Instructions: Use the pro forma financial statements to answer the questions below. Change the assumptions in the assumptions box as needed to answer the questions. In addition to the assumptions listed on the spreadsheet, also assume that all asset accounts will grow at the same rate as sales, and that no new equity will be issued in 2014.
Questions:
a. Enter a formula for external funding required in the first green box. How much external financing does Ottawa need in 2014?
b. Given your answer from (a), do you expect the sustainable growth rate to be greater than, less than, or equal to the sales growth rate for 2014? Enter a formula for the sustainable growth rate in the second green box. What is Ottawa's sustainable growth rate?
c. At what rate does the actual sales growth rate equal the sustainable growth rate? How much external financing is required at this growth rate? (This can be determined by trial and error.)
d. Return the sales growth rate to 15%. Suppose Ottawa wants to solve the financing shortfall by increasing profit margin. How low would the ratio of COGS/Sales have to go in order to make up the shortfall? With COGS/Sales at this lower level, what is the sustainable growth rate? (Hint: The Goal Seek tool can help you find this quickly. Consult Excel Help if you are unfamiliar with the Goal Seek tool.)
e. Return COGS/Sales to 75%. Now suppose Ottawa wants to solve the shortfall by increasing the retention ratio. How low would the dividend payout ratio have to be in order to eliminate the financing shortfall?
f. Return the dividend payout ratio to 40%. Now suppose Ottawa wants to make up any financing shortfall with increased debt. How high would the debt/equity ratio have to be to make up the difference?
g. Given the above options, and any other options that you can find, make a recommendation for a reasonable and practical solution to Ottawa's financing shortfall. Your solution can involve changing multiple variables.
Attachment:- Assignment File.rar