Hi Mike,

Yes, there is a function in Excel that can help you calculate the discount rate used to generate the lump sum offer. It's called the RATE function.

Here's how you can use it:

1. In a blank cell, type
   Code:

   =RATE(

   to start the function.
2. Enter the number of periods in which the cash flows will be received. This is the "nper" argument in the function.
3. Enter the payment amount for each period. This is the "pmt" argument in the function.
4. Enter the present value of the cash flows. This is the "pv" argument in the function.
5. Enter the future value of the cash flows. This is the "fv" argument in the function. In your case, this would be the lump sum offer.
6. Press Enter to calculate the discount rate.

For example, if you have 5 periods, with a payment of $100 per period, a present value of $500, and a future value of $1000, the formula would look like this:

This would give you a discount rate of approximately 7.5%.