In: Finance
A investor invests 1,000 in risk-free British gilts, paying 9%per annum. At the time of making the investment the exchange rate was $2.5= £1.5At the end of the year the exchange rate is $1.85= £1. What return has the investor made? What is the broad point with it?
Step 1: Value of investment in pound
Value = $ 1000 / 2.50
= 400 Pounds
Step 2: Value of investment at the end of year (in pounds)
Value at the end of year = Investment * ( 1 + Interest rate )
= 400 * ( 1 + 0.09 )
= 436 pounds
Step 3: Value of investment at the end of year (in dollars)
Value = 436 pounds * 1.85
= $ 806.60
Step 4: Return earned
Return = [ 806.60 - 1000 ] / 1000
= -19.34% Answer
It signifies that exchange rate plays a crucial role while determing the return from overseas investment.