Answer:
IRR = 14.96%
The project should be rejected, because the calculated internal rate of return falls short of the required return (14.96% < 16%).
Explanation:
The internal rate of return (IRR) is an essential calculation in capital budgeting for assessing potential investment profitability. The IRR rule guides whether to pursue a project or investment, stipulating that if the IRR exceeds the minimum required return, the project should be accepted. Conversely, if it’s lower than the cost of capital or the requisite return, the project should be turned down.
The formula used is as follows:
$0 = (initial investment x -1) + CF1 / (1 + IRR) ^ 1 + CF2 / (1 + IRR) ^ 2 +... + CFX / (1 + IRR) ^ X
Initial Investment = Total initial investment costs year x-1
CFx = Cash Flow during period X
IRR = Internal rate of return
Due to the nature of the IRR formula, it cannot be computed analytically; it must be derived through trial and error or via specialized software for IRR calculation.
In this instance:
IRR = -27200 + 11200 / (1 + IRR) ^ 1 + 14200 / (1 + IRR) ^ 2 + 10200 / (1 + IRR) ^ 3
IRR = 14.96%
The company should not proceed with the investment, as the calculated IRR is less than what is required (14.96% < 16%).
