Search Results

Most investors believe an index-based ETF, ETN or swap will give them an experience similar to the equity markets, where an index-based product represents an unbiased view of the market portfolio, using market capitalization as weights. Unfortunately, this intuition proves misguided due to important differences in how these indexes are constructed.

Commodity allocations in model portfolios have moved from being exotic to commonplace. The benefits being sought by such allocations typically include protection against inflation and diversification. While commodity allocations can serve both of these roles handily, the manner in which some clients implement these strategies potentially reduces th...

Frontier markets are considered to be low-liquidity outsiders beyond developed and emerging markets. They offer the potential for strong long-term returns and diversification benefits at a reasonable level of volatility. However, they come with significant risks that need to be factored into an investment strategy.

While political upheaval in the region is a legitimate concern for investors, the tumult provides an entry point into what may become an increasingly important market. Economic fundamentals are strong, the regional GDP is improving, and governments are supporting programs and infrastructure to facilitate growth.

Private equity investing is not without its challenges. However, long-term returns argue for exposure to this asset class for sophisticated investors. The most important considerations are structure of the investment program, access to top-tier performers, and knowledge about emerging private equity firms.

This paper addresses the options families have for investment education and offers basic direction for getting a true junior investment club off the ground. Contents include: --Five questions for families considering a junior investment club --Developmental options for investment education --Alternatives to true investment clubs --What is a jun...

Becoming thoughtful and intentional about altruism and the passion to make a difference is the difference between having good intentions and being intentional about our values and commitments to others. This newsletter offers tips on how to give better, helps 'tween philanthropists ask seven critical questions about giving, and provides a visual wa...

We continue to recommend that investors focus on high-quality general obligation and essential services municipal bonds as the core of their bond portfolios. We also continue to recommend that investors maintain shorter-than-benchmark durations in order to dampen the risks of rising interest rates.

Philanthropy appears set to increase among the wealthy, according to a survey of millionaires in 20 countries. The United States, Ireland, South Africa and India lead in donations of both money and time.

In normal markets, typical long/short funds show beta behavior similar to that of long-only funds. With certain specialized short positions, a declining equity market generates both higher profits and higher levels of short exposures. However, these funds may require large liquidity reserves for rebalancing.

Canada provides a safe and tax-efficient alternative for wealthy families seeking a residency strategy to protect their wealth and a place to set up a family office. The country has neither gift nor estate taxes and offers tax-reduction structures for wealth immigrating families.

U.S. investors can build international equity by investing directly in overseas markets or by purchasing shares of American depositary receipts. The method selected will have important implications for transaction costs, ongoing fees and benchmark tracking.

Suggestions for how to preserve a family legacy across generations include not letting shared assets become liabilities, recognizing that family businesses are businesses, communicating in the way that works best for family members, acknowledging family dynamics and choosing trustees carefully.

The holidays are a time for relaxing with family and friends. Unfortunately, criminals use this time to shift into high gear. Crime statistics from October indicate this year will be no exception to the historical trend, but you can take steps to help avoid becoming a victim of burglary or theft.

The authors present highlights from a series of seminars in which more than 80 trustees from charities of all kinds debated how they could make their charities more effective and shared ideas about improving trusteeship.