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Expected value

SSarah6y ago
Hi, If the question ask us to calculate the expected value at point A, do we need to minus the cost of making a decision at point B to arrive at the expected value at point A or we just need to multiply the probability to get the expected value? In some of the questions which I have done, they deducted the cost while some they don't deduct. Sorry, it's hard to explain the question without the picture of the diagram so it might sound confusing. Eg: Point A (outcome) High 90% $580000 Low 10% $240000 Expected value which I have calculated = $546000 Point B (decision) Invest ($40000) *connecting line to Point A* Outsource $240000 *connecting line to Point A* Do I need to deduct $40000 (cost of investing) from $546000 to get the expected value at point A on the decision trees?
SSarah6y ago#1
The answer given is $506000 (they deducted it). The other question which I have done, they don't. I don't understand why.
John MoffatJohn MoffatTutor6y ago#2
It doesn't matter whether you subtract the cost then or later. Subtracting the cost is only relevant in deciding which of the alternatives is better.
SSarah6y ago#3
Thank you so much! The question also says: "The profit outcomes do not include the cost of any investments made." Does it mean anything or it is not relevant? The question asks to calculate: "What is the expected value at point A on the decision trees?"
John MoffatJohn MoffatTutor6y ago#4
The decision will be based on the net outcome, i.e. the profits less the cost of the investment. Without seeing the tree, the value at point A is likely to be the net outcome.
SSarah6y ago#5
Thanks.
John MoffatJohn MoffatTutor6y ago#6
You are welcome :-)
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