2019
Showing 433–448 of 598 results
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Getting up to speed – Now may be the time to purchase business vehicles
April / May 2019
Newsletter: Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 684
Abstract: The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) more than tripled depreciation allowances for “luxury autos.” It also temporarily enhanced “bonus” depreciation for some business assets, boosting first-year depreciation deductions for passenger autos and allowing businesses to immediately deduct the full cost of heavier vehicles. This article suggests that, to reduce the costs of purchasing one or more vehicles for business purposes significantly, business owners may be able to take advantage of these enhanced tax breaks.
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How to prepare for the new lease accounting standard
April / May 2019
Newsletter: Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 886
Abstract: The goal of the Accounting Standards Update Leases (Topic 842) — often referred to as ASC 842 — is “to increase transparency and comparability among organizations by recognizing lease assets and lease liabilities on the balance sheet and disclosing key information about leasing arrangements,” according to the FASB. This article offers some steps companies can take to prepare to comply with the new standard. It notes that, while the work required to comply is significant, it will lead to a better understanding of the lease terms in effect — thus helping companies leverage economies of scale and more effectively negotiate future leases.
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COMPLIANCE ALERT
April / May 2019
Newsletter: Employee Benefits Update
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 74
Abstract: This feature lists a few key tax reporting deadlines for April and May.
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Take a close look at your plan expense categories
April / May 2019
Newsletter: Employee Benefits Update
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 381
Abstract: Keeping a sharp eye on your 401(k) plan’s expenses — a fundamental duty of fiduciaries — can require the use of a magnifying glass, at least metaphorically speaking. Take the case of what’s paid out of retirement plan investment funds, as opposed to paid directly by the plan or the company as the plan sponsor. Individual pieces can be measured in basis points (hundredths of one percent), but they add up. This article briefly explains some common contributors to a plan’s gross expense ratio and how even small distinctions can substantially affect participant investment returns over time.
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Have you outgrown the need for matching 401(k) contributions?
April / May 2019
Newsletter: Employee Benefits Update
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 592
Abstract: Administrating a retirement plan is an evolving process. For example, many plan sponsors provide matching contributions on participant 401(k) plan deferrals without realizing there’s an alternative: making substantial nonelective contributions instead of matching contributions. It’s not a strategy that will work for all employers, but this article explains that there is nothing to lose — and perhaps much to gain — by at least considering it.
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Fiduciary liability – First Circuit shifts burden of defending a fiduciary breach claim
April / May 2019
Newsletter: Employee Benefits Update
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 701
Abstract: A recent ruling could set the stage for a definitive U.S. Supreme Court opinion regarding retirement plan fiduciaries’ liability on the subject of monitoring plan expenses. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit’s ruling in Brotherston v. Putnam Investments shifts a key aspect of the burden of proof of a fiduciary breach from the plaintiff employees to the plan sponsor defendant. This article reviews the case and the court’s decision. Brotherston v. Putnam Investments, No. 17-1711, October 15, 2018 (First Cir.)
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Proposed IRS regs liberalize rules for hardship withdrawals
April / May 2019
Newsletter: Employee Benefits Update
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 949
Abstract: How hard should a hardship be to justify a hardship withdrawal from a 401(k) plan? Proposed IRS regulations could, according to the agency itself, enable eligible plan participants “to access their money more quickly with a minimum of red tape.” This article provides a short summary of several key provisions of the detailed proposed regulations. A sidebar looks at different ways employers might respond to the changes.
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Under stress – How to stress test a borrower’s financials
April / May 2019
Newsletter: Commercial Lending Report
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 393
Abstract: Conducting a so-called “stress test” of a prospective borrower’s financial position and its ability to withstand a crisis can provide a window into its inner workings and leadership. This article suggests three steps for stress testing a borrower’s financial health. The article points out that stress tests can help a lender assess a potential borrower’s level of preparedness. Stress testing also can help the borrower identify and reinforce any vulnerable areas.
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Risk vs. reward: How should you assess new customers?
April / May 2019
Newsletter: Commercial Lending Report
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 548
Abstract: Lenders who branch out and pursue new lending opportunities need to “dial up” their due diligence procedures to ensure a prospective borrower is creditworthy. This article points out that these procedures include reviewing historical financial statements, conducting interviews, and benchmarking performance over time and against industry averages. It notes that lenders who do this analytical legwork may unearth hidden risks and liabilities.
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Key person risks – Help borrowers stay on course when turnover rocks the boat
April / May 2019
Newsletter: Commercial Lending Report
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 630
Abstract: One unexpected change that can have a ripple effect within a business is the resignation or departure of a top manager or key employee. It can be difficult to fill some staff members’ shoes, especially over the short term. This article presents some tips lenders can offer borrowers to help them plan for unexpected events and become more resilient in the face of change. Helping borrowers plan for, and adjust to, the loss of a key person will lead to a healthier bottom line for all involved.
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Lending to businesses that sell overseas
April / May 2019
Newsletter: Commercial Lending Report
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 808
Abstract: Most domestic companies sell primarily to customers based in the United States. But some generate significant revenue from overseas customers — and every foreign market presents a unique set of risks. This article explains that lenders who receive loan applications from companies with an international customer base will need to evaluate those companies differently than they would if the companies only operate domestically. The article notes that, though there are issues to be resolved, the rewards of lending to companies with a presence abroad may justify the risks. A sidebar offers tips for tapping into local professionals’ knowledge about a potential borrower.
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Warning: Expert admissibility standards may vary
March / April 2019
Newsletter: Viewpoint on Value
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 422
Abstract: In federal court, the admissibility of expert testimony is governed by the strict Daubert standard. Courts in most states have also adopted the Daubert standard, but others may apply the less stringent Frye standard. This article compares these standards, and explains why it’s important to look beyond state law to determine which standard applies in a particular case. Daubert v. Merrell Dow Pharmaceuticals, Inc., 113 U.S. 2786, 1993 Frye v. United States, D.C. Cir., 293 F. 1013, 1923 Kumho Tire Co. v. Carmichael, 526 U.S. 137, 1999 Delisle v. Crane, No. SC16-2182, October 15, 2018
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How to calculate terminal value
March / April 2019
Newsletter: Viewpoint on Value
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 533
Abstract: When using the discounted cash flow method to value a business, a large chunk of the value is contained in the “terminal” value. This article discusses ways business valuation experts estimate terminal value and the importance of using reasonable assumptions about long-term growth.
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Buyer beware – Hire a business valuation pro to help with due diligence
March / April 2019
Newsletter: Viewpoint on Value
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 709
Abstract: The U.S. merger and acquisition (M&A) market hit a record high in 2018. That momentum is expected to continue in 2019. But, before you get swept away in the hype, it’s important to do your homework. This article explains the importance of conducting thorough due diligence and preparing detailed financial projections before you close on a deal.
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Verition Partners Master Fund Ltd. v. Aruba Networks, Inc. – Court turns to stock price as best evidence of fair value
March / April 2019
Newsletter: Viewpoint on Value
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 853
Abstract: In recent years, Delaware’s Supreme Court has shown its preference, under the right circumstances, for market-based indicators of value in statutory appraisal cases. This article summarizes a recent dissenting shareholders case in which the court concluded that the best evidence of fair value was the target company’s unaffected stock price. Conversely, a sidebar highlights another case in which the court relied on an expert’s discounted cash flow analysis in the absence of reliable market-based indicators of value. Verition Partners Master Fund Ltd. v. Aruba Networks, Inc., Delaware Ch., C.A. No. 11448-VCL, February 15, 2018 Dell, Inc. v. Magnetar Global Event Driven Master Fund Ltd, Del., 177 A.3d 1, 2017 Blueblade Capital Opportunities LLC v. Norcraft Companies, Inc., Delaware Ch., C.A. No. 11184-VCS, July 27, 2018
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Historic Tax Credit is alive and well
March / April 2019
Newsletter: Real Estate Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 426
Abstract: Prior to the passage of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) in late 2017, the future of the Historic Tax Credit (HTC) for rehabilitating historic buildings was questionable. This article looks at the HTC — also known as the federal rehabilitation credit — and why it remains a valuable tool for developers, even though it’s slightly less beneficial than it was for projects completed before 2018.