Question

Which cash flow would you rather pay, $425 today or $500 in two years if interest rates are 10 percent? Why?

Answer 1

Answer:

Explanation:

The main goal is to compare these two based on the same terms; present values. Find the present value of $500 today by discounting it using 10% interest rate over two years.

PV = FV/ (1+r)^n

where FV = Future value = $500

r = discount rate = 10% or 0.10 as a decimal

n = total duration of investment  = 2

PV = $500/(1+0.10)^2

PV = $500/1.21

PV = $413.22

Since you are basing the decision on what you would rather pay, you would want a lower pay amount. The $425 is already in its present value terms and it is more expensive. Therefore, you would prefer to pay $500 in two years.