On January 1, 2021, a firm issues bonds with a face amount of $1,500,000. The stated rate is 10%, the market rate is 12%, the term is three years and payments are made twice a year, on June 30 and Dec. 31. What is the interest expense that the firm records on its books when making the first cash payment to investors on June 30, 2021?

a) $75,000

b) $85,574

c) $90,000

d) $107,702

e) $150,000