CFA Level II ExamEquity InvestmentsHard

An equity analyst is valuing 'TechInnovate Corp.', a publicly traded technology company, using the dividend discount model. The company currently pays an annual dividend of $1.50 per share. The dividend is expected to grow at 20% for the next two years, then at 10% for the following three years, and finally stabilize at a constant growth rate of 5% indefinitely. The required rate of return for TechInnovate Corp. is 12%. What is the intrinsic value per share of TechInnovate Corp. using this valuation approach?

  1. A$48.72
  2. B$45.50
  3. C$42.18
  4. D$38.95
Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: C. $42.18

This question requires a multi-stage dividend discount model calculation involving three distinct growth phases and the calculation of a terminal value. Each dividend and the terminal value must be discounted back to the present.

Why the other options are wrong

  • A. Incorrect. This value could be obtained if the terminal value calculation or its discounting is flawed.
  • B. Incorrect. This value may result from misapplying one of the growth rates or discounting factors.
  • D. Incorrect. This value likely results from an error in calculating one of the discounted dividends or the terminal value.

Multi-Stage Dividend Discount Model

A valuation model that allows for varying dividend growth rates over different periods, typically a high-growth phase, a transition phase, and a stable-growth phase.

  • Used for companies with non-constant dividend growth.
  • Requires calculating dividends for each stage and a terminal value.
  • All future cash flows (dividends and terminal value) are discounted to present.

Memory trick: Many Stages: Dividends Dance, Then Settle Down.

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