Investment dictionary

LAST IN, FIRST OUT LIFO

Last In, First Out - LIFO: translation

An asset-management and valuation method that assumes that assets produced or acquired last are the ones that are used, sold or disposed of first.

LIFO assumes that an entity sells, uses or disposes of its newest inventory first. If an asset is sold for less than it is acquired for, then the difference is considered a capital loss. If an asset is sold for more than it is acquired for, the difference is considered a capital gain. Using the LIFO method to evaluate and manage inventory can be tax advantageous, but it may also increase tax liability.