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How to Improve Your Finance Skills (Even If You Hate Numbers)

Harvard Business Review

If you’re not a numbers person, finance is daunting. “If you can speak the language of money, you will be more successful,” he says. Stop avoiding finance because you’re afraid of numbers. Think of it this way, “Finance is the way businesses keep score. Overcome your fears. Related Video.

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Old Buildings Are U.S. Cities’ Biggest Sustainability Challenge

Harvard Business Review

Today large commercial buildings address only two percent per year of the NPV-positive investments in efficiency that are available to them. This is especially true in the commercial buildings market, specifically large commercial buildings, where well over 75 percent of existing buildings will still be in use in fifteen years’ time.

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Case Study: Should a Hotelier Invest in a New Kind of Online Travel Agency?

Harvard Business Review

” “I have Carly running the ROI — both short-term and long-term,” he said, referring to Carly Janssen, his finance director, “but I have to say that I find it intriguing. But we’ve had great success so far. ” Negative NPV. Are you willing to bet 8 million euros on it?”

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Stop Focusing on Profitability and Go for Growth

Harvard Business Review

So, in real terms, debt financing is essentially free. Next time you're deciding about a big investment, NPV can help you make a more informed decision. Companies that are successful in fueling growth lower hurdle rates and relax other constraints that reflect a bygone era of scarce capital. Related Video.

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