An Investment Banker Is Analyzing Two Companies That Specialize in the Production

Essay

An investment banker is analyzing two companies that specialize in the production and sale of gourmet cappuccino and chai mixes. Roasted Beans Co. uses a labor-intensive approach and Monat Industries uses a mechanized system. Variable costing income statements for the two companies are shown below:
The investment banker is interested in acquiring one of these companies. However, she is concerned about the impact that each company's cost structure might have on its profitability.
Instructions
(a) Calculate each company's degree of operating leverage.
(b) Determine the effect on each company's net income if sales decrease by 10% and if sales increase by 15%. Do not prepare income statements.