Evaluate the following accurate to the nearest cent:
$\$100\left(1+0.11\times \frac{5}{12}\right)$

Three years ago, General Avionics announced plans to triple its annual R&D spending over the next 4 years. If R&D spending was increased by 25%, 30%, and 35% in the first 3 years, what minimum percent increase is required in the fourth year to reach the target?

Melanie's regular hourly rate of pay is $17.70. She is paid time and a half for all work on weekends and for any time over 8.5 hours on weekdays. Calculate her gross earnings for a week in which she works 4.5, 0, 7, 8.5, 5, 6, and 9 hours on Saturday to Friday, respectively.

Determine the equivalent nominal rate of interest compounded semi-annually, as 4.2% compounded monthly.

A) 4.20%
B) 4.24%
C) 4.28%
D) 4.36%
E) 4.44%