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Multiple Choice
Which of the following statements best explains when the coupon rate on a firm's outstanding debt can be used as a substitute for the cost of debt?
A
When the firm's outstanding debt was issued recently and market interest rates have not changed significantly since issuance.
B
When the firm's outstanding debt has a long maturity regardless of market rate changes.
C
When the firm plans to issue new equity instead of debt.
D
When the coupon rate is always equal to the yield to maturity, regardless of market conditions.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of 'cost of debt': The cost of debt refers to the effective rate a company pays on its borrowed funds. It is typically calculated as the yield to maturity (YTM) on the firm's outstanding debt, which reflects the current market conditions.
Analyze the role of the coupon rate: The coupon rate is the fixed interest rate stated on the bond when it is issued. It does not change over time, but the yield to maturity can fluctuate based on market interest rates and the bond's price.
Evaluate the conditions under which the coupon rate can approximate the cost of debt: The coupon rate can be used as a substitute for the cost of debt when the bond was issued recently and market interest rates have not changed significantly since issuance. This is because the coupon rate would closely match the yield to maturity in such a scenario.
Consider the other options: Bonds with long maturities may not have a coupon rate that reflects the current cost of debt due to changes in market interest rates over time. Similarly, the decision to issue equity instead of debt does not affect the relationship between the coupon rate and the cost of debt. Lastly, the coupon rate is not always equal to the yield to maturity, as market conditions can cause the bond's price to fluctuate.
Conclude the reasoning: The correct explanation is that the coupon rate can approximate the cost of debt when the firm's outstanding debt was issued recently and market interest rates have remained stable since issuance. This ensures that the coupon rate and yield to maturity are closely aligned.