O'Reilly Is a Masterful Lottery Player

question 108

Essay

O'Reilly is a masterful lottery player. The megamillion jackpot is now up to $200 million. If O'Reilly wins the jackpot, he has a choice of receiving $200 million in 5 years or a smaller lump sum currently. Advise O'Reilly on his choice under the following scenarios. Which option should he take and why?
Use Exhibit 3.1.
a. O'Reilly's after-tax return is 10%. If he chooses the current lump sum option, the lottery will pay him $130 million.
b. O'Reilly's after-tax return is 10%. His current tax rate will be 35% if he receives the lottery payment now. His expected tax rate in five years will be 40%. If he chooses the current lump sum option, the lottery will pay him $100 million.

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Definitions:

Sherman Antitrust Act

A landmark federal statute in the United States passed in 1890 that prohibits certain business activities that federal government regulators deem to be anti-competitive.

Standard Oil Trust

A historical example of a corporate monopoly in the United States, established by John D. Rockefeller to control oil production and prices.

Corporate Takeovers

The acquisition of one company, called the target company, by another, referred to as the acquiring company.

Financial Defenses

Strategies and measures implemented by individuals, companies, or countries to protect financial assets and income against risks and volatility.