When would you use a DCF valuation as the primary method over comparable company analysis?
A core Valuation interview question — asked in analyst and associate interviews across IB, PE, and the Big 4.
THE SHORT ANSWER
I'd use DCF as the primary method when the company has unique cash flow drivers that aren't reflected in peers, such as a differentiated business model, early-stage growth, or cyclical trough earnings. DCF is also preferred in a valuation context like a merger or LBO where control assumptions matter. Comparables are more reliable when there are many similar, well-priced peers. DCF gives a standalone intrinsic value, while comps reflect market sentiment. If peer multiples are distorted by temporary factors, DCF becomes the primary method.
WHAT INTERVIEWERS LISTEN FOR
- ✓Unique cash flow drivers not captured by peers
- ✓Control context (M&A, LBO) where projections matter
- ✓Market multiples distorted by temporary factors
- ✓Intrinsic vs relative valuation
COMMON MISTAKES
- ✗Using DCF as primary for a commodity business with many peers
- ✗Claiming DCF always gives the true value
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