Final answer:
The valuation of Cumulus Media determines the payments to claimants in bankruptcy. Bankruptcy incurs costs like legal fees and loss of reputation. Cumulus Media likely experienced these costs before filing.
Step-by-step explanation:
The valuation of Cumulus Media matters because it determines the amount of money that will be available to the different claimants in the event of bankruptcy. In a bankruptcy case, the claimants, such as creditors and shareholders, are entitled to receive payments based on their priority and the amount of assets available. The competing valuations in the case of Cumulus Media will impact how much each claimant will receive from the proceeds of the bankruptcy.
The costs of bankruptcy or financial distress can be significant. These costs can include legal fees, administrative expenses, and the loss of reputation and business opportunities. Cumulus Media likely experienced some of these costs prior to filing for bankruptcy, such as declining revenues, increased debt, and difficulties in securing financing.