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Showing all 13 results
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Restructuring your debt — Construction companies can keep it together
May / June 2012
Newsletter: Contractor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 1009
Abstract: Some construction companies have gone under these past few years, while others have lost substantial business or taken on heavy debts. But, for those in the latter category, there are ways to keep it together. This article explains the difference between “canceled” debt and “charged off” or “written off” debt and how to stretch out payments via cancellation of debt (COD) income. It also explores swapping debt for equity and explains how to work with creditors. A sidebar discusses why, for many contractors, finding a way to restructure debt is preferable to declaring bankruptcy. Recommended Article
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Liquidation value may be more relevant in a troubled economy
November / December 2012
Newsletter: Viewpoint on Value
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 1024
Abstract: Most appraisal assignments call for going-concern value — that is, the value of a business as if it will continue to operate profitably into perpetuity. But in a troubled economy, going-concern value might not be as relevant as liquidation value — especially if a business is unprofitable and is having trouble paying off its debt. This article defines liquidation value and explains how valuators can help assess whether it’s relevant, in light of the company’s situation. A sidebar discusses the differences between a forced liquidation and an orderly one. Recommended Article
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Is exporting right for your company? – Recommended Article
Spring 2012
Newsletter: Manufacturer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 847
Abstract: The International Trade Administration estimates that less than 1% of 30 million U.S. companies export their goods worldwide, with small businesses making up more than 70% of U.S. exporters. This means most companies are missing out on a bevy of customers. But there are several issues to consider before deciding to export. This article looks at the importance of studying particular markets, choosing a method of exporting, developing contacts and determining tariffs. A sidebar lists six questions to ask before making the decision. Recommended Article
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The power of mentoring — Unite business plan with succession plan
February / March 2012
Newsletter: Trendlines
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 753
Abstract: The owners of many companies launch their enterprises with a business plan — a written document outlining the company’s strategic objectives and practical means of accomplishing them. Likewise, many owners leave their businesses via a succession plan, a written document outlining how the company’s ownership should transition. Often, however, these two documents never cross paths, much less join toward a common goal. This article shows how effective mentoring can unite a succession plan with a business plan to great effect.
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Nasty numbers — 8 red flags to watch out for in your financial statements
January / February 2012
Newsletter: Contractor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 1056
Abstract: Financial statements show not only where a construction company is financially, but also where it’s going. Contractors who work with their financial advisors to analyze their statements can often catch problems early on — before they turn into bigger issues. This article lists eight red flags contractors should look out for when reading their next statement, including declining equipment value, significant liability changes, and an increasing ratio of general and administrative expenses to profits. A sidebar offers a glossary of several key financial statement terms. Recommended Article
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Make sure your expert is really an expert — Passing the Daubert test
September / October 2012
Newsletter: Viewpoint on Value
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 758
Abstract: Courts increasingly hold expert witnesses to a higher standard — considering, among other things, the expert’s education, experience and credentials. An expert who fails the court’s admissibility standards may be completely or partially excluded from testifying — putting the party that’s retained the expert at a significant disadvantage. This article explains the Daubert test: guidelines for admitting expert witnesses that attorneys need to be familiar with when using a valuator in a legal context. Recommended Article
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Two’s company? — There’s plenty to consider before buying a second franchise
September / October 2012
Newsletter: Dealer Insights
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 966
Abstract: Purchasing a second franchise is one of the biggest moves a dealer may ever make. This article looks at some of the steps to take in the decision-making process. They include choosing the right franchise for the market, determining the right price for the franchise, projecting profitability carefully, and projecting how the franchise will affect profits at the original store. A sidebar discusses what the manufacturer might require.
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Do you qualify for the manufacturers’ deduction?
Summer 2012
Newsletter: Manufacturer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 804
Abstract: The American Jobs Creation Act of 2004 introduced the manufacturers’ deduction for domestic production activities income. Also known as the “Section 199 deduction” or the “domestic production activities deduction,” it’s designed primarily for large companies, but it can yield big savings for small businesses as well. This article lists activities that qualify and shows how to calculate the deduction. For those who haven’t qualified for the manufacturers’ deduction because of a net operating loss (NOL), a sidebar explains how to take advantage of the NOL carryback and carryforward provisions.
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E-prescribing: A mandate you simply can’t ignore
Summer 2012
Newsletter: Rx for Practice Management / Practice Management Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 860
Abstract: E-prescribing allows a physician, nurse practitioner or physician assistant to electronically transmit a new prescription or renewal authorization to a community or mail-order pharmacy. The use of this functionality is becoming so widespread — and offers such convenience and efficiency for both the doctor and patient — that it can’t be ignored. This article describes what — under the Medicare financial incentive program — a “qualified” e-prescribing system must be able to do, and shows the reader how to implement one. A sidebar chart lists the benefits and barriers to e-prescribing.
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Do your ads meet federal lease and credit advertising requirements?
Summer 2012
Newsletter: Auto Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 539
Abstract: Dealers shouldn’t pass the buck when it comes to reviewing advertisements for compliance with federal lease and credit advertising guidelines. Manufacturers may help out, but it might not be enough. Because dealers are liable for federal lease and credit advertising violations, they can’t afford to let their ads run wild. So it’s critical that they conduct their own independent ad reviews for errors and omissions. This article explains how to maintain compliance with federal regulations.
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Seeing your way through transparency
June / July 2012
Newsletter: Nonprofit Agendas
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 941
Abstract: Since the IRS revised Form 990 several years ago to require the disclosure of a gamut of information, transparency has taken center stage with not-for-profits. But how does an organization reveal its inner workings without inviting misunderstanding or drawing criticism? This article explains the importance of offering transparency in an era of public skepticism. It discusses what a nonprofit should post on its website, and, beyond that, what to put in its Form 990 — including explanations of data that could raise questions.
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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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Pulse check: Is your firm in financial trouble?
Winter 2012
Newsletter: Law Firm Management
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 480
Abstract: Financially troubled law firms don’t always realize they’re troubled until it’s too late. By taking a quick pulse check, it’s possible to identify early signs of ill health — while there’s still time to treat them. This article examines what to look for in financial statements and how to spot subtle warning signs.