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Discover the Sum-of-the-Parts Valuation Model to understand how businesses are valued by assessing each segment independently.
Sum of the Parts (SOTP) valuation is a method used to estimate the value of a diversified company by valuing each of its individual business segments separately. Instead of applying a single valuation multiple to the entire organisation, this approach acknowledges that different divisions often operate in different industries, growth stages, or risk environments. The combined values of these segments create a clearer picture of a company’s overall worth.
SOTP valuation refers to a technique where each business unit within a company is valued independently and then added together to find the total value of the firm. It is widely used for multi-segment companies, conglomerates, and firms with both high-growth and mature divisions.
Each segment is valued using the most appropriate method
The total company value is the sum of all individual segment values
Non-operating assets such as cash or investments are added separately
Debt or other liabilities are deducted at the end
Helps analysts identify hidden value within complex organisations
This method provides a more accurate picture than traditional single-multiple valuations when business divisions vary significantly.
SOTP valuation is especially useful for companies where the market price may not fully reflect the intrinsic worth of every segment. It helps uncover both undervalued and overvalued parts of the business.
Highlights value hidden within diversified business structures
Helps analyse the contribution of individual divisions
Useful for mergers, acquisitions, restructuring, and spin-off decisions
Clarifies which business segments are driving growth
Supports more accurate strategic planning and investor communication
Analysts often use SOTP valuation for companies involved in telecommunications, technology, energy, or consumer conglomerates.
The model breaks down the company into its operating units and applies the most suitable valuation approach to each one. These may include discounted cash flow (DCF), multiples such as EV/EBITDA, price-to-earnings ratios, or asset-based calculations.
Identify all business segments and classify them based on activity
Select the appropriate valuation method for each unit
Apply relevant industry multiples or forecast cash flows
Add the standalone values of all divisions
Include excess cash, investments, or non-core assets
Deduct debt, obligations, or other liabilities
Arrive at the net equity value of the company
SOTP valuation relies on several assumptions, such as:
Each division can be valued independently
Industry-specific multiples remain appropriate throughout analysis
Segment-level financial data is available and reliable
Synergies or shared costs do not distort the final results
These assumptions can influence the final valuation, making transparency important when presenting outcomes.
SOTP analysis involves interpreting the individual valuations to understand how each segment affects overall value. This allows investors or decision-makers to identify strong and weak areas within the company.
Review each segment’s valuation range
Compare segment values with industry peers
Identify divisions that contribute the most or least to total value
Evaluate whether certain units are undervalued or overvalued
Assess the impact of synergies, shared resources, or common costs
Determine whether restructuring or strategic changes may unlock value
Imagine a company with three segments:
Retail division valued at ₹15,000 crore
Logistics division valued at ₹6,000 crore
Digital services division valued at ₹10,000 crore
If the company also holds ₹1,000 crore in cash and ₹5,000 crore in debt:
Total SOTP value =
Retail (₹15,000) + Logistics (₹6,000) + Digital Services (₹10,000) + Cash (₹1,000) – Debt (₹5,000)
= ₹27,000 crore
This helps illustrate how segment values relate to overall company value.
Before using SOTP valuation, it’s important to understand its strengths and limitations:
| Aspect | Advantages | Limitations |
|---|---|---|
Accuracy |
More precise for diversified companies |
Requires detailed segment data |
Insight |
Shows which units drive value |
May overlook shared costs or synergies |
Strategy |
Useful for M&A, spin-offs, restructuring |
Values can vary depending on methods used |
Flexibility |
Allows tailored valuation per industry |
Time-consuming and complex |
SOTP valuation is highly informative but depends heavily on the quality of inputs and assumptions.
SOTP valuation helps uncover the estimated total value of companies with multiple business lines by valuing each unit individually. It provides clarity on how different segments contribute to the company’s overall strength and highlights strategic opportunities for unlocking value. While the method is detailed and sometimes complex, it offers a more nuanced view than traditional valuation techniques, especially for diversified or evolving organisations.
Key points to remember:
SOTP valuation values each business unit separately to reveal true company worth.
It shows how every segment supports overall financial strength.
It highlights value-unlocking opportunities through restructuring or divestment.
It offers deeper insight than single-metric valuation methods.
It is commonly applied to diversified or fast-evolving companies.
This content is for informational purposes only and the same should not be construed as investment advice. Bajaj Finserv Direct Limited shall not be liable or responsible for any investment decision that you may take based on this content.
It is a valuation approach where each business segment of a company is valued independently, and the combined values form the total worth of the firm.
It is often applied in diversified companies, conglomerates, or firms with multiple revenue-generating units that operate in different industries.
Each business unit is valued separately using appropriate methods, non-operating assets are added, and liabilities are deducted to arrive at net value.
It requires detailed financial information and depends on assumptions that may vary across industries or economic conditions.
It is typically applied to companies with clearly defined segments. For single-segment firms, traditional valuation methods may be more appropriate.
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Posted on 19 Dec
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