NPV and maximum return A firm can purchase new equipment for a $$26,500$ initial investment. The equipment generates an annual after$-$tax cash inflow of $$9,000$ for $5$ year

a$.$ Determine the net present value $($NPV$)$ of the asset, assuming that the firm has a cost of capital of $15\%.$ Is the project acceptable?

b$.$ Determine the maximum required rate of return that the firm can have and still accept the asset.

a$.$ The net present value $($NPV$)$ of the new equipment is $

$($Round to the nearest cent.$)$