Final answer:
The CAPM equation is used to determine the expected return on an investment based on its beta and the risk-free rate. To find the return on the market and the risk-free rate, we can solve a system of equations using the given information.
Step-by-step explanation:
The CAPM (Capital Asset Pricing Model) equation is used to determine the expected return on an investment based on its beta and the risk-free rate.
The formula is: Expected Return = Risk-Free Rate + (Beta * (Market Return - Risk-Free Rate))
From the given information, Stock A has a beta of 1.76 and an expected return of 19.8%, while Stock B has a beta of 1.16 and an expected return of 14.6%.
By comparing the expected returns of stock A and stock B with their respective betas, we can calculate the return on the market and the risk-free rate. Using the formula, we substitute the values:
19.8% = Risk-Free Rate + (1.76 * (Market Return - Risk-Free Rate))
14.6% = Risk-Free Rate + (1.16 * (Market Return - Risk-Free Rate))
This is a system of equations that can be solved simultaneously to find the Market Return and the Risk-Free Rate.