valehinnangu

Valehinnangu is an Estonian term referring to a false price estimation or mispricing in commercial contexts. The word combines vale meaning false and hinnang meaning estimation or assessment. In Estonian usage it denotes the act of presenting or documenting a price that does not reflect the true cost, value, or terms of a transaction, whether intentional or negligent. The concept appears in discussions of consumer protection, advertising standards, and pricing ethics.

In law and regulation, false price representations are typically treated as unfair commercial practices or misrepresentations. Estonian consumer protection law addresses misleading prices, deceptive advertising, and failure to disclose essential price components. Authorities may require corrections, withdraw offers, or impose penalties on businesses that practice valehinnangu.

Examples include showing a high initial price and later offering a "discount" that does not reflect a genuine price reduction, omitting compulsory charges from the displayed price, or quoting a price that depends on unclear conditions. Digital marketplaces and retail often encounter valehinnangu in product listings, quotes, or cart totals.

See also: price transparency, misrepresentation, consumer protection, Estonian law, commercial ethics.