Answer: 18%
Step-by-step explanation:
The expected return on the common stock after refinancing will be calculated thus:
Let's assume that common stock is 1000. Therefore, return will be:
= 15% × 1000 = 150
Since 25% of the common stock is repurchased, this will be:
= 25% × 1000 = 250
Then, this 250 is financed by debt at 6%, and this will be:
= 6% × 250 = 15
Then, the new return will be:
= 150 - 15 = 135
Expected Return will now be:
= 135/(1000 - 250)
= 135/750
= 18%