CFA Level II ExamEquity InvestmentsMedium

A financial analyst is valuing a company using the free cash flow to equity (FCFE) model. The company has a current net income of $50 million, depreciation of $10 million, capital expenditures of $20 million, and an increase in working capital of $5 million. The company has no debt and does not plan to issue or repurchase any equity. What is the current FCFE for this company?

  1. A$55 million
  2. B$45 million
  3. C$35 million
  4. D$40 million
Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: C. $35 million

FCFE can be calculated as Net Income + Depreciation - Capital Expenditures - Change in Working Capital. In this case, FCFE = $50 million + $10 million - $20 million - $5 million = $35 million. Since there is no net borrowing or repayment, and no equity issuance/repurchase, these components are zero.

Why the other options are wrong

  • A. Incorrect calculation.
  • B. Incorrect calculation.
  • D. Incorrect calculation.

Free Cash Flow to Equity (FCFE) Calculation

The calculation of FCFE starting from net income, adjusting for non-cash items, investment in fixed capital, and investment in working capital, and considering net borrowing.

  • FCFE = Net Income + Depreciation - Capital Expenditures - ΔWorking Capital + Net Borrowing.
  • Represents cash flow available to equity holders.
  • Alternative formula: FCFF - Net Debt Payments + Net Borrowings.

Memory trick: Net Income, Add Dep, Subtract Capex & WC change.

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