Why is goodwill recorded at market value?

Goodwill occurs when one company acquires another, but pays more than the fair market value of the net assets. When one company acquires another, the goal is to increase the value of the company as a combined firm. The price the buyer pays will tend to exceed the total market value of the acquired company.

The difference between the market value and the price paid is referred to as goodwill, and needs to be known in order to keep the books balanced for the company. Goodwill is classified as an intangible asset on the balance sheet.