Question: A broker is considering buying a dividend - paying stock. The dividend will be paid at the end of the year. The analyst consensus is the stock will be worth $36 in one year. The company pays a 2.25 annual dividend (ex dividend date in not a consideration, the broker will receive the full $2.25), and the broker expects a 12% rate of return.
Required: What is the highest price the broker should be willing to pay for the stock?