Adams Inc Expects EBIT of $50 Million If There Is a a Recession

question 34

Essay

Adams Inc. expects EBIT of $50 million if there is a recession, $100 million if the economy is normal, and $150 million if the economy expands. Bellingham Inc. also expects EBIT of $50 million if there is a recession, $100 million if the economy is normal, and $150 million if the economy expands. Adams is financed entirely with equity while Bellingham is financed 50% with debt at 10%. Adams has $200 million in equity; Bellingham is financed with $100 million of debt and $100 million of equity. The tax rate is 30%. Both firms pay out all available earnings as dividends. If there is a recession, compare dividends and total distributions to investors for each company.

---

Definitions:

Regressive Tax

A tax imposed in such a manner that the tax rate decreases as the amount subject to taxation increases, disproportionately affecting those with lower incomes.

Benefits Tax

A taxation principle where taxes are levied according to the benefits received by the taxpayer.

Proportional

Characterized by a constant ratio or relation in degree or number between two or more quantities; directly comparative in size, degree, or amount.

Progressive

Pertaining to a tax system where the tax rate increases as the taxable base amount increases, often aimed at ensuring fairness in taxation.