USING REAL OPTIONS IN AN INVESTMENT VALUATION AND DECISION-MAKING PROCESSES

Abstract

The current stage of global development is characterized by opportunities for investment activity, along with an instability of the economic situation and high uncertainty, dictates the need for investors and managers to make effective decisions, taking into account constantly changing conditions. An investor, while making a decision which project to accept, for the most part, uses the standard methods of financial management as a basis for forecasting and analysis. Considering fast-moving processes of technology change, as well as the conditions of market uncertainty, significant risk and agency problems, the article proposes the use of real options as an insurance (hedging) tool for investors against risks at different stages of the investment project. Risk management can be carried out through real options - the tool of flexibility in decision making. Traditional assessment methods ignore the ability to adapt internal and external changes, however management flexibility can significantly reduce risks, and therefore create additional value.