Math Problem Statement

Andrew buys a zero coupon bond with par value of $1,000, yield to maturity of 8%, and maturity of 16 years. How much money does he make if he holds it to maturity? Assume annual compounding.

Solution

A zero-coupon bond doesn't pay periodic interest, but instead is sold at a discount and grows to its face value (or par value) at maturity. The amount Andrew pays initially for this bond can be calculated using the present value formula:

Price=Par Value(1+Yield)Years\text{Price} = \frac{\text{Par Value}}{(1 + \text{Yield})^{\text{Years}}}

Given Information:

  • Par Value = $1,000
  • Yield to Maturity = 8% (0.08 as a decimal)
  • Maturity = 16 years

Calculation:

Price=1,000(1+0.08)16\text{Price} = \frac{1,000}{(1 + 0.08)^{16}} Price=1,000(1.08)16\text{Price} = \frac{1,000}{(1.08)^{16}} Calculating (1.08)16(1.08)^{16}: (1.08)163.5184(1.08)^{16} \approx 3.5184 Price1,0003.5184284.26\text{Price} \approx \frac{1,000}{3.5184} \approx 284.26

So, Andrew pays approximately $284.26 for the bond.

Money Made at Maturity:

At maturity, the bond reaches its par value of $1,000, so the profit Andrew makes is:

Profit=Par ValuePurchase Price\text{Profit} = \text{Par Value} - \text{Purchase Price} Profit=1,000284.26=715.74\text{Profit} = 1,000 - 284.26 = 715.74

Answer:

Andrew makes approximately $715.74 if he holds the bond to maturity.

Would you like more details or have any questions?


Here are some related questions to deepen your understanding:

  1. What would happen to Andrew's profit if the yield to maturity was higher?
  2. How does compounding frequency affect the price of a zero-coupon bond?
  3. What is the difference in profit if the maturity period is reduced?
  4. How would semi-annual compounding change the initial purchase price?
  5. What are the risks associated with zero-coupon bonds for investors?

Tip: A higher yield decreases the bond's initial purchase price, increasing the potential profit at maturity.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Finance
Present Value
Yield to Maturity
Exponential Growth

Formulas

Present Value of a Zero-Coupon Bond: Price = Par Value / (1 + Yield)^Years
Profit Calculation: Profit = Par Value - Purchase Price

Theorems

Compound Interest Formula

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 11-12