Master Financial Valuation Methods That Actually Work

Learn practical DCF modeling, comparable analysis, and precedent transactions from professionals who've valued companies across emerging markets. Our approach focuses on real-world applications rather than theoretical concepts.

Explore Learning Programs

Compare Core Valuation Approaches

Each methodology serves different purposes depending on market conditions, data availability, and company characteristics. Understanding when to apply each approach is crucial for accurate analysis.

DCF

Discounted Cash Flow

Projects future cash flows and discounts them to present value. Most useful for mature companies with predictable revenue streams and established market positions.

CMP

Comparable Companies

Analyzes trading multiples of similar public companies. Works well when sufficient comparable companies exist in the same industry and geographic market.

PRC

Precedent Transactions

Examines recent acquisition multiples in similar deals. Particularly valuable for M&A scenarios and when assessing takeover premiums.

Your Learning Journey Through 2025

Foundation Phase

Build solid understanding of financial statement analysis, cash flow forecasting, and basic valuation principles. This phase typically takes 8-10 weeks of focused study.

Application Phase

Apply methods to real case studies from South African and international markets. Practice with companies from mining, retail, and financial services sectors.

Advanced Techniques

Learn specialized approaches for emerging market companies, resource-based businesses, and high-growth technology firms common in the regional economy.

Professional Integration

Develop presentation skills and learn to communicate valuation conclusions effectively to different stakeholder groups including executives and investors.

Common Questions About Valuation Training

These questions come up frequently during our information sessions and from professionals considering skill development.

Which valuation method should I learn first? +

Most professionals benefit from starting with comparable company analysis because it provides immediate market context. DCF modeling comes next as it builds deeper analytical skills. The sequence depends on your current experience level and immediate work requirements.

How do emerging market factors affect valuations? +

Country risk, currency volatility, and limited comparable data create unique challenges. Our curriculum specifically addresses these issues with examples from South African markets and practical approaches for data-scarce environments.

What software tools do professional analysts use? +

Excel remains the foundation for most valuation work, supplemented by Bloomberg, Capital IQ, or FactSet for data collection. We focus on Excel proficiency since it's universally accessible and allows complete transparency in model construction.

How long does it take to become proficient? +

Basic competency typically develops within 6-8 months of consistent practice. Advanced proficiency, including ability to handle complex situations confidently, usually requires 12-18 months depending on your starting background and time investment.

Learn from Experienced Practitioners

Real-world expertise from the field

Our instructors combine academic knowledge with practical experience from investment banking, corporate finance, and consulting roles. Zelda Thornberry brings 15 years of experience valuing companies across multiple sectors, including recent work on several JSE-listed transactions.

Meet Our Team