Final answer:
To calculate the price an investor is willing to pay for Lauren Corporation stock, given a desired return of 18%, a dividend of $3.30, and a constant growth rate, use the Gordon Growth Model. The calculated stock price would be approximately $25.88.
Step-by-step explanation:
The value of the Lauren Corporation stock, given an expected constant dividend growth rate and desired return rate, can be calculated using the Gordon Growth Model (also known as the Dividend Discount Model).
In this case, we would use the formula:
P = D1 / (r - g)
Where:
P = the present value of the stock
D1 = the dividend next year
r = the required rate of return
g = the growth rate of the dividends
By substituting the given values:
P = $3.30 / (0.18 - 0.0525)
P = $3.30 / 0.1275
When we do the math, we find:
P = $25.88
Therefore, if an investor wants an 18% return on their investment, they would be willing to pay approximately $25.88 for a stock in Lauren Corporation that will pay a $3.30 dividend next year and grow at a rate of 5.25% forever.