Company E is debating whether to convert its all-equity capital structure to one that is 40% debt. Currently, there are 8,000 shares outstanding, and the price per share is $55. EBIT is expected to remain at $32,000 per year forever. The interest rate on new debt is 8%, and there are no taxes.

(a) XYZ, a shareholder of the firm, owns 100 shares of stock. What is her cash flow under the current capital structure, assuming the firm has a dividend payout rate of 100%?

(b) What will XYZ's cash flow be under the proposed capital structure of the firm? Assume he keeps all 100 of his shares.

(c) Suppose the company does convert, but XYZ prefers the current all-equity capital structure. Show how he could unlever his shares of stock to recreate the original structure.

(d) Using your answer to part (c), explain why the company's choice of capital structure is irrelevant.