Question Tag: Dividend Payout

Ope plc has N10m 5 percent convertible bonds in issue. The option to convert into 40 N1 ordinary shares is open only for one more year; they must be either converted in one year’s time or left as ordinary bonds until nine years’ time when they will be redeemed at par. The current share price is ₦1.60, and the annual growth rate in the share price is 15 percent per annum. The current required return on Ope’s equity is 25 percent, its business being relatively risky.

The current yield on ordinary non-convertible bonds in similar companies is 11 percent. These interest rates are expected to remain constant.

Ife plc has 100,000 warrants outstanding, each entitling the holder to subscribe for one N1 ordinary share at 90 kobo any time during the next 3 years. The current share price is 57 kobo, and the capital growth is expected to be constant at 12 percent p.a. in the future. The current price of the warrant is 10 kobo.

Required:

a. Calculate the current value of Ope’s convertibles as straight debt, i.e., ignoring the option to convert and the value if conversion were to take place today. Would you expect the market value of the convertible to be above or below each of these amounts and why? (5 Marks)

b. By how much should the share price of Ope Plc rise before holders would be induced to convert, on the last possible date for conversion? (4 Marks)

c. Explain why the market value of a convertible bond is likely to be affected by the dividend policy of the issuing company. (4 Marks)

d. Based on the projected capital growth for Ife Plc, would you expect holders of the warrants to exercise them before expiry? What is the minimum annual growth rate of the share price necessary to induce holders to exercise their warrants? (2 Marks)

(Total 15 Marks)