Show How Leverage Increases Financial Risk by Calculating the EPS

question 88

Essay

Show how leverage increases financial risk by calculating the EPS and return on shares for a firm with $1 million in 10% debt. The firm also has 50,000 shares outstanding that sell for $40 each. Three states of the economy are possible: a slump under which the firm would have operating income of $150,000, a normal state under which the firm will earn $420,000, and a boom under which the firm will earn $600,000. The firm pays no taxes.

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Definitions:

Financing Commitment

An assurance provided by a lender indicating the terms under which they agree to lend money to a borrower.

First Mortgage

A primary lien on a property that has precedence over all other claims or liens in the event of default or sale.

Mortgage Assignment

The transfer of a mortgage from one party to another, either for the benefit of changing lenders or selling the debt to another entity.

Reed Bank

A submerged reef in the South China Sea, known for its disputed territorial claims and rich natural resources.