2011
Showing 561–576 of 649 results
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Bond credit ratings 101 – Despite unfavorable press, ratings are still meaningful
March / April 2011
Newsletter: Planning for Prosperity / Wealth Management Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 814
Abstract: Credit rating agencies have been criticized for not providing adequate warning about risky securities. Despite their recent high-profile failings, credit ratings remain a useful tool for bond investors, as long as their limitations are understood. This article discusses the three major credit rating agencies and what the ratings indicate, so that the reader can make use of them while keeping their limitations in perspective. A sidebar discusses whether municipal bonds are still a good investment in today’s environment.
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Tax reduction strategies for a growing family
January / February 2011
Newsletter: Planning for Prosperity / Wealth Management Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 608
Abstract: Raising children today is expensive, but there are a number of strategies to help ease the burden. As this article explains, these include exemptions, tax credits, Education Savings Accounts, and 529 plans.
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Keep emotions in check when making investment decisions
January / February 2011
Newsletter: Planning for Prosperity / Wealth Management Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 546
Abstract: Deciding what to do with investments during tough times can be difficult, and emotions sometimes get in the way of making sound choices. But this article looks at ways to maintain objectivity, such as taking advantage of automatic investment plans, developing an individualized wealth management plan, and diversifying one’s portfolio.
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2 charitable giving vehicles: DAFs and private foundations
January / February 2011
Newsletter: Planning for Prosperity / Wealth Management Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 597
Abstract: Those who are charitably inclined and ready to greatly increase their contributions should consider whether a donor advised fund (DAF) or a private foundation might be better for their purposes. A DAF is easier and less costly to set up than a foundation, but a foundation offers more opportunity for control. This article looks at the details of both.
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Does your bank still meet your needs?
January / February 2011
Newsletter: Planning for Prosperity / Wealth Management Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 854
Abstract: Bank services and fees are constantly changing, and the mix that originally seemed attractive might bear little resemblance to a bank’s current offerings. Thus, a periodic review is in order. This article explores services that a particular user may or may not need, available online options, and avoiding fees. A sidebar discusses how a bank’s size can offer pros and cons for small business owners.
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Ask the Advisor – How can I reduce insurance premiums on my properties?
January / February 2011
Newsletter: Real Estate Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 433
Abstract: A higher deductible is one way to reduce premiums, but this issue’s “Ask the Advisor” offers four additional strategies that can be employed: Know the property’s fair market value; purchase insurance on the entire portfolio; time the market; and be cautious when seeking premium savings.
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A new twist on Sec. 1031 exchanges
January / February 2011
Newsletter: Real Estate Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 698
Abstract: Section 1031 exchanges can offer real benefits, but they also come with strict rules — such as time limits for completing the exchanges. Fortunately, a new twist on Sec. 1031 (or “like-kind”) exchanges may be available that could essentially double the length of one critical time limit. This article explains how this can help developers take advantage of the weak commercial real estate market and obtain valuable properties at reduced prices.
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A star is born: Measure and manage your energy performance
January / February 2011
Newsletter: Real Estate Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 710
Abstract: “Portfolio Manager,” a free, online, interactive energy management tool from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), can help real estate professionals manage water and energy consumption, benchmark energy performance, set investment priorities and earn EPA recognition that can increase the value of their properties. This article examines the details, while a sidebar describes the EPA’s expansion of Portfolio Manager to rate the energy performance of data centers housing high density computing equipment.
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Financing your next project – Why a public REIT may be the right way to go
January / February 2011
Newsletter: Real Estate Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 673
Abstract: Traditional bank financing is scarce for commercial real estate properties, driving some real estate professionals to pursue public real estate investment trusts (REITs) as a form of financing to repay maturing debt or to grow their portfolios while property values are low. This article describes some of the pros and cons of public REITs and explains requirements they must meet to maintain tax-favored status.
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The Contractor’s Corner – Many subcontractors struggle with surplus of idle workers
Winter 2011
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 435
Abstract: This issue’s “Contractor’s Corner” discusses a contractor who, facing a dearth of projects, is thinking about laying off employees. But this article offers possible options, such as determining the true costs of both active and idle workers, instituting pay cuts or job-sharing programs, or even “loaning” employees to friendly competitors.
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Take it step by step – The basics of savvy succession planning
Winter 2011
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 642
Abstract: Sooner or later, every construction company owner must relinquish control of his or her business. If the owner doesn’t want to sell the business to an outside party, it’s essential to find a family member or employee who can be trusted and believed in. This article shows the basics of savvy succession planning. It describes how to identify a leader and provide for heirs who won’t be involved in the business, and looks at issues involving management structure, buy-sell agreements and estate planning. It also mentions the importance of the owner finding him- or herself a new role after stepping down.
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A different animal – Federal projects bring a variety of challenges
Winter 2011
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 889
Abstract: The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (the “stimulus act”) appropriated billions of dollars in construction spending. Only now, however, are many of these projects finally arriving. But federal contracting warrants some careful preparation. These jobs are a far different animal from their privately funded counterparts. This article explains the types of competitors involved, the bidding process, and the tax ramifications. A sidebar points out that there are also ethical requirements involved.
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3 areas of fraud-proofing to focus on
Winter 2011
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 429
Abstract: As the economy continues to challenge everyone, the motivation for some employees to steal isn’t hard to understand. One way to divide and potentially conquer fraudsters is to focus on the three primary areas where fraud typically can occur: in the office, during banking transactions, and on the job site. This article offers tips.
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New credit makes health care coverage more affordable
Winter 2011
Newsletter: Nonprofit Observer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 307
Abstract: One of the provisions of 2010’s Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act is a health care tax credit for small employers, including nonprofits. The credit could significantly reduce health care costs — or enable nonprofits to offer employees coverage even where it might have seemed unaffordable. This article helps nonprofits determine whether they’re eligible.
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Unraveling the mystery of donor motivation
Winter 2011
Newsletter: Nonprofit Observer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 716
Abstract: People support charities not only for tax breaks and a vague sense of “giving back,” but also for a variety of other financial, emotional and social reasons. Understanding what motivates donors and how their motivations vary across demographic groups can help nonprofits more effectively reach and engage potential supporters. This article reviews research on the subject and suggests ways for organizations to use it.
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D&O insurance allows your board to do good, safely
Winter 2011
Newsletter: Nonprofit Observer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 564
Abstract: In the corporate world, directors and officers (D&O) liability insurance is considered a must-have. Unfortunately, many nonprofits fail to obtain this type of coverage because they think they’re less likely to have litigation concerns. But hundreds of nonprofits are sued every year. This article helps nonprofits determine if they need D&O insurance, and if so, what coverage they should or shouldn’t obtain.