Honey Comb Plc has issued 10% convertible loan stock, which is due for redemption in 10 years’ time (i.e., December 31, 2025). The option to convert is open only for another two years. If conversion does not take place by December 31, 2017, the option will lapse. The issue was sold to the public at a price of N920 for N1000 of convertible loan stock. The conversion rate at January 1, 2016 was 250 equity shares for N1000 of stock. Non-convertible loan stock in a similar risk class is presently yielding 12%. The market price of Honey Comb Plc equity shares has been increasing steadily over time, reflecting the performance of the company. The shares currently pay a dividend of N0.30 per share. The current price of the convertible security is N960, and each share is currently valued at N3.00. A holder of the convertible loan stock is considering whether to sell his holdings or continue to hold the stock. Ignore taxation while answering the questions.

Required:
a. What is the value of the security as simple unconvertible loan stock? (5 Marks)

b. What is the expected minimum annual rate of growth in the equity share price that is required to justify the holder of convertible loan stock holding on to the security before the option expires? (12 Marks)

c. What recommendation would you make to the holder of the security and why? (3 Marks)