a company's fair value, highlighting the complexities and biases associated with each method [1] Valuation Methods - The DCF (Discounted Cash Flow) method is likened to building a complex LEGO set, where numerous assumptions can lead to biases such as overconfidence, hindsight bias, and anchoring [1] - The multiples-based approach compares a company with its peers, but it assumes that those peers are fairly priced, which historical data suggests is often not the case [1] - A mixed approach typically weights 70% DCF and 30% multiples, but may not provide a clear picture of value [1] Reverse Valuation - Reverse valuation starts with the market price and discount rate, working backward to uncover the free cash flow assumptions embedded in the current valuation [1] - This method serves as a reality check, allowing analysts to compare market-implied expectations with their own views, identifying whether stock prices are driven by optimism or skepticism [1] Free Cash Flow to Equity (FCFE) - The FCFE model simplifies the valuation process for equity shareholders, focusing on what shareholders can actually receive [1] - The formula for FCFE includes reported earnings (excluding one-time gains/losses), amortization costs, CAPEX, and average acquisition costs, while ignoring working capital changes and net borrowings [1] - The approach emphasizes three key numbers: earnings available for distribution, amortization costs, and CAPEX, which helps to eliminate noise in valuation [1] Forecasting FCFE - The H model is used for forecasting FCFE, which is a two-stage growth model assuming a normalization phase of 10 years with a decreasing growth rate [1] - The final growth rate is typically aligned with the risk-free rate (RFR), which is based on the 10-year yield of government bonds [1] - All cash flows are discounted using the Cost of Equity, calculated as RFR multiplied by a 5-year beta plus an equity risk premium (ERP) of 5% [1]