The Expected Returns for Stocks A, B, C, D, and E

question 53

Multiple Choice

The expected returns for Stocks A, B, C, D, and E are 7%, 10%, 12%, 25%, and 18% respectively. The corresponding standard deviations for these stocks are 12%, 18%, 15%, 23%, and 15% respectively. Based on their coefficients of variation, which of the securities is least risky for an investor? Assume all investors are risk-averse and the investments will be held in isolation.

• A) A
• B) B
• C) C
• D) D
• E) E

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Definitions:

Fixed Overhead Costs

Indirect expenses of running a business that are not affected by changes in the volume of goods or services produced, such as rent, salaries, and insurance.

Overhead Costs

Ongoing expenses related to the operation of a business, such as rent, utilities, and insurance, that are not directly tied to production.

Overhead Volume Variance

The difference between allocated overhead based on standard hours allowed and the actual overhead incurred, reflecting efficiency in utilizing resources.

Normal Capacity Hours

A calculation of the maximum amount of work that an organization can complete in a given period under normal conditions.