With reference to Option Two:

i) What would be its effective rate of borrowing for the three months if US dollar LIBOR is 4.50% at the start of the notional interest period for the FRA? (2 marks)
ii) What are the advantages of Convertible Bonds? (3 marks)

ii) Advantages of Convertible Bonds:

  1. Lower Interest Rates: Convertible bonds typically offer lower interest rates than traditional bonds because investors are compensated by the option to convert the bonds into shares if the company’s stock performs well.
  2. Deferred Dilution: While convertible bonds offer the potential for equity conversion, dilution of ownership only occurs when the bonds are converted, allowing the company to defer issuing more shares and the impact on earnings per share.
  3. Attractive to Investors: Investors find convertible bonds appealing because they offer the stability of bond payments with the potential upside of converting into equity if the company’s stock price rises.
  4. Access to Capital: For companies like Prestige, convertible bonds can provide access to capital without immediately diluting shareholder equity and may be a more cost-effective option than issuing straight equity.