Year-end tax planning is always challenging, but the coronavirus pandemic has added a whole new layer of complexity to the equation for individuals, families, and businesses across the nation. The potential tax ramifications are significant. There are a number of tax developments to consider for the current tax year.
Thinking that you have to trade off financial performance and sustainability is a “false dichotomy” and a “ridiculous mindset,” according to Alan Jope, CEO of Unilever, one of the largest consumer goods companies on the planet. In this episode, Jope shares his visions and the actions taken to make them a reality: creating an...
The process of finding a charity and donating money seems simple. However, just like portfolio asset allocation, slightly different approaches can yield dramatically different results in your wealth management strategy. See how they change when looking at comparable after-tax benefits of three basic methods of charitable giving.
A growing demand for a more equitable and inclusive society has emerged in a year marked by turmoil and uncertainty. Fixed income issuers are starting to respond to that demand by offering social bonds. Through this innovative vehicle, see how muni investors have the ability to effect systemic change and make a positive impact on society.
The housing market’s role as one of the key drivers of the current recovery has been notable and stands in stark contrast to its role as a key driver of the last recession (2008-2009). Its surprising resilience is due in part to the pandemic-induced demand for housing, ultra-low interest rates, and pre-pandemic demographic trends. The longer-...
Washington will be a different place under a Biden administration, but it won’t be a different enough to cause a seismic shift across the investment landscape. While some observers fear a divided government may inevitably lead to gridlock, a more likely outcome is compromise—meeting halfway in a few areas. It will be a mixed bag for mun...
Actions demonstrate what it means to be a sustainable business. And in times of crisis, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, companies show through their actions how they balance societal concerns and profit motives. Further, companies that find a role in addressing this crisis can use this opportunity to do well in the world and to chart new long-term b...
Portfolio customization is growing in popularity among equity investors—but does it have a place in the bond market? Learn about the benefits of stratified cells.
Although municipal credit downgrades and defaults are on the rise in the COVID-19 environment, most municipal issuers are entering this downturn from a place of strength. Learn why some sectors are more resilient than others.
When making a decision on whether to participate in a Qualified Opportunity Zone investment (QOZ), be prepared to evaluate the risks and regulatory requirements. This report provides an overview on QOZ, including compliance issues and due diligence checklists for investors, advisors, and managers. It is a way of seeing whether a proposed investment...
One of the challenges for investors in today’s municipal bond market is the level of yields. Even though relative value remains attractive, absolute yields are uninspiring. However, other metrics show there’s a compelling case for picking up yield and going long.
Against the backdrop of a pandemic and market volatility that is expected to continue through 2020, there are key factors that can help investors gain clarity amid uncertainty. No matter what comes, the ones who embrace flexibility and transparency may be best positioned to navigate through the turbulence and move forward.
Are the potential benefits of premium munis worth the high cost to investors? Find out why avoiding them may lead to missing out on great value, beginning with understanding the relationship between a bond’s yield, price, and coupon rate to make sound judgments.
The treatment of capital gains and taxes become a little more complicated when considering a mutual fund investment. There are two scenarios where a mutual fund investor may end up paying more in capital gains taxes than expected. And the amount you pay may not depend only on you.
As an alternative to ETFs, investors are seeing the value of investing in separately managed accounts (SMAs), which offer diversified, index-like, and customizable exposure. However, what does it mean for investors who already hold a basket of appreciated ETFs but would like to unlock the potential of SMAs? This dilemma is explored through a reason...