While book value reflects what a business is worth according to its financials (its books), market value is the worth of a company according to financial markets – also known as its market capitalization. The calculation for market value is the current market price per share multiplied by the total number of outstanding shares.

Blue-chip stocks are the shares of companies that are reputable, financially stable and long-established within their sector. Over time, the companies that are considered blue-chip tend to change, so the exact definition of what is required for blue-chip status can be vague. However, a company that is considered blue-chip will tend to be at or near the very top of its sector, feature on a recognized index, and have a well-known brand.

Brent crude – also referred to as Brent blend – is one of three major oil benchmarks used by those trading oil contracts, futures, and derivatives. The other two major benchmarks are West Texas Intermediate (WTI) and Dubai/Oman, though there are many smaller oil varieties traded as well.

A company’s bottom line is an important factor in share trading. Variously, it can be used to refer to the net earnings or earnings per share (EPS) of a business.