Meaning
Process of determining the minimum acceptable rate of return for a new capital investment or project. Through hurdle rate selection, a management team sets the benchmark that any new production facility or equipment purchase must exceed to be considered viable. This rate usually accounts for the cost of capital plus a risk premium specific to the venture.
Benchmark Establishment
Finance departments use the weighted average cost of capital as a starting point for this calculation. Effective hurdle rate selection ensures that the company only pursues projects that add value to the business after all costs are covered. It functions as a filter for competing capital requests.
Risk Adjustment
Different types of projects require different levels of expected return based on their uncertainty. During hurdle rate selection, a high risk pilot project might be assigned a much higher target than a standard equipment replacement. This differentiation prevents the firm from over investing in speculative technology.
Capital Allocation
Portfolio management depends on the consistent application of these targets across all divisions. Poor hurdle rate selection leads to the waste of resources on low yield activities while more profitable opportunities are ignored. The chosen rate must be reviewed periodically to reflect changes in market interest rates.