An excerpt from the financial data of firms A and B is given below. Both firms have agreed to merge with firm B taking over firm A. The exchange ratio for the merger will be 1:3, meaning that the stockholders of A will receive 1 share of firm B in lieu of every 3 shares they currently hold in firm A. Item Firm A Firm B P/E Ratio US$8.192 and US$16 Shares outstanding 96,000 and 200,000 Earnings US$250,000 and US$800,000 EPS US$2.6042 and US$4.00 It is estimated that the NPV from the acquisition will be zero, meaning that the benefits and costs of the merger will be equal. Using the presented information, comment on whether the merger will lead to a growth in earnings for the combined firm.