Current assets investment policy

Rentz Corporation is investigating the optimal level of current assets for the coming year. Management expects sales to increase to approximately $2 million as a result of an asset expansion presently being undertaken. Fixed assets total $3 million, and the firm plans to maintain a 55% debt-to-assets ratio. Rentz's interest rate is currently 9% on both short-term and longer-term debt (which the firm uses in its permanent structure). Three alternatives regarding the projected current asset level are under consideration: (1) a restricted policy where current assets would be only 45% of projected sales, (2) a moderate policy where current assets would be 50% of sales, and (3) a relaxed policy where current assets would be 60% of sales. Earnings before interest and taxes should be 14% of total sales, and the federal-plus-state tax rate is 40%.

Requirement:

Question 1: What is the expected return on equity under each current asset level? Illustrate in detail clarify all workings.