Using the Earnings Power Value framework with a WACC of 8.0% and normalized earnings of $6.3B, Linde plc has a fair value of $120.43 per share. The EPV range is $93.99 – $159.08 based on WACC sensitivity (6.5% – 9.5%).
| Low | Selected | High | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Normalized Earnings | 6,262 | 6,262 | 6,262 |
| (/) WACC | 9.5% | 8.0% | 6.5% |
| Enterprise Value | 65,988 | 78,377 | 96,494 |
| (-) Net debt | 21,933 | 21,933 | 21,933 |
| Equity Value | 44,055 | 56,444 | 74,561 |
| (/) Outstanding shares | 469 | 469 | 469 |
| Fair Price | $93.99 | $120.43 | $159.08 |
Earnings Power Value (EPV) estimates what a company is worth based on its current normalized earnings, assuming zero growth. It values the business as a perpetuity: Normalized Earnings / WACC. This gives a conservative floor value — the company's worth if it never grows but maintains its current profitability.
The model normalizes earnings by: (1) using sustainable gross margins (5-year average) applied to current revenue, (2) deducting maintenance-level operating expenses (average R&D + SG&A as % of revenue), (3) applying the average effective tax rate, and (4) subtracting the average excess of CapEx over D&A (net reinvestment needed to maintain current capacity).
EPV is most useful as a comparison anchor: if the market price is below EPV, the stock may be undervalued even without any growth. If market price exceeds EPV, the premium reflects growth expectations — which may or may not materialize.