Answer:
a.
15.29%
b.
$39,659,760
Explanation:
Note that the formula for return on equity provided below can be used to determine the earnings growth rate:
return on equity=earnings growth rate*retention rate
return on equity=13%
the earnings growth rate is the unknown
retention rate=85%
13%=the earnings growth rate*85%
the earnings growth rate=13%/85%=15.29%
The earnings next year=this year's earnings*(1+15.29% )
The earnings next year=$34,400,000*(1+15.29%)=$39,659,760