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.

EBK CONTEMPORARY FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT
14th Edition
ISBN:9781337514835
Author:MOYER
Publisher:MOYER
Chapter2: The Domestic And International Financial Marketplace
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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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