developing your optimal capital structure the icing on cake 2 agenda building blocks of an maximizing shareholder value case study learning objective understand key concepts creation and cost how to apply those company 3 questions please direct all technical analyst rodes nash 404 813 5057 5 review six steps prepare build a financial model evaluation credit quality published ratings synthetic peer analysis kmv risk calc assess flexibility access sources targeted leverage desired liquidity benchmark industry valuation multiple assessment identify issues specific current market conditions 7 strategy ultimate test corporate only reliable measure is whether it creates economic for shareholders alfred rappaport management can enhance through four primary strategic avenues operating strategies around existing business acquisitions or divestitures managing taxes financing decisions 8 cash non tax rate gross net margins