Ensikustannus

Ensikustannus is a Finnish term used in economics and business to denote the upfront or initial cost of a project, asset purchase, or implementation. It refers to the cash outlay required before the asset is ready to operate, as opposed to ongoing expenses.

The scope of ensikustannus includes the purchase price, delivery and handling, installation, configuration, and integration with existing systems, as well as training, licenses, permits, and any required working capital at the start of the project. It typically excludes recurring costs such as maintenance, energy, and salaries, though some one-time prepaid items may be allocated to the first period.

In financial planning, ensikustannus is important for budgeting, cash flow analysis, and investment appraisal. It is commonly treated as capital expenditure (CapEx) and may be depreciated over the asset’s useful life. The size of the initial cost affects payback period, net present value, and internal rate of return, and it influences decisions about financing and project viability.

Usage and context: the term appears in Finnish financial reporting, project planning, and procurement discussions. It is often contrasted with operating expenses (opex) and with total cost of ownership (TCO). Understanding the ensikustannus helps stakeholders evaluate the immediate cash requirements and long-term value of a purchase or initiative.