projected cash flows and a discount rate. For mutually exclusive projects, there is some
dispute over the appropriate method. Second, when cash flows come in over a longer
time period, NPV assumes the intermediate term cash flows are reinvested at the cost of
capital. Internal rate of return, on the other hand, assumes the intermediate term cash
flows are reinvested at the IRR, which for any positive NPV project is higher than the
cost of capital.3 Finally, NPV is not sensitive to multiple sign changes in cash flows. It
is a method that presents the expected dollar amount that shareholder wealth would
increase or decrease upon the acceptance of a project.
II. Sample Selection Process
The interpretation of survey data presents some limitations as discussed in
Aggarwal (1980). While the survey was mailed to the CFO, the responses were the
opinion of one individual and thus may not fully reflect the firm’s position. It is possible
this person may not be the best to assess the capital budgeting process if he/she is far
removed from capital management. There is also potential concern about a non-response
bias. In an attempt to limit this limitation, two personalized mailings were sent six weeks
apart. While the survey technique is not without flaws, it has been generally accepted as
a reasonable proxy given the time and personal constraints in large corporations.
A two-page questionnaire was mailed to the Chief Financial Officers (CFO’s) of
each of the Fortune 1000 companies. In an attempt to increase the response rate, each
letter was personalized and signed. Furthermore, we mailed a copy of the results to
interested respondents. Each survey was coded to avoid duplication in a second mailing.