Face Value

Face value, also known as par value or nominal value, is the amount stated on a financial instrument such as a bond, stock, or currency note. It represents the original worth assigned to the instrument when it was first issued, and is used to calculate interest payments, dividends, and other financial metrics. It is important to note that the face value of an instrument does not necessarily reflect its current market value, which can fluctuate based on factors such as interest rates, market demand, and the financial performance of the issuing entity.

1. Bonds: In the case of bonds, face value is the amount of money that the bond issuer agrees to pay the bondholder at the maturity date. During the life of the bond, the bondholder receives periodic interest payments (also called coupon payments) based on the face value and the coupon rate. For example, if a bond has a face value of $1,000 and a coupon rate of 5%, the bondholder will receive $50 (5% of $1,000) in interest payments each year. The bond's market value can be higher or lower than its face value, depending on factors such as prevailing interest rates and the creditworthiness of the issuer.
2. Stocks: In the context of stocks or shares, face value is the nominal value assigned to each share by the issuing company. It is used to calculate certain financial metrics, such as the company's market capitalization and the dividend payments to shareholders. Face value is often set at a relatively low amount (e.g., $1 or $0.01 per share) and typically has little to do with the stock's market price, which is determined by factors such as the company's financial performance, market demand, and investor sentiment.
3. Currency: For currency notes or coins, face value is the amount of money represented by the note or coin. It is the legal tender value assigned by the issuing authority, such as a central bank or government, and is used for conducting transactions and settling debts.

In summary, face value is the nominal value assigned to a financial instrument when it is first issued. It is used to calculate interest payments, dividends, and other financial metrics, but it does not necessarily reflect the current market value of the instrument, which can fluctuate based on various factors.

See Also

• IT Strategy (Information Technology Strategy)
• IT Governance
• Enterprise Architecture
• Chief Information Officer (CIO)
• IT Sourcing (Information Technology Sourcing)
• IT Operations (Information Technology Operations)
• E-Strategy