Last year, your firm had a price$-$earnings ratio of $15$ and earnings per share of $$1\mathrm{.}20.$ This year, the price$-$earnings ratio is $18$ and the earnings per share is $$1\mathrm{.}20.$ Based on this information, it can be stated with certainty that:

Group of answer choices

investors are paying a lower price per share this year as compared to last year.

the earnings per share decreased.

investors are receiving a higher rate of return this year.

the price per share decreased.

the investors' outlook for the firm has improved.