The value of an asset as it appears on a company's balance sheet, equal to cost minus accumulated depreciation.

Book Value is a fundamental financial concept in both accounting and corporate finance. It represents the total value of a company if it were to be liquidated and all liabilities settled, based on the value recorded in the company's books. Essentially, book value is calculated by subtracting total liabilities from total assets of a company. Here are some of the key aspects of book value that are important for anyone in business to understand:

1. Asset Valuation: Book value gives an estimate of the company's worth if all its assets were sold and liabilities paid off today. It includes tangible assets like buildings, machinery, inventories, and intangible ones like patents and trademarks, at their respective book values.
2. Balance Sheet Component: Book value is a component of the balance sheet, falling under shareholder's equity. It is calculated by subtracting total liabilities from total assets.
3. Investor Indicator: Book value is often used by investors to determine whether a stock is undervalued or overpriced. If a company's book value per share is less than its market value per share, it may be considered undervalued, and vice versa.
4. Limitations: Book value has its limitations as it is based on historical cost, not the current market value. It may not accurately reflect the company's true value, especially for businesses with significant intangible assets or potential liabilities.
5. Book Value vs Market Value: Book value represents the net asset value of a company according to its balance sheet, whereas market value is the value of a company as perceived by stock market investors. The two can differ significantly.

Understanding book value is essential for any business as it provides a fundamental measure of a company's net worth, its potential liquidation value, and serves as a baseline for valuation in investment decisions.