An analyst collects the following data on the return on equity (ROE) and the payout ratio for two companies, M and N. Using a required return of 12.4% for both companies, she computes the justified forward P/E ratios, which are also given below.

If Company M increases its dividend payout ratio to 40% and Company N decreases its dividend payout ratio to 30%, which of the following will most likely occur? The justified P/E ratio of:

A.Both companies would increase.

B.Both companies would decrease.

C.Company M would increase but that of Company N would decrease.