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Against the backdrop of crisis and uncertainty, the 2020 U.S. presidential election presents key election issues pertaining to the economy. How will a potential Biden administration affect the economy and markets? An assessment of Biden’s proposed tax policies will show the expected impact. And if Trump wins, will it be the status quo and further refinement of the 2017 tax cut?

Ultimately, how well your wealth transfer plan fulfills your legacy and meets the needs of the next—and future—generations depends on whom you name as your trustee(s). This makes your selection one of the most critical aspects of an already complex wealth planning process. To help navigate this selection process, work with a framework built around understanding your specific needs and selection criteria across three core fiduciary capabilities.

Can investors capture market returns and harvest tax losses amid periods of high volatility? Find out how the markets in 2020 and in 2008 provide guidance for beneficial tax management during a crisis.

For families holding illiquid assets, anticipatory pre-liquidity planning can greatly improve asset protection, wealth transfer, and tax outcomes. Using Wyoming entities, a review of pre-liquidity planning strategies is provided with a snapshot on the state’s modern trust statues, asset protection laws, and tax laws. Families soon discover Wyoming also offers enhanced asset protection and retained control with an emphasis on administrative and cost efficiency.

The tax stakes are substantially higher in Massachusetts for the residents than they are for nonresidents. However, with the latest court ruling, Massachusetts estate tax can now apply to out-of-state trusts. The implications are significant, and they are a reminder that the Commonwealth takes an expansive view of its taxing authority in situations involving taxpayers with connections to multiple states.

Despite the challenging environment of COVID-19 and social unrest, having a sound framework can empower you to make wise financial wealth decisions. Good financial health does not keep markets from going down or being volatile, but it does allow portfolios to weather those storms without suffering lasting harm. The key is maintaining proper perspective and focus through comprehensive planning and sound habits.

Getting divorced is not only a highly emotional, it can also be complicated and challenging. Depending on your life stage, your family situation, and your life priorities, there will be different financial considerations. Whether you are financially savvy or have little experience in handling your finances, you will benefit from working through your many options with an experienced advisor. Tania Slade, National Director for Wealth Planning at BMO, shares tips to help you make better decisions during the divorce process.

The basic foundation for every core legacy plan starts with five documents: a will, an irrevocable or living trust, a durable power of attorney for financial management, an advanced medical directive, and a HIPAA release. John Forster, a partner with the law firm of Baker Hostetler, who has interviewed some of the most successful families in the U.S. shares his thoughts on how to get started with a core legacy plan and what you need to know.

By drastically increasing the federal estate and gift tax exemption, the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act created a significant estate tax mitigation opportunity for high-net-worth individuals and families. National Director of Wealth Strategies Blair Talty discusses how these strategies have indeed been strengthened during COVID-19.