The beta coefficient for Stock C is bC = 0.2, and that for Stock D is bD = - 0.8. (Stock D's beta is negative, showing that its rate of return rises whenever returns on most other stocks fall. There are very few negative-beta stocks, though collection agency and gold mining stocks are sometimes cited as examples.)
a. If the risk-free rate is 9%and the expected rate of return on an average stock is 10%, what are the required rates of return on Stocks C and D?
b. For Stock C, assume the present price, P0, is $25; the next expected dividend, D1, is $1.50; and the stock's expected constant growth rate is 4%. Is the stock in equilibrium? Describe, and explain what would happen if the stock is not in equilibrium.