ZSE Co is concerned about exceeding its overdraft limit of $2 million in the next two periods. It has been experiencing considerable volatility in cash fl ows in recent periods because of trading diffi culties experienced by its customers, who have often settled their accounts after the agreed credit period of 60 days. ZSE has also experienced an increase in bad debts due to a small number of customers going into liquidation.
The company has prepared the following forecasts of net cash fl ows for the next two periods, together with their associated probabilities, in an attempt to anticipate liquidity and fi nancing problems. These probabilities have been produced by a computer model which simulates a number of possible future economic scenarios. The computer model has been built with the aid of a fi rm of fi nancial consultants.
Required:
(a) Calculate the following values:
(i) the expected value of the period 1 closing balance;
(ii) the expected value of the period 2 closing balance;
(iii) the probability of a negative cash balance at the end of period 2;
(iv) the probability of exceeding the overdraft limit at the end of period 2.
Discuss whether the above analysis can assist the company in managing its cash fl ows. (13 marks)
(b) Identify and discuss the factors to be considered in formulating a trade receivables management policy for ZSE Co. (8 marks)
(c) Discuss whether profi tability or liquidity is the primary objective of working capital management. (4 marks)