1.A personal credit rating can have a significant impact on an individual's life and future; the same relationship can be applied to a corporation and its bond rating. A bond is rated based on its credit risk. As most U.S. corporations have some kind of debt financing, what actions can a firm take to keep its bond rating as high as possible and thus positively affect the cost of its long-term financing? Do people do similar things to keep their own credit ratings high

2. The New York Yankees is one of the most successful sport franchises ever. However, though the corporation is privately held, the Yankees sought additional funding in municipal bonds to build their $800 million stadium. Would these bonds be considered part of their capital structure? Considering that every team needs a stadium and the Yankees are legendary for their success, is this project of extreme or merely average risk?

3. If you were looking for funding for a start up, would you make use of social media like Facebook, Twitter, etc.? How could these sources help you?

4. What would you have to offer your parents, immediate family, and other relatives to get start-up money for a business venture? How might they be persuaded to help? Professionals know what questions to ask. What do you think your parents would ask?