CLR
Showing 129–144 of 345 results
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In the News – Partnership audits in a nutshell
August / September 2016
Newsletter: Commercial Lending Report
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 437
Abstract: Lenders may be indirectly affected by new rules for IRS audits of partnerships and LLCs, which are treated as partnerships for tax purposes. This article provides a brief summary of how the rules have recently changed and when they go into effect.
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5 lessons learned about fraud over the last 20 years
August / September 2016
Newsletter: Commercial Lending Report
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 615
Abstract: Fraud continues to be a hot button for lenders who become indirect victims when borrowers that suffer fraud losses are unable to repay their debts. This article provides five takeaways from the 2016 Report to the Nations on Occupational Fraud and Abuse for borrowers and lenders alike. It covers the types and costs of fraud, the profile of a perpetrator, methods of concealment, and potential red flags that warrant further investigation.
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Dissension in the ranks – Embrace the healthy changes that come with new talent
August / September 2016
Newsletter: Commercial Lending Report
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 654
Abstract: It’s common for borrowers to feel blindsided when a key person, such as a top manager, CEO, CFO or lead salesperson, unexpectedly resigns. The effects often trickle down the organization, impacting morale and productivity. This article explains how proactive owners implement a game plan to facilitate the transition and minimize disruptions. Eventually, if a strong replacement is found, the change can revitalize operations and make the borrower stronger than ever.
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What every lender needs to know about impairment
August / September 2016
Newsletter: Commercial Lending Report
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 868
Abstract: Impairment testing is designed to give lenders and other stakeholders an early warning sign that the value of a company’s goodwill, brand or other indefinite-lived intangible asset has decreased. This article explains which intangible assets are subject to impairment, how it’s measured and how the accounting rules about impairment testing are evolving. A sidebar shows how impairment affects a borrower’s financial statements.
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In the News – New accounting standard changes the rules for leases
June / July 2016
Newsletter: Commercial Lending Report
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 441
Abstract: A new financial reporting standard issued by the FASB may require borrowers to re-evaluate their leasing decisions. This article discusses how the updated guidance differs from current lease accounting practice and explains how lenders can help borrowers as they implement the changes.
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Beyond the numbers – Footnote disclosures provide a clearer picture of what lies beneath
June / July 2016
Newsletter: Commercial Lending Report
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 531
Abstract: Business owners often think that financial statement footnotes require too many detailed disclosures under GAAP. But footnotes can provide insight into the details of account balances, accounting practices and potential risks — knowledge that’s vital to making well-informed lending and investing decisions. This article highlights key risk factors to watch out for in a borrower’s footnotes and explores the latest developments in the FASB’s disclosure framework project.
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Lending to borrowers with multiple entities
June / July 2016
Newsletter: Commercial Lending Report
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 680
Abstract: Borrowers that operate various lines of business under one “roof” may expose themselves and their lenders to high levels of risk. But creating separate legal entities for different business practices can reduce those risks. This article presents the upsides and potential pitfalls for lenders to know about when borrowers operate multiple legal entities.
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The ins and outs of accounting for inventory
June / July 2016
Newsletter: Commercial Lending Report
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 857
Abstract: For many types of businesses, inventory is typically a leading source of collateral. This article describes the different accounting methods borrowers use to report their inventories and explains why lenders can’t always accept inventories at face value. A sidebar helps lenders understand what makes up the LIFO reserve.
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In the News – Are your borrowers securely disposing of equipment?
April / May 2016
Newsletter: Commercial Lending Report
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 434
Abstract: Borrowers need to upgrade equipment to stay productive and competitive. But when they retire these assets, weak disposal protocol could lead to data security breaches and environmental liabilities. This article explains how lenders can help borrowers prevent yesterday’s assets from becoming tomorrow’s liabilities.
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Goodbye, one-year extenders – Businesses welcome a new era in tax planning
April / May 2016
Newsletter: Commercial Lending Report
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 673
Abstract: Taxes aren’t something that lenders usually discuss with borrowers. But this year might be an exception. This article discusses several major tax law changes that occurred at the end of 2015 under the PATH Act, including provisions that relate to the research credit, depreciation tax breaks and a reduction in the recognition period for S corporations. These changes will allow borrowers to plan with greater certainty and take advantage of numerous tax-saving opportunities.
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Help borrowers take a closer look at liquidity
April / May 2016
Newsletter: Commercial Lending Report
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 542
Abstract: Traditionally, lenders have equated higher liquidity with lower credit risk. But years of historically lower interest rates have led many companies to stockpile cash and otherwise become lax in working capital management. This article explains why it’s possible to have too much of a good thing and how you can help borrowers renew their interest in running a tight ship as interest rates gradually rise in 2016 and beyond.
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Postdeal M&A issues: Ensuring a smooth transition
April / May 2016
Newsletter: Commercial Lending Report
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 862
Abstract: Mergers and acquisitions take months (or even years) of work to conduct due diligence, negotiate the terms and obtain financing. But the hardest work comes after closing, when management is tasked with integrating two corporate cultures. This article explains how lenders can do more than watch from the sidelines: They can review interim performance, encourage swift and decisive change, and ask a lot of questions. A sidebar highlights simplified accounting alternatives that private companies may now elect after combining with another entity to minimize postdeal accounting costs.
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In the News – Studying the effects of mandatory audit firm rotation
February / March 2016
Newsletter: Commercial Lending Report
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 446
Abstract: A recent academic study challenges the idea that a long-term relationship between a company and its auditors compromises professional skepticism and quality. The findings are relevant to lenders who rely on audited financial statements. This article discusses the ongoing debate over audit firm rotation and the psychology behind auditor skepticism.
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If not an audit, which level of “assurance” is appropriate?
February / March 2016
Newsletter: Commercial Lending Report
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 587
Abstract: Audits are seen by many as the “gold standard” in financial reporting. But this level of assurance isn’t necessary for every business. In some cases, management may prefer to downgrade its financial statements. This article discusses the key differences between reviews, compilations and preparations, including how these services have changed under the AICPA’s recent SSARS 21.
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Protect your loan portfolio against the perils of divorce
February / March 2016
Newsletter: Commercial Lending Report
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 664
Abstract: Many successful small businesses are run by married couples. But when divorce strikes, business performance may suffer. This article explains how lenders can help borrowers set aside hurt feelings, remind them about the importance of keeping their personal and business lives separate, and recommend a financial advisor to identify and work around potential roadblocks. It also discusses an emerging concept known as “collaborative divorce,” which, under the right conditions, can minimize costs and business disruptions — and teach former spouses how to work together after they’ve parted ways personally.
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Turnover turmoil: Know the signs of financial distress
February / March 2016
Newsletter: Commercial Lending Report
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 841
Abstract: Weak financial performance can cause borrowers to default on loans. So, it’s important for lenders to recognize the early warning signs that a company is underperforming. This article discusses three turnover issues that may foreshadow pending financial woes: high employee turnover, unexpected auditor turnover and deteriorating asset turnover. A sidebar explains how agreed-upon-procedures engagements can help lenders evaluate questionable performance, including loan covenant violations.