On decomposing net final values: EVA, SVA, and shadow project

A residual-income model, named Systemic Value Added (SVA), is proposed for decision-making purposes, based on a systemic approach introduced in Magni (2000, 2003, 2004). The model translates the notion of residual income (excess profit) giving formal expression to a counterfactual alternative available to the decision maker. Relations with other residual income models are studied, among which Stewart's Economic Value Added. The index here introduced differs from EVA in that it rests on a different interpretation of the notion of excess profit and is formally connected with the EVA model by means of a shadow project. The SVA is formally and conceptually threefold, in that it is economic, financial, accounting-flavoured. Some results are offered, providing su±cient and necessary conditions for decomposing Net Final Values. Relations between a project's SVA and its shadow project's EVA are shown, all results of Pressacco and Stucchi (1997) are proved by making use of the systemic approach and the shadow counterparts of those results are also shown.