Northman’s common equity, debt, and preferred equity are worth $70,000, $10,000 and $20,000 respectively with a total value is $100,000. The company’s common stock is currently listed at $54 per share; new preferred stock sells for $70 per share with a flotation cost of 10% and pays a dividend of $3.5 per share. Last year the company paid dividends of $2 per share on common stock, which is expected to grow at a constant rate of 5%. The local bank is willing to finance the project at 12% annual interest. Assuming the company’s tax rate is 35%, do the following computations: What is the cost of common equity, assuming only retained earnings are used?

What is the cost of common equity, assuming only retained earnings are used?