Assume that you are an analyst attempting to compare the financial structures of two companies. In particular, you must analyze the debt and equity categories of the two firms and calculate a debt-to-equity ratio for each firm. The Liability and Equity categories of First Company at year-end appeared as follows:

First Company's loan payable bears interest at 8%, which is paid annually. The principal is due in five years. The Liability and Equity categories of Second Company at year-end appeared as follows:

Second Company's preferred stock is 8%, cumulative. A provision of the stock agreement specifies that the stock must be redeemed at face value in five years.

Required

1. It appears that the loan payable of First Company and the preferred stock of Second Company are very similar. What are the differences between the two securities?
2. When calculating the debt-to-equity ratio, do you believe that the Second Company preferred stock should be treated as debt or as stockholders' equity? Write a statement expressing your position on the issue.

 Part 2:

Rohnan Inc. needs to raise $500,000. It is considering two options:

1. Issue preferred stock, $100 par, 8%, cumulative, nonparticipating, callable at $110. The stock could be issued at par.
2. Issue common stock, $1 par, market $10. Currently, the company has 400,000 shares outstanding distributed equally in the hands of five owners. The company has never paid a dividend.

Required

1. Rohnan has asked you to consider both options and make a recommendation. It is equally concerned with cash flow and company control. Write your recommendations.

 Initial post due by Thursday.  

Remember to include at least one scholarly source in your post or comments. Source must be cited in-text and full reference listed at the end of the post, both in APA format. Then, comment on at least two posts from your peers within the Discussion Thread. Due by Sunday.