tianxin

If I remember this accurately, It doesn't include cash, cash equivalents and investments. It would actually include other working capital.

The reason why it doesn't include cash and cash equivalents in because when you acquire the company those funds are then available to be paid out or used. If you pay 20 bucks to get 20 bucks, then you didn't really pay for anything.

As for the investments, it's because they signify a claim on assets which are already consolidated into other companies. They aren't really part of the EV of the firm. There are probably arguments for including it, but it won't be on the exam.