[demian]

But if they create wealth, isn't the "cost center" label outdated?

[marcosdumay]

Well, both this label was always meaningless (not "outdated", as this would imply it was ever worth something), and all parts of a company are expected to create wealth.

The reframing of the discussion as about competitive advantage is a good one.

[ucaetano]

No, "cost center" is an accounting term. "create wealth" is an economic term. One does not exclude the other.

[demian]

Thank you for the clarification.