A company has analyzed a project to invest in and calculates NPV. NPV is negative. From a financial perspective, should the company invest and why?

1. yes, the company should invest because it will earn more than its required rate of return

2. no, the investment is worth undertaking because it creates value for its owners

3. no, the investment payback period is too long

4. no, the company should not invest because it will not earn its required rate of return