The Grist Mill has no debt, a total market value of $319,200, and 24,000 shares of stock outstanding. The firm has expected EBIT of $21,000 if the economy is normal and $24,000 if the economy booms. The firm is considering a bond issue of $79,800 with an attached interest rate of 5.9 percent. The bond proceeds will be used to repurchase shares. The tax rate is 35 percent. What is the percentage increase in EPS if the economy experiences a boom rather than a normal state?

Multiple Choice

• 19.34%

• 18.41%

• 18.67%

• 19.29%

• 18.78%