How does the Modigliani-Miller theorem challenge traditional views on capital structure? The Modigliani-Miller theorem proposes that, under certain idealized conditions, a firm's value is unaffected by how it is financed, whether through equity or debt. This theory suggests that the cost of capital remains constant regardless of the debt-to- equity ratio, challenging the notion that there's an optimal capital structure. It implies that financial leverage neither creates nor destroys value in a perfect market without taxes, transaction costs, or bankruptcy costs. However, real-world factors like tax benefits of debt and financial distress costs lead to modifications of the theorem. The Modigliani-Miller theorem serves as a foundational concept in corporate finance, prompting discussions on the relevance of capital structure decisions and the factors that influence firm value.

Financial Reporting, Financial Statement Analysis and Valuation
8th Edition
ISBN:9781285190907
Author:James M. Wahlen, Stephen P. Baginski, Mark Bradshaw
Publisher:James M. Wahlen, Stephen P. Baginski, Mark Bradshaw
Chapter5: Risk Analysis
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How does the Modigliani-Miller theorem challenge traditional views
on capital structure? The Modigliani-Miller theorem proposes that,
under certain idealized conditions, a firm's value is unaffected by how
it is financed, whether through equity or debt. This theory suggests
that the cost of capital remains constant regardless of the debt-to-
equity ratio, challenging the notion that there's an optimal capital
structure. It implies that financial leverage neither creates nor
destroys value in a perfect market without taxes, transaction costs, or
bankruptcy costs. However, real-world factors like tax benefits of debt
and financial distress costs lead to modifications of the theorem. The
Modigliani-Miller theorem serves as a foundational concept in
corporate finance, prompting discussions on the relevance of capital
structure decisions and the factors that influence firm value.
Transcribed Image Text:How does the Modigliani-Miller theorem challenge traditional views on capital structure? The Modigliani-Miller theorem proposes that, under certain idealized conditions, a firm's value is unaffected by how it is financed, whether through equity or debt. This theory suggests that the cost of capital remains constant regardless of the debt-to- equity ratio, challenging the notion that there's an optimal capital structure. It implies that financial leverage neither creates nor destroys value in a perfect market without taxes, transaction costs, or bankruptcy costs. However, real-world factors like tax benefits of debt and financial distress costs lead to modifications of the theorem. The Modigliani-Miller theorem serves as a foundational concept in corporate finance, prompting discussions on the relevance of capital structure decisions and the factors that influence firm value.
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