2011

Showing 641–649 of 649 results

  • Accounting for financial instruments – Proposal foretells major impact on banks

    Winter 2011
    Newsletter: Community Banking Advisor

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 1019

    Abstract: The Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) is considering proposed changes in accounting for financial instruments and plans to adopt final standards by June 2011. If adopted, the proposal — which calls for most financial instruments to be measured at fair value — would have a significant impact on the way banks account for loans, deposits and investments. It also would change the way banks measure credit impairment and calculate loan loss reserves. This article discusses some of the details, while a sidebar looks at FASB’s new credit risk and loan loss disclosure requirements.

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  • CRM software – Cultivating customer relationships

    Winter 2011
    Newsletter: Auto Focus

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 484

    Abstract: Customer relationship management (CRM) software can help dealers improve sales closing ratios and build long-term customer relationships. But to maximize their return on this tool, they need to get all employees on board. This article shows how a properly implemented CRM system can dramatically improve sales, lower marketing costs and build customer loyalty.

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  • How to win over lenders

    Winter 2011
    Newsletter: Auto Focus

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 672

    Abstract: With lenders still clutching their pocketbooks tightly these days, what can dealers do to loosen them up? This article discusses strengthening one’s balance sheet, days-in-inventory ratio, and income statement; preparing to meet with a lender; and fostering a long-term relationship with the lender.

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  • The best defense is a good offense – Internal controls can thwart employee fraud

    Winter 2011
    Newsletter: Auto Focus

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 645

    Abstract: An auto dealership that puts strong internal controls in place — and tests them frequently — will likely discourage anyone in the store who’s considering theft and thwart or catch those who are more daring. This article stresses the importance of segregating duties and limiting access to cash and inventory, while offering additional tips for discouraging theft or dishonesty at all levels.

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  • On your mark, get set, go – 5 ways to prepare for market recovery

    Winter 2011
    Newsletter: Auto Focus

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 864

    Abstract: New vehicle sales figures for the last half of 2010 show signs of recovery. And many analysts predict more good news ahead. This article lists five things dealers can do to be ready for an uptick in 2011, including fostering a team environment and catering to the customer. A sidebar cautions, however, that a large percentage increase in sales growth might not be as impressive as it appears.

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  • When settlement proceeds are taxable

    January / February 2011
    Newsletter: Advocate's Edge / Litigation Support

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 499

    Abstract: The Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals has affirmed a Tax Court ruling that settlement proceeds received for false imprisonment aren’t excludable from taxable income under Internal Revenue Code Section 104(a)(2). This article discusses the opinion, which offers a valuable reminder of the two-pronged test for exclusion of income.

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  • FLP update – Court sides with IRS over bona fide business arrangements

    January / February 2011
    Newsletter: Advocate's Edge / Litigation Support

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 724

    Abstract: Family limited partnerships (FLPs) offer advantages for some taxpayers, but the IRS continues to challenge these arrangements on several theories. This article summarizes one recent case, Holman v. Commissioner. In Holman, the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals held that, because the FLP at issue didn’t satisfy the “bona fide business arrangement” requirement, its transfer restrictions shouldn’t be considered when calculating the valuation discount for shares of the FLP.

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  • Are your clients prepared to handle a fraud disaster?

    January / February 2011
    Newsletter: Advocate's Edge / Litigation Support

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 645

    Abstract: Few businesses have considered — let alone documented — what they’d do if they found employees embezzling funds, stealing inventory or fudging financial statements. This article looks at the importance of having a fraud contingency plan, and what such a plan entails. It also describes how forensic accountants and computer experts can preserve evidence and conduct interviews in a way that helps establish their validity in court.

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  • Be reasonable – How business compensation can affect divorce cases

    January / February 2011
    Newsletter: Advocate's Edge / Litigation Support

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 846

    Abstract: When a divorcing spouse owns or is a partner in a closely held business, its value — particularly the amount of compensation the business provides to its owners — can play a significant role in the divorce case’s financial outcome. This article discusses the factors a professional valuator considers to determine reasonable compensation. A sidebar talks about issues that affect the credibility of expert testimony on reasonable compensation.

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