Cordelion Communications is considering issuing new common stock and using the proceeds to reduce its outstanding debt. The stock issue would have no effect on total assets, the interest rate Cordelion pays, EBIT, or the tax rate. Which of the following is likely to occur if the company goes ahead with the stock issue?

a. The times interest earned ratio will decrease.

b. Net income will decrease.

c. Taxable income will decrease.

d. The ROA will decline.

e. The tax bill will increase.