Honest question.
We talk a lot about intrinsic value, margin of safety, and fair price. It sounds great in theory. But I sometimes wonder how useful it is in practice for regular investors.
On one hand, having a rough idea of what a business might be worth feels grounding. It stops me from chasing hype. On the other hand, every model depends on assumptions, and assumptions can be wrong.
I have gone back and forth on this. Sometimes intrinsic value gives me confidence. Sometimes it just reminds me how uncertain the future really is.
For those who use it regularly, how do you think about it. Do you rely on the number, or do you treat it more like a sanity check.
Would love to hear real experiences, not textbook answers.