The management of Maltwo Co. asks your help in determining the comparative effects of the FIFO and LIFO inventory cost flow methods. For 2015, the accounting records show the following data.

Inventory, January 1 (10,000 units)$ 37,000 Cost of 110,000 units purchased 479,000 Selling price of 90,000 units sold720,000 Operating expenses 150,000

Units purchased consisted of 40,000 units at $4.20 on May 10; 50,000 units at $4.40 on August 15; and 20,000 units at $4.55 on November 20.

Income taxes are 30%.

Instructions:

1. Prepare comparative condensed income statements for 2015 under FIFO and LIFO. (Show computations of ending inventory.)
2. Answer the following questions for management.
3. Which inventory cost flow method produces the most meaningful inventory amount for the balance sheet? Why?
4. Which inventory cost flow method produces the most meaningful net income? Why?
5. How much additional cash will be available for management under LIFO than under FIFO? Why?