, a large stock-exchange-listed company, is evaluating an investment proposal to manufacture X metal, which has performed well in test marketing trials conducted recently by the company’s research and development division. X metal will be manufactured using a fully-automated process which would significantly increase noise levels from Tshepiso Ltd’s factory. The following information relating to this investment proposal has now been prepared: Initial investment P2 million Selling price (current price terms) P20 per unit Expected selling price inflation 3% per year Variable operating costs (current price terms) P8 per unit Fixed operating costs (current price terms) P170,000 per year Expected operating cost inflation 4% per year BIU.AC.CAA.01 Issue 01 23-02-2021 Page 4 of 4 The research and development division has prepared the following demand forecast as a result of its test marketing trials. The forecast reflects expected technological change and its effect on the anticipated life-cycle of X metal. Year 1 2 3 4 Demand (units) 60,000 70,000 120,000 45,000 It is expected that all units of X metal produced will be sold, in line with the company’s policy of keeping no inventory of finished goods. No terminal value or machinery scrap value is expected at the end of four years, when production of X metal is planned to end. For investment appraisal purposes, Tshepiso Ltd uses a nominal (money) discount rate of 10% per year and a target return on capital employed of 30% per year. Ignore taxation. Required: (a) Calculate the following values for the investment proposal: (i) net present value; (15 marks) (ii) internal rate of return; and (10 marks) (iii) return on capital employed (accounting rate of return) based on average investment. (10 marks) (b) Briefly discuss your findings in each section of (a) above and advise whether the investment proposal is financially acceptable. (15 marks