The Cost Decision: A New Discount Approach for Net Cost Projects

This discussion paper proposes a new decision rule for economic investment theory, the Cost Decision, and describes a new discount approach for Net Cost Projects and the Net Present Cost Formula. The paper illustrates the problems faced internationally, at all levels of government, of assessing Net Cost Projects from a finance perspective. The paper discusses the Cost Decision in the controversial context of public-private partnerships and compares the four main alternative approaches to the Cost Decision currently used in practice. The paper is also relevant when analysing Net Cost Projects undertaken by private sector entities and individuals.