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Showing all 15 results
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2021 legal market – Why this year could mark an inflection point
Spring 2021
Newsletter: Law Firm Management
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 861
Abstract: A recent study of the legal market suggests that 2020’s disruptions to law firm operations could end up being the impetus the industry needs to finally adapt to the market’s competitive realities. The Center on Ethics and the Legal Profession at the Georgetown University Law Center and Thomson Reuters Institute’s 2021 Report on the State of the Legal Market looks at key issues likely to influence the market in 2021 — and beyond. The article discusses the report’s conclusion that the industry may be reaching a critical inflection point when it comes to the delivery of legal services. A short sidebar reviews some findings from the report, including why firms were able to raise their rates last year, attorney growth and partner profits.
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IRS takes on like-kind exchanges – Proposed regulations clarify definition of real property
November / December 2020
Newsletter: Real Estate Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 861
Abstract: The IRS has released highly anticipated proposed regulations that provide critical guidance on Section 1031, or like-kind, exchanges in the wake of changes made by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA). Most importantly, the proposed regs define the term “real property” for purposes of determining whether property qualifies for a Sec. 1031 exchange. This article reviews the definition under the regs and a short sidebar looks at how “incidental” personal property is treated.
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Is it time to give a fresh look at “alts” in retirement plans?
August / September 2019
Newsletter: Employee Benefits Update
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 861
Abstract: Are many plan participants gaining the benefit of a truly broad diversification of retirement portfolio assets? The answer might depend on whether they’re covered by a defined benefit (DB) plan or a defined contribution (DC) plan. This article takes a look at why DB plans offering “alternative” investments, also known as alts, may make a big difference.
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What does the new lease accounting standard mean for banks?
Spring 2019
Newsletter: Community Banking Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 861
Abstract: The Financial Accounting Standards Board’s new lease accounting standard takes effect this year for public business entities — and fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, for other organizations. The new standard may affect banks in two ways: First, it will cause many customers’ balance sheets to swell, which may cause some customers to violate loan covenants. Second, it will have an impact on banks’ own balance sheets, which may affect their capital ratios. This article discusses the ins and outs of the new standard, while a sidebar explains how to add flexibility to loan covenants.
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Major shift in lease accounting could cause major headaches
Spring 2016
Newsletter: Manufacturer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 861
Abstract: Almost every manufacturer leases equipment or real estate. For decades, companies weren’t required to report many lease-related assets and liabilities on their balance sheet. That’s all about to change under a controversial new lease accounting standard that’s scheduled to be published in early 2016. This article provides an overview of the current and proposed lease standards. A sidebar explains why leases remain a viable option for some manufacturers.
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Double whammy – IRD triggers both estate and income taxes
November / December 2015
Newsletter: Estate Planner
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 861
Abstract: IRD refers to income earned or accrued during life, but not received until after death. It often results in double taxation because it’s included in the deceased’s taxable estate and it represents taxable income to the recipient — usually, the deceased’s estate, spouse or other beneficiaries. Unlike other types of assets, IRD assets don’t receive a stepped-up basis, which otherwise would eliminate income taxes. This article provides strategies to minimize the impact of IRD, while a sidebar illustrates how to calculate it.
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4 IRS hot buttons – Defending your business against tax audits
Winter 2015
Newsletter: Manufacturer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 861
Abstract: Everyone has at least one pet peeve. The IRS has many. This article describes items that the tax agency may target on a manufacturer’s 2014 tax return: owners compensation, travel expenses, meals and entertainment, and net operating losses. A sidebar explains how to proceed if the IRS mails a notice of inquiry.
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Getting off on the right foot – Merger transitions set the stage for a successful alliance
August / September 2014
Newsletter: Nonprofit Agendas
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 861
Abstract: When two nonprofits merge — as in any alliance that blends two staffs and sets of operations — challenges arise. But knowing where the pitfalls lie is half the battle. This article discusses specific challenges that should be anticipated and managed, particularly as they pertain to constituent concerns, layoffs, employee morale, and standardization of operations, policies and procedures.
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Sizing up your payroll for health care reform
Winter 2014
Newsletter: Auto Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 861
Abstract: Many dealerships are unsure of how the Affordable Care Act (ACA) will affect their operations. This article offers some guidance for 2014 and beyond. It defines “small” vs. “large” employers and their different responsibilities. Large employers must offer “affordable” health insurance of at least “minimum value” (again, those terms are defined), while small employers have other options. But a sidebar notes that the tax credit for small employers may be limited.
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What would you pay to be in charge? The evolving state of control premiums
Winter 2014
Newsletter: Expert / Valuation & Litigation Concepts
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 861
Abstract: Investors theoretically pay a premium to control a business. “Control premiums” are intended to measure what control really is worth to investors. But quantifying these premiums can be problematic — in fact, the Appraisal Practices Board (APB) has identified control premiums among the top four areas in which it observes the “greatest diversity” in appraisal practice. It recently released a discussion draft that addresses the issue in the context of valuations prepared for financial reporting purposes. This article looks at its recommendations, while noting that traditional control premium studies still have their place. A sidebar discusses discounts for lack of control.
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Financial reporting for contractors – Is the latest accounting framework for you?
January / February 2014
Newsletter: Contractor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 861
Abstract: For construction companies, the complex rules involved with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles often don’t provide much guidance that’s of particular interest or use — especially if the contractor never expects to go public or be acquired by a publicly traded company. To accommodate the simpler financial reporting needs of smaller private companies, the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants has introduced the “Financial Reporting Framework for Small- and Medium-Sized Entities,” or FRF for SMEs. This article lists some key financial reporting areas affected by the framework, while a sidebar offers a checklist of “good fit” criteria to help contractors judge whether it’s right for them.
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Handle with care – Make sure buy-sell valuation provisions are clear
November / December 2013
Newsletter: Valuation & Litigation Briefing / Litigation & Valuation Report
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 861
Abstract: Perhaps the most critical aspect of a buy-sell agreement is its valuation provision. Any ambiguity in the agreement’s pricing terms — or misunderstandings about what they mean — can lead to unpleasant surprises when the buy-sell agreement is triggered. This article describes three common approaches to setting a price, along with the importance of choosing terminology carefully. A sidebar illustrates the dangers of relying on book value to set a buyout price in a buy-sell agreement.
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Ready, set, restructure
April / May 2012
Newsletter: Commercial Lending Report
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 861
Abstract: Missed payments, maxed out credit lines, management turnover and unreturned phone calls are just a few of the precursors that indicate it’s time to recommend a restructuring specialist to assist the distressed borrower. This article explains how a specialist can identify costs that can be cut and noncore assets that can be liquidated. It also explains why forgiving or restructuring debt might be advisable. A sidebar discusses ways a restructuring specialist can recommend creative alternatives to improve cash management.
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Setting sail to a safe harbor – Is a safe harbor 401(k) plan right for you?
October / November 2011
Newsletter: Employee Benefits Update
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 861
Abstract: A safe harbor 401(k) plan is a 401(k) that automatically satisfies the nondiscrimination testing rules for elective deferrals and matching contributions. The IRS will consider a plan a safe harbor plan if it satisfies certain contribution, vesting and notice requirements. This article explains the differences between safe harbor and traditional 401(k)s, and the steps needed to start one.
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Now and later – Time these 2008 tax strategies
Fall 2008
Newsletter: Auto Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 861
Abstract: Some tax planning issues don’t have to be addressed until the time of filing — for example, turning a net operating loss (NOL) into a tax benefit. But other strategies need to be launched before the end of the year to work, such as making qualified asset purchases so that you can benefit from Section 179 expensing and 50% bonus depreciation.