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As discussed in the text, in the absence of market imperfections and tax effects, we would expect the share price to decline by the amount of the dividend payment when the stock goes ex dividend. Once we consider the role of taxes, however, this is not necessarily true. One model has been proposed that incorporates tax effects into determining the ex-dividend price: (P0 – PX)/D = (1 – TP)/(1 – TG) Here P0 is

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Investors expect a rate of return from stocks in the form of dividends or capital gains. The ex-dividend price of a stock can be influenced by factors such as taxes and market expectations. Overall, the value of a stock reflects the present discounted value of future benefits, including both capital gains and dividends.

Step-by-step explanation:

Understanding Ex-Dividend Price and Rate of Return on Stocks

When a firm decides to issue stock, they are aware that investors expect a certain rate of return. This return can manifest in two different ways: dividends and capital gains. A dividend is a direct payment to shareholders, representing a share of the company's profit. Capital gain, on the other hand, occurs when an investor buys a stock at a given price and later sells it at a higher price, thereby realizing a profit from the increase in stock value. For instance, an investor might purchase a stock from Wal-Mart at $45 and sell it later for $60, achieving a $15 gain.

The value of a stock is often appraised through a Present Discounted Value, which takes into account potential capital gains and expected dividends. When the stock goes ex-dividend, the price usually drops by the amount of the dividend due to market expectations. However, once taxes are considered, this may not hold true as the actual ex-dividend price may vary due to investor's tax circumstances. It's important to understand that what one is willing to pay for a stock reflects the present value of all anticipated future benefits from owning the stock.

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