Final answer:
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.