Way back before there was a CNBC, its predecessor was FNN (Financial News Network). Late 80s, early 90s.
There was this old gent who did commentary, mostly on bonds - Ed Hart. I’ll never forget a discussion he was having with someone about some company’s “worth.” He noted that “worth” was not an accurate term to use - the proper phrase was “presently valued at.” It always changes.
It’s an important economic concept that often lost or flat denied. Artistic “worth,” moral “worth,” and practical “worth” are all concepts we can discuss philosophically or emotionally, but economic worth is what someone will give you, in a free exchange, right now.
The dress I’m wearing was “worth” about $40 when someone bought it new at Dress Barn. When she donated it to The Salvation Army, it was worth zero. When I bought it at The Salvation Army, it was worth $2.50.