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Multiple Choice
How does depreciation affect the calculation of a project's accounting rate of return (ARR)?
A
Depreciation has no effect on the calculation of ARR.
B
Depreciation increases the average annual accounting profit, thereby increasing the ARR.
C
Depreciation is only considered in cash flow calculations, not in ARR.
D
Depreciation reduces the average annual accounting profit, thereby lowering the ARR.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of Accounting Rate of Return (ARR): ARR is a financial metric used to evaluate the profitability of an investment. It is calculated as the average annual accounting profit divided by the initial investment or average investment.
Recognize the role of depreciation in accounting profit: Depreciation is a non-cash expense that reduces the reported accounting profit of a project. It represents the allocation of the cost of a tangible asset over its useful life.
Identify how depreciation impacts ARR: Since ARR is based on accounting profit, and depreciation reduces accounting profit, the inclusion of depreciation in the calculation will lower the average annual accounting profit.
Clarify why depreciation is relevant to ARR: Unlike cash flow-based metrics, ARR relies on accounting profit, which includes non-cash expenses like depreciation. Therefore, depreciation directly affects the ARR calculation.
Conclude the relationship: Depreciation reduces the average annual accounting profit, which in turn lowers the Accounting Rate of Return (ARR). This is why the correct answer is that depreciation reduces ARR.