Annie Hegg has been considering investing in the bonds of Atilier Industries. The bonds were issued 5 years ago at their $1,000 par value and have exactly 25 years remaining until they mature. They have an 8% coupon interest rate, are convertible into 50 shares of common stock, and can be called any time at $1,080. The bond is rated Aa by Moody’s. Atilier Industries, a manufacturer of sporting goods, recently acquired a small athletic-wear company which was in financial distress. As a result of the acquisition, Moody’s and other rating agencies are considering a rating change for Atilier bonds. Recent economic data suggest that expected inflation, currently at 5% annually, is likely to increase to a 6% annual rate.

Annie remains interested in the Atilier bond but is concerned about inflation, a potential rating change, and maturity risk. To get a feel for the potential impact of these factors on the bond value, she decided to apply the valuation techniques she learned in her finance course.

To Do:

1. For each of the following required returns, calculate the bond’s value, assuming annual interest. Indicate whether the bond will sell at a discount, at a premium, or at par value.
   1. Required return is 6%.
   2. Required return is 8%.
   3. Required return is 10%.
2. Repeat the calculations in part c
3. b, assuming that interest is paid semiannually and that the semiannual required returns are one-half of those shown. Compare and discuss differences between the bond values for each required return calculated here and in part b under the annual versus semiannual payment assumptions.
4. If Annie strongly believes that expected inflation will rise by 1% during the next few months, what is the most she should pay for the bond, assuming annual interest?
5. If the Atilier bonds are downrated by Moody’s from Aa to A, and if such a rating change will result in an increase in the required return from 8% to 8.75%, what impact will this have on the bond value, assuming annual interest?
6. After evaluating all of the issues raised above, what recommendation would you give Annie with regard to her proposed investment in the Atilier Industries bonds?