What is the discount rate in the context of the dividend discount model?

In the context of the dividend discount model (DDM), the discount rate represents the required return on equity for the investor. This is the rate of return that an investor expects to earn for taking on the risk of investing in a particular stock. The DDM is used to determine the present value of a stock based on its expected future dividends.

When calculating the present value of these future dividends, the discount rate is applied to account for the time value of money and the risks associated with equity investments. If the discount rate is higher, the present value of expected future dividends will be lower, reflecting a higher risk or required return. Conversely, a lower discount rate increases the present value, suggesting that the investment is considered less risky or that the investor has a lower required return.

Using this understanding, the required return on equity serves as a pivotal factor in valuing the stock, making it essential for the DDM process. The other options do not directly relate to the DDM framework. The interest rate on company debt pertains to the cost of borrowing, rates that affect dividend payments are implicitly included in corporate policy decisions, and rates used for tax calculations are unrelated to stock valuation models such as the DDM.