1. Explain the factors that determine beta and how an asset beta can differ from equity betas.

2. Thornley Machines is considering a 3-year project with an initial cost of $618,000. The project will not directly produce any sales but will reduce operating costs by $265,000 a year. The equipment is depreciated straight-line to a zero book value over the life of the project. At the end of the project the equipment will be sold for an estimated $60,000. The tax rate is 34%. The project will require $23,000 in extra inventory for spare parts and accessories. Should this project be implemented if Thornley's requires a 9% rate of return? Why or why not?

Note: OCF is given: $265,000. Compute the initial Cash out flow and the Terminal Cash flow.