An intangible asset is a non-physical asset owned by a company that has economic value and contributes to revenue generation or competitive advantage. Unlike tangible assets, it lacks physical substance yet can be an essential strategic element.
The main types of intangible assets include:
- Intellectual property: patents, trademarks, copyrights, designs and models.
- Software and technology: tools and systems developed or acquired.
- Human and organizational capital: know-how, skills and internal processes.
- Business and customer relationships: contracts, partnerships and networks.
- Goodwill and reputation: brand awareness and customer trust.
These assets must be identifiable, controllable, and capable of generating future economic benefits to be recognized and valued. When well managed, they represent a significant strategic lever for a company’s competitiveness and value creation.