2011
Showing 145–160 of 649 results
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In good form – Getting borrowers to think outside the corporate box
October / November 2011
Newsletter: Commercial Lending Report
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 988
Abstract: Many borrowers operate as C corporations to limit their personal liability. But sometimes the costs (such as double taxation) and hassles of incorporation outweigh the benefits. Hybrid options, however, offer the best of both worlds: limited personal liability and tax savings. This article describes the pros and cons of sole proprietorships and general and limited partnerships, along with such hybrid options as limited liability companies (LLCs), limited liability partnerships (LLPs) and S corporations. A sidebar explains why it’s sometimes beneficial to set up separate legal entities.
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What drives value, drives credit
October / November 2011
Newsletter: Commercial Lending Report
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 827
Abstract: Balance sheets give financial statement readers insight into a company’s financial position — its assets and liabilities — at a given point in time. But it’s dangerous to equate the book value of equity on the balance sheet with the equity’s fair market value. For many reasons, these values can be significantly different. This article explains why a balance sheet can present an incomplete picture of financial position, and why it’s important to track future earnings and evaluate local comparables.
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Contractor’s Toolbox – 3% withholding on government contracts comes under fire
Fall 2011
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 431
Abstract: A controversial tax provision is scheduled to take effect in a little over a year, and it could have a huge impact on contractors’ cash flow. The provision requires most government entities to withhold 3% of payments for goods and services. However, a number of business groups oppose the new requirement and, as of this writing, several proposals are pending in Congress to repeal it. The article explains the rationale for the requirement and the arguments for repeal.
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Discover new opportunities with joint ventures and strategic alliances
Fall 2011
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 299
Abstract: For many contractors — particularly smaller ones — a joint venture or strategic alliance offers an opportunity to join forces with other construction companies to achieve business goals that one business couldn’t achieve on its own. This short article explains the difference between these two arrangements and the advantages that both offer to the partners involved.
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Is your construction company at risk? Understand how to account for claim revenue
Fall 2011
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 622
Abstract: If a construction company encounters unanticipated income, also known as “claim revenue,” it might find itself in hot water with the taxing authorities. So when is a company at risk? As this article explains, it’s important to know when to use the percentage-of-completion accounting method vs. the completed-contract method. And, in deciding what to include each year, contractors need to gather objective, verifiable evidence supporting each claim.
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Year end tax planning – Contractors should take a strategic approach
Fall 2011
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 1164
Abstract: As 2011 winds down, it’s time for contractors to think about year end tax planning. It’s critical to take a strategic approach, balancing the desire for short-term tax savings against one’s interest in preserving the long-term financial strength of the business. This article discusses timing issues and accounting methods, followed by a look at 2011 tax breaks and the impact that various tax moves may have on lending and bonding relationships. A sidebar shows why bonus depreciation and Section 179 expensing are particularly valuable this year for contractors investing in equipment and other fixed assets.
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BANK Wire – Tighter cybersecurity rules in place for 2012
Fall 2011
Newsletter: Community Banking Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 416
Abstract: This issue’s “BANK Wire” notes that, to comply with updated federal banking rules that take effect Jan. 1, banks must add control measures to make Internet banking safer for customers. It also shows how FASB has amended its guidance on determining if a debt restructuring is a troubled debt restructuring (TDR). For most community banks, the guidance will apply to all restructurings after 2011.
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Lending to start-up businesses
Fall 2011
Newsletter: Community Banking Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 479
Abstract: In this down economy, it pays to be more cautious than ever when lending to start-up businesses. This article reviews some of the factors to look for when a potential customer walks in the door — and what to require of the borrower. Specifically, bankers should consider the business’s industry and the entrepreneur’s qualifications and objectivity. Then they should determine what the benchmarks for success will be and ensure that they’ll be getting timely and reliable financial data.
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Mobile banking: How do we get there?
Fall 2011
Newsletter: Community Banking Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 618
Abstract: Many banks now allow customers to access their accounts, make transfers and payments, and conduct other transactions — all from their mobile devices. However, despite the many benefits of mobile banking, customers are still wary of electronic banking methods. As a result, many community banks are reluctant to fully plunge into the mobile arena. This article shows some of the procedures banks can implement to make the most of this fast-growing market.
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Handle mergers with care
Fall 2011
Newsletter: Community Banking Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 954
Abstract: The possibility of rising regulatory capital requirements has prompted many banks to consider a merger as a potential compliance strategy. These complex transactions raise a variety of corporate, financial, valuation, regulatory, tax and liability issues. This article provides an introduction to the merger process — with a focus on tax-free transactions. A sidebar offers a checklist to ensure that all the bases are covered during each phase of the merger process.
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How much should you be paid?
Fall 2011
Newsletter: Auto Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 845
Abstract: Among the tough decisions dealer-owners face at year end are how much money to take out of the business and how to split that amount between salaries, bonuses and dividends. Although owners’ compensation is somewhat discretionary, it needs to withstand IRS scrutiny. As this article explains, the IRS is looking for both over- and underpayments, depending on whether the subject company is a C corporation or a flow-through entity. A sidebar discusses other parties that have a vested interest in how much dealer-owners are getting paid.
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Buying fixed assets never looked so good
Fall 2011
Newsletter: Auto Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 493
Abstract: Dealerships that are considering purchasing equipment and other “fixed assets” should take a look at Section 179 and bonus depreciation deductions — they’re especially generous in 2011 but will diminish after the end of the year. This article offers details.
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Nip it in the bud – Background checks thwart fraud, but be careful
Fall 2011
Newsletter: Auto Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 738
Abstract: No matter how strong a dealer’s internal controls, it needs to “begin at the beginning” with complete employee background checks. It’s one of the best ways to protect one’s business and customers, although it’s still important to be careful with the final decision. This article explains how to conduct background checks without violating privacy rights and other laws, and why dealers that choose to hire an outside agency need to check its credentials.
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Your next warranty audit: Be prepared!
Fall 2011
Newsletter: Auto Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 641
Abstract: Manufacturers’ periodic warranty audits have become more frequent as they seek ways to compensate for more dealer-friendly warranty laws that some states have passed to increase warranty reimbursement rates and eliminate manufacturer surcharges. Every dealer gets audited at least once, so this article shows how they can prepare.
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Ask the Advisor – What type of due diligence is necessary in today’s market?
September / October 2011
Newsletter: Real Estate Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 423
Abstract: The commercial real estate market remains rocky. Historical assumptions about rent growth, lease renewals, and similar issues are less reliable than in the past. That means due diligence for new transactions will require more intensive effort and a broader, more conservative focus. This article describes three kinds of information that must be reviewed, and steps that go beyond traditional due diligence.
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Year end is fast approaching: Tax strategies to consider
September / October 2011
Newsletter: Real Estate Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 589
Abstract: This article looks at a number of year end strategies that take advantage of enhanced bonus depreciation; shorter time periods for depreciation under the Modified Accelerated Cost Recovery System (MACRS); and deferring taxable income to next year and accelerating deductions to this year. It also discusses the tax implications of retirement planning, charitable giving, and hiring one’s children to work in the family business.