Since the 2008 financial crisis, regulators at the Securities and Exchange Commission have been seeking ways to make money market funds safer. But their most recent proposals have some in the financial industry worried that future changes will undermine money … Continue reading
The extension of the Bush-era tax rates into 2012 gave investors more clarity, but the ongoing debate about federal deficit reduction proposals is adding to uncertainty about tax policy beyond this year. Given the dynamic tax landscape, it may be … Continue reading
Next year the federal estate tax environment will change dramatically unless legislation is passed in Washington. In fact, according to the Tax Policy Center, the number of estates subject to tax will increase by over ten times (roughly 3,600 taxable … Continue reading
Just days prior to the expiration of a payroll tax-cut provision, the U.S. House of Representatives and the Senate agreed to extend the cut into 2012. Congress also agreed to negotiate for a one-year extension. The provision, which went into … Continue reading
The signing of the Budget Control Act of 2011 into law on August 2, 2011, simultaneously raised the federal debt ceiling by $900 billion while enacting $917 billion in federal discretionary spending cuts over the next ten years. Additionally, the … Continue reading
Congress and the White House have reached an agreement to raise the federal debt ceiling and have approved a package of spending cuts this week, but not until after weeks of debate that added to growing uncertainty in the markets … Continue reading
A Senate proposal to eliminate the tax–exempt status of municipal bonds may change the municipal bond market after 2011 and is an important piece of legislation to follow in the coming months. The tax break for investors has been under … Continue reading
Government action on the nation’s deficit in the coming months may result in future tax increases, adding to the challenge of long-term planning. As a result, it makes sense for clients to focus on tax strategies now, and take advantage … Continue reading
A new provision in federal tax law allows surviving spouses to utilize any unused portion of their deceased spouse’s estate tax exemption — up to $5 million — to reduce their taxable estate. But this new rule of portability does … Continue reading
On February 14, 2011, President Obama unveiled the U.S federal government budget for fiscal year 2012, which includes steps to reduce the federal budget deficit by over $1 trillion over the next ten years. At roughly 2% lower than last … Continue reading
The outlook for the federal budget deficit and entitlement programs
How federal entitlement programs impact the national debt and why the current federal budget is unsustainable.
Income tax strategies and opportunities for investorsA number of income tax strategies may help investors take advantage of the advantageous tax rates in 2012.
Estate tax strategies and opportunities for investorsPotential estate tax planning opportunities for 2012.
Is a Roth conversion right for your clients?
Putnam's Roth IRA Conversion Evaluator is a quick and visual way to see if your client can benefit from a Roth conversion.
