Final answer:
The only option that will increase the present value of a future amount is a decrease in the interest rate, as this means a lower rate of discounting is applied, thereby making each future dollar worth more in today's terms.
Step-by-step explanation:
To determine which of the options will increase the present value of an amount to be received in the future, we must consider the factors that impact present value calculations. Present value is the current worth of an amount that is expected to be received in the future, and it is calculated by discounting the future amount by the interest rate. An increase in the time until the amount is received (Option a) would decrease the present value, as it allows for more time for the money to be discounted. A decrease in the future value (Option b) would directly decrease the present value since there's less to discount. A decrease in both the future value and number of time periods (Option c) is similar to Option (b) and would not lead to an increase in the present value. However, a decrease in the interest rate (Option d) would increase the present value because there is less discounting being applied to the future amount, meaning each future dollar is worth more today. An increase in the discount rate (Option e) would like a higher interest rate, decrease the present value.
Therefore, the correct answer is d) Decrease in the interest rate.