Problem - Southern Textiles is in the process of expanding its productive capacity to introduce a new line of products. Current plans call for a possible expenditure of $100 million on four projects of equal size ($25 million), but different returns. Project A will increase the firm's processed yarn capacity and has an expected return of 15% after taxes. Project B will increase the capacity for woven fabrics and carries a return of 13.5%. Project C, a venture into synthetic fibers, is expected to earn 11.2%, and project D, an investment into dye and textile chemicals, is expected to show a 10.5 % return.

The firm's capital structure consists of 40% debt and 60% common equity and this will continue in the future. There is no preferred stock. Southern Textiles has $15 million in retained earnings. After a capital structure with $15 million in retaining earnings is reached (in which retained earnings represent 60% of the financing) all additional equity financing must come in the form of new common stock.

Common stock is selling per $30 per share and underwriting costs are estimated at $3 if new shares are issued. Dividends for the next year will be $1.50 per share (D1) , and earnings and dividends have grown consistently at 9% per year.

The yield on comparative bonds has been hovering at 11%. The investment banker feels that the first $20 million of bonds could be sold to yield 11% while additional debt might require a 2% premium and be sold to yield 13%. The corporate tax rate is 34%.

a) At what size capital structure will there be a change in the cost of debt?

b) What will the marginal cost of capital be immediately after that point?

c) Based on the information about potential returns on investments in the first paragraph and information on marginal cost of capital how large a capital investment budget should the firm use?