Professional Documents
Culture Documents
• Identify some of the forces that will affect financial management in the
new millennium.
• State the primary goal in a publicly traded firm, and explain how social
responsibility and business ethics fit in with that goal.
Learning Objectives: 1 - 1
LECTURE SUGGESTIONS
Chapter 1 covers some important concepts, and discussing them in class can be
interesting. However, students can read the chapter on their own, so it can be
assigned but not covered in class.
We generally spend much of the first day going over the syllabus and
discussing grading and other mechanics relating to the course. To the extent
that time permits, we talk about the topics that will be covered in the course
and the structure of the book. We also discuss briefly the fact that it is
assumed that managers try to maximize stock prices, but that they may have
other goals, hence that it is useful to tie executive compensation to
stockholder-oriented performance measures. If time permits, we think it’s
worthwhile to spend at least a full day on the chapter. If not, we ask
students to read it on their own, and to keep them honest, we ask one or two
questions about the material on the first mid-term exam.
One point we emphasize in the first class is that students should get a
copy of Blueprints and a financial calculator immediately, and bring both to
class regularly. We also put copies of the various versions of our “Brief
Calculator Manual,” which in about 12 pages explains how to use the most
popular calculators, in the copy center. We want students to start learning to
use their calculators early, because in the past we have found that many
students wait to learn to use their calculators at the same time they are
trying to understand time value of money concepts. If students learn how to
use the calculator early, they are less likely to get confused by time value
concepts.
We are often asked what calculator students should buy. If they already
have a financial calculator that can find IRRs, we tell them that it will do,
but if they do not have one, we recommend either the HP-10B or 17B. Please see
the “Lecture Suggestions” for Chapter 7 for more on calculators.
Lecture Suggestions: 1 - 2
ANSWERS TO END-OF-CHAPTER QUESTIONS
1-2 No. The normal rate of return on investment would vary among industries,
principally due to varying risk. The normal rate of return would be
expected to change over time due to (1) underlying changes in the
industry and (2) business cycles.
1-3 An increase in the inflation rate would most likely increase the relative
importance of the financial manager. Virtually all of the manager’s
functions, from obtaining funds for the firm to internal cost accounting,
become more demanding in periods of high inflation. Usually, uncertainty
is also increased by inflation, and hence, the effects of a poor decision
are magnified.
1-5 Even though firms follow generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP),
there is still sufficient margin for firms to use different procedures.
Leasing and inventory accounting (LIFO versus FIFO) are two of the many
areas where procedural differences could complicate relative performance
measures.
1-7 Profit maximization abstracts from (1) the timing of profits and (2) the
riskiness of different operating plans. However, both of these factors
are reflected in stock price maximization. Thus, profit maximization
would not necessarily lead to stock price maximization.
c. Provided that the rate of return on assets exceeds the interest rate
on debt, greater use of debt will raise the expected rate of return on
stockholders’ equity. Also, the interest on debt is tax deductible
and this provides a further advantage. However, (1) greater use of
debt will have a negative impact on the stockholders if the company’s
return on assets falls below the cost of debt, and (2) increased use
of debt increases the chances of going bankrupt. The effects of debt
usage, called “financial leverage,” are spelled out in detail in the
chapter titled, “Capital Structure and Leverage.”
1-11 As the stock market becomes more volatile, the link between the stock
price and the management ability of senior executives is weakened.
Therefore, in this environment companies may choose to de-emphasize the
awarding of stock and stock options and rely more on bonuses and
performance shares that are tied to other performance measures besides
the company’s stock price. Moreover, in this environment it may be
harder to attract or retain top talent if the compensation is tied too
much to the company’s stock price.
b. The owners of TIAA-CREF are the individual teachers whose pensions are
invested with this group.
1-13 a. If the capital markets perceive the project as risky and therefore
increasing the firm’s risk, the value of the firm’s outstanding bonds
will decline--hurting the firm’s existing bondholders. Subsequently,
if management’s analysis of the project proves to be correct, the
value of the firm’s bonds should increase.
Firms that deal unfairly with creditors either lose access to the debt
markets or are saddled with high interest rates and restrictive
covenants, all of which are detrimental to shareholders.
1-14 a. Increasing corporate tax rates and reducing individual tax rates will
cause the firm to remain as an unincorporated partnership. In
addition to higher corporate tax rates, corporations are exposed to
double taxation.
1-15 Earnings per share in the current year will decline due to the cost of
the investment made in the current year and no significant performance
impact in the short run. However, the company’s stock price should
increase due to the significant cost savings expected in the future.
Take a Dive
Financial Management Overview
1-1 KATO SUMMERS OPENED TAKE A DIVE 17 YEARS AGO; THE STORE IS LOCATED IN
MALIBU, CALIFORNIA, AND SELLS SURFING-RELATED EQUIPMENT. TODAY, TAKE
A DIVE HAS 50 EMPLOYEES INCLUDING KATO AND HIS DAUGHTER AMBER, WHO
WORKS PART TIME IN THE STORE TO HELP PAY FOR HER COLLEGE EDUCATION.
KATO’S BUSINESS HAS BOOMED IN RECENT YEARS, AND HE IS LOOKING FOR
NEW WAYS TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF HIS INCREASING BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES.
ALTHOUGH KATO’S FORMAL BUSINESS TRAINING IS LIMITED, AMBER WILL SOON
GRADUATE WITH A DEGREE IN FINANCE. KATO HAS OFFERED HER THE
OPPORTUNITY TO JOIN THE BUSINESS AS A FULL-FLEDGED PARTNER. AMBER IS
INTERESTED, BUT SHE IS ALSO CONSIDERING OTHER CAREER OPPORTUNITIES IN
FINANCE.
RIGHT NOW, AMBER IS LEANING TOWARD STAYING WITH THE FAMILY
BUSINESS, PARTLY BECAUSE SHE THINKS IT FACES A NUMBER OF INTERESTING
CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES. AMBER IS PARTICULARLY INTERESTED IN
FURTHER EXPANDING THE BUSINESS AND THEN INCORPORATING IT. KATO IS
INTRIGUED BY HER IDEAS, BUT HE IS ALSO CONCERNED THAT HER PLANS MIGHT
CHANGE THE WAY IN WHICH HE DOES BUSINESS. IN PARTICULAR, KATO HAS A
STRONG COMMITMENT TO SOCIAL ACTIVISM, AND HE HAS ALWAYS TRIED TO
STRIKE A BALANCE BETWEEN WORK AND PLEASURE. HE IS WORRIED THAT THESE
GOALS WILL BE COMPROMISED IF THE COMPANY INCORPORATES AND BRINGS IN
OUTSIDE SHAREHOLDERS.
AMBER AND KATO PLAN TO TAKE A LONG WEEKEND OFF TO SIT DOWN AND
THINK ABOUT ALL OF THESE ISSUES. AMBER, WHO IS HIGHLY ORGANIZED, HAS
OUTLINED A SERIES OF QUESTIONS FOR THEM TO ADDRESS:
ANSWER: [SHOW S1-1 AND S1-2 HERE.] CAREER OPPORTUNITIES FOR FINANCE MAJORS
EXIST IN THREE INTERRELATED AREAS: (1) MONEY AND CAPITAL MARKETS,
WHICH DEALS WITH SECURITIES MARKETS AND FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS;
(2) INVESTMENTS, WHICH FOCUSES ON THE DECISIONS OF BOTH INDIVIDUAL AND
INSTITUTIONAL INVESTORS AS THEY CHOOSE SECURITIES FOR THEIR INVESTMENT
PORTFOLIOS; AND (3) FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT, OR “BUSINESS FINANCE,” WHICH
INVOLVES THE ACTUAL MANAGEMENT OF FIRMS.
IN THE MONEY AND CAPITAL MARKETS AREA, MANY FINANCE MAJORS GO TO
WORK FOR FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INCLUDING BANKS, INSURANCE COMPANIES,
MUTUAL FUNDS, AND INVESTMENT BANKING FIRMS. FINANCE GRADUATES WHO GO
INTO INVESTMENTS OFTEN WORK FOR A BROKERAGE HOUSE EITHER IN SALES OR
AS A SECURITY ANALYST. OTHERS WORK FOR BANKS, MUTUAL FUNDS, OR
INSURANCE COMPANIES IN THE MANAGEMENT OF THEIR INVESTMENT PORTFOLIOS;
FOR FINANCIAL CONSULTING FIRMS THAT ADVISE INDIVIDUAL INVESTORS OR
PENSION FUNDS ON HOW TO INVEST THEIR FUNDS; FOR AN INVESTMENT BANK
WHOSE PRIMARY FUNCTION IS TO HELP BUSINESSES RAISE NEW CAPITAL; OR AS
A FINANCIAL PLANNER WHOSE JOB IS TO HELP INDIVIDUALS DEVELOP LONG-TERM
FINANCIAL GOALS AND PORTFOLIOS. THE JOB OPPORTUNITIES IN FINANCIAL
MANAGEMENT RANGE FROM MAKING DECISIONS REGARDING PLANT EXPANSIONS TO
CHOOSING WHAT TYPES OF SECURITIES TO ISSUE TO FINANCE EXPANSION.
FINANCIAL MANAGERS ALSO HAVE THE RESPONSIBILITY FOR DECIDING THE
CREDIT TERMS UNDER WHICH CUSTOMERS MAY BUY, HOW MUCH INVENTORY THE
FIRM SHOULD CARRY, HOW MUCH CASH TO KEEP ON HAND, WHETHER TO ACQUIRE
OTHER FIRMS, AND HOW MUCH OF THE FIRM’S EARNINGS TO PLOW BACK INTO THE
BUSINESS VERSUS TO PAY OUT AS DIVIDENDS.
ANSWER: [SHOW S1-3 AND S1-4 HERE.] THE FINANCIAL MANAGER’S TASK IS TO ACQUIRE
AND USE FUNDS SO AS TO MAXIMIZE THE FIRM’S VALUE. SPECIFIC ACTIVITIES
INCLUDE: (1) FORECASTING AND PLANNING, (2) MAKING MAJOR INVESTMENT AND
FINANCING DECISIONS, (3) COORDINATING AND CONTROLLING, (4) DEALING
WITH THE FINANCIAL MARKETS, AND (5) MANAGING RISK.
ANSWER: [SHOW S1-5 AND S1-6 HERE.] THE FOCUS ON VALUE MAXIMIZATION CONTINUES
AS WE BEGIN THE 21st CENTURY. HOWEVER, TWO OTHER TRENDS HAVE BECOME
INCREASINGLY IMPORTANT IN RECENT YEARS: THE GLOBALIZATION OF BUSINESS
AND THE INCREASED USE OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY. THESE TRENDS WILL
UNDOUBTEDLY CONTINUE IN THE YEARS AHEAD.
ANSWER: [SHOW S1-7 HERE.] THE THREE MAIN FORMS OF BUSINESS ORGANIZATION ARE
(1) SOLE PROPRIETORSHIPS, (2) PARTNERSHIPS, AND (3) CORPORATIONS.
ANSWER: [SHOW S1-10 AND S1-11 HERE.] THE CORPORATION’S PRIMARY GOAL IS
STOCKHOLDER WEALTH MAXIMIZATION, WHICH TRANSLATES TO MAXIMIZING THE
PRICE OF THE FIRM’S COMMON STOCK.
ANSWER: THE SAME ACTIONS THAT MAXIMIZE STOCK PRICES ALSO BENEFIT SOCIETY.
STOCK PRICE MAXIMIZATION REQUIRES EFFICIENT, LOW-COST OPERATIONS THAT
PRODUCE HIGH-QUALITY GOODS AND SERVICES AT THE LOWEST POSSIBLE COST.
STOCK PRICE MAXIMIZATION REQUIRES THE DEVELOPMENT OF PRODUCTS AND
SERVICES THAT CONSUMERS WANT AND NEED, SO THE PROFIT MOTIVE LEADS TO
NEW TECHNOLOGY, TO NEW PRODUCTS, AND TO NEW JOBS. ALSO, STOCK PRICE
MAXIMIZATION NECESSITATES EFFICIENT AND COURTEOUS SERVICE, ADEQUATE
STOCKS OF MERCHANDISE, AND WELL-LOCATED BUSINESS ESTABLISHMENTS--
FACTORS THAT ARE ALL NECESSARY TO MAKE SALES, WHICH ARE NECESSARY FOR
PROFITS.
ANSWER: YES. EXECUTIVES OF MOST MAJOR FIRMS IN THE UNITED STATES BELIEVE THAT
FIRMS DO TRY TO MAINTAIN HIGH ETHICAL STANDARDS IN ALL OF THEIR
BUSINESS DEALINGS. FURTHERMORE, MOST EXECUTIVES BELIEVE THAT THERE IS
A POSITIVE CORRELATION BETWEEN ETHICS AND LONG-RUN PROFITABILITY.
CONFLICTS OFTEN ARISE BETWEEN PROFITS AND ETHICS. COMPANIES MUST DEAL
WITH THESE CONFLICTS ON A REGULAR BASIS, AND A FAILURE TO HANDLE THE
SITUATION PROPERLY CAN LEAD TO HUGE PRODUCT LIABILITY SUITS AND EVEN
TO BANKRUPTCY. THERE IS NO ROOM FOR UNETHICAL BEHAVIOR IN THE BUSINESS
WORLD.
ANSWER: [SHOW S1-14 HERE.] NO. SUCH BEHAVIOR IS UNETHICAL, AND THERE IS NO
ROOM FOR UNETHICAL BEHAVIOR IN THE BUSINESS WORLD. SECOND, IF SUCH
ATTEMPTS ARE MADE, CREDITORS WILL PROTECT THEMSELVES AGAINST
STOCKHOLDERS BY PLACING RESTRICTIVE COVENANTS IN FUTURE DEBT
AGREEMENTS. FINALLY, IF CREDITORS PERCEIVE THAT A FIRM’S MANAGERS ARE
TRYING TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THEM, THEY WILL EITHER REFUSE TO DEAL
FURTHER WITH THE FIRM OR ELSE WILL CHARGE A HIGHER THAN NORMAL
INTEREST RATE TO COMPENSATE FOR THE RISK OF POSSIBLE EXPLOITATION.
THUS, FIRMS THAT DEAL UNFAIRLY WITH CREDITORS EITHER LOSE ACCESS TO
THE DEBT MARKETS OR ARE SADDLED WITH HIGH INTEREST RATES AND
RESTRICTIVE COVENANTS, ALL OF WHICH ARE DETRIMENTAL TO SHAREHOLDERS.
ANSWER: NO. GENERALLY, THERE IS A HIGH CORRELATION BETWEEN EPS, CASH FLOW,
AND STOCK PRICE, AND ALL OF THEM GENERALLY RISE IF A FIRM’S SALES
RISE. NEVERTHELESS, STOCK PRICES DEPEND NOT JUST ON TODAY’S EARNINGS
AND CASH FLOWS--FUTURE CASH FLOWS AND THE RISKINESS OF THE FUTURE
EARNINGS STREAM ALSO AFFECT STOCK PRICES. SOME ACTIONS MAY INCREASE
EARNINGS AND YET REDUCE STOCK PRICES WHILE OTHER ACTIONS MAY BOOST
STOCK PRICE BUT REDUCE EARNINGS. CONSIDER A COMPANY THAT UNDERTAKES
LARGE EXPENDITURES TODAY THAT ARE DESIGNED TO IMPROVE FUTURE
PERFORMANCE. THESE EXPENDITURES WILL LIKELY REDUCE EARNINGS PER
SHARE, YET THE STOCK MARKET MAY RESPOND POSITIVELY IF IT BELIEVES THAT
THESE EXPENDITURES WILL SIGNIFICANTLY ENHANCE FUTURE EARNINGS. BY
CONTRAST, A COMPANY THAT UNDERTAKES ACTIONS TODAY TO ENHANCE ITS
EARNINGS MAY SEE A DROP IN ITS STOCK PRICE, IF THE MARKET BELIEVES
THAT THESE ACTIONS COMPROMISE FUTURE EARNINGS AND/OR DRAMATICALLY
INCREASE THE FIRM’S RISK.
ANSWER: [SHOW S1-15 AND S1-16 HERE.] THE FIRM’S STOCK PRICE IS DEPENDENT ON
MANAGERIAL ACTIONS, SUCH AS INVESTMENT DECISIONS, FINANCING DECISIONS,
DIVIDEND POLICY DECISIONS, AND EXTERNAL FACTORS, INCLUDING LEGAL
CONSTRAINTS, THE GENERAL LEVEL OF ECONOMIC ACTIVITY, TAX LAWS, AND
CONDITIONS IN THE STOCK MARKET. MANAGERS CAN ENHANCE THEIR FIRM’S
VALUE (AND ITS STOCK PRICE) BY INCREASING THEIR FIRM’S EXPECTED CASH
FLOWS, SPEEDING UP CASH FLOWS, AND REDUCING THEIR RISKINESS.