Net Present Value (NPV) is a fundamental concept in finance that plays a vital role in investment analysis and decision making. NPV is used to evaluate the profitability of an investment by comparing the present value of its expected cash flows to the initial cost of the investment. Calculating NPV involves discounting all future cash flows generated by an investment back to their present value using a predetermined discount rate. If the NPV of an investment is positive, it indicates that the investment is expected to generate returns higher than the required rate of return. On the other hand, a negative NPV suggests that the investment is not financially viable. NPV is a valuable tool for businesses and individuals to assess the potential returns and risks associated with an investment. By understanding and applying NPV in financial decision making, investors can make more informed choices and maximize their returns.