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Time Value of Money: Beyond Dollars and Cents

  • Writer: Shripathy Suresh
    Shripathy Suresh
  • May 4, 2024
  • 2 min read

Updated: Dec 14, 2024

Mind map for TVM


Ever wondered why a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush? It’s not just a saying; it’s the Time Value of Money (TVM) Principle. While seemingly removed from operations, marketing or analytics, understanding TVM can unlock powerful insights.

Let’s consider launching a marketing campaign today generates an immediate ROI, but delaying it by a year sacrifices that potential return. Money’s value diminishes over time. ⌛

🔑Key concepts:


  • Time Value of Money (TVM): Money has a greater value today than in the future due to its potential to earn a return over time ⏱️

  • Future Value of Money (FV): The value of money in the future considering its potential growth through interest or investment 💵

  • Present Value of Money (PV): The current worth of a future sum of money, considering the TVM💸

  • Return on Investment (ROI): The current worth f a future sum of money, considering the time value of money 📊

  • Opportunity Cost: The potential benefit given up to pursue another option


How does TVM translate to your work?


  • Operations: Evaluate timelines, resource allocation, and prioritizing projects based on their future value 🏭

  • Marketing: Optimize campaign budgets and timing by understanding the time value of potential returns. 📈

  • Analytics: Factor in the time value of future cash flows for more accurate financial forecasts and data-driven decisions 🖥️


Mastering TVM doesn’t require complex calculations (basic knowledge of MS Excel with basic knowledge in TVM would be helpful), the basic principles would also empower you to:


  • Make better financial decisions with a future-oriented perspective.

  • Improve communication and collaboration by translating financial concepts into practical insights.

  • Gain a competitive edge by applying financial knowledge to your core skills.


💭Share your thoughts in the comments below! Have you encountered situations where understanding TVM have been beneficial in your work?



 
 
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