QUESTION 1 (25 MARKS)

a) Describe the principal-agent relationship. Give an example of a principal-agent dilemma in the business environment in your response. Justify whether such a situation becomes costly. (15 marks)

b) Explain whether the following statements are true or false. i) Derivative transactions are designed to increase risk and are used almost exclusively by speculators who are looking to capture high returns. ii) Hedge funds typically have large minimum investments and are marketed to institutions and individuals with high net-worth. iii) Hedge funds have traditionally been highly regulated. iv) The New York Stock Exchange is an example of a stock exchange that has a physical location. v) A larger bid-ask spread means that the dealer will realize a lower profit. (5 marks)

c) Jow just bought a new Toyota Cross for his business. The price of the vehicle was RM128,000. Jimmy made a RM12,800 down payment and took out an amortized loan for the rest. The car dealership made the loan at 2.35% interest per year to be compounded monthly for five years. He is to pay back the principal and interest in equal monthly installments beginning of the month. Determine the amount of Jimmy's monthly payment. (5 marks)