Question 1

Betcha Ltd is evaluating three investment situations: (1) produce a new line of widgets, (2) expand its existing widget line to include several new sizes, and (3) develop a new higher-quality line of widgets. If only the project in question is undertaken, the expected present values and the amounts of investment required are as follows:

If projects 1 and 2 are jointly undertaken, there will be no economies; the investment required and present values will simply be the sum of the parts. With projects 1 and 3, economies are possible in investment because one of the machines acquired can be used in both production processes. The total investment required for projects 1 and 3 combined is $440,000. If projects 2 and 3 are undertaken, there are economies to be achieved in marketing and producing the products but not in investment. The expected present value of future cash flows for projects 2 and 3 combined is $620,000. If all three projects are undertaken simultaneously, the economies noted above will still hold. However, a $125,000 extension on the plant will be necessary, as space is not available for all three projects.

Which project or projects should be chosen?