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This article from Hammond Associates refutes conventional wisdom that says domestic equity indexes are more likely to outperform active managers in efficient markets, such as large-cap stocks, and more disposed to underperform active management in less efficient areas, such as small-cap stocks. The authors present an alternate theory that better ex...

Too much leverage, poor risk control and blindness to the bubble in the real estate industry have been cited as key factors in the financial crisis. Greycourt, however, points to another potential cause: A collapse of ethical behavior across the financial industry, particularly the loss of any sense of fiduciary responsibility to customers. This wh...

Global investment in physical infrastructure has been a prime driver of growth in emerging markets, but sustained growth also requires investment in an intangible infrastructure that many emerging nations lack. Credit Suisse identifies five pillars of intangible infrastructure (education, health care, development of the financial system, technologi...

Researchers from the Bank for International Settlements delve into why some companies remain private and how well the philosophy has worked for them. While control seems to be a key factor in companies remaining private, research by BIS shows privately held companies operate as efficiently as those that have gone public.

A new paper from Butterfield Private Office outlines private trust companies and how ultra-wealthy individuals and families can use them to manage a wide variety of assets while retaining a large measure of control over the administration of those assets.

It will take time to get the world economy back on track and the process will be difficult, Barclays Wealth says in its annual outlook. Researchers for Barclays summarize their current macroeconomic views and the implications for asset classes and investment in 2009. They also present their asset allocation recommendations and more specific investm...

Too often, family disputes over power and money are settled publicly in the courts, creating rifts among family members that may linger for decades. This article from Withers Bergman emphasizes the importance of transparency among family members and recommends non-legal solutions, such as the formation of a family council, regular family meetings, ...

Entrepreneurs have become increasingly important players in the global economy and have amassed fortunes in doing so. While a worldwide financial crisis would seem to work against them, some entrepreneurs see today's challenging economic environment as the land of opportunity. This report from Barclays Wealth explores what makes entrepreneurs succe...

A long-term investor seeking immediate, low-cost diversification may want to seriously consider exchange funds as a strategy, according to a paper from Atlantic Trust Private Wealth Management. The paper considers the risks and benefits of exchange funds and recommends paying careful attention to the fund's issuer and structure.

Two major changes have occurred in public company boards, both without regulatory impetus, according to SpencerStuart's 2007 Board Index. These are a more strategic, hands-on approach to identifying and screening new director candidates as well as revised director compensation packages.

Family businesses are most at risk for financial troubles based on a lack of formal succession planning and preparation, and on family business owners' personal financial issues, according to MassMutual Financial Group's 2007 American Family Business Survey. The survey also found that family businesses are growing in jobs and revenues, and ...

An inherited fortune may come with strings attached as wealthy families make a college education or job experience a condition of inheritance. About 60 percent of families with more than $10 million in assets place stipulations like these, according to a report on attaining and retaining wealth from Barclays Wealth. The report also discusses the im...

Complex extended families, generational differences, challenging economics and leadership issues are some of the challenges addressed in this article from RayLign Advisory. The author cites the need for family leadership to be proactive in dealing with the seven key realities he describes.

When it comes to reaching your family’s financial objectives and perpetuating its wealth, integrated family wealth planning is critical. A family governance system can significantly facilitate that process. This evergreen guide offers best practices and key elements of an effective family governance system, one that can be instrumental and flexible...

New breed philanthropists want their charitable activities to run with the same vigor as their business empires. This article from Credit Suisse gives several examples, including the Sainsbury retail dynasty's philanthropic model, which channels packages of support through specialized trusts.