The current state of the economy, an incumbent president with an active agenda, new offshore reporting requirements, as well as other recent changes will make 2014 a pivotal year for taxpayers.Continue Reading
2013 Year End Notes, Part 4: Asset Protection Considerations
Asset Protection for Financial Professionals, Hedge Fund Managers and Investment Advisors
During 2013, we have seen the growth of a new group of clients interested in asset protection: investment advisors, hedge fund managers and other financial professionals. This group is faced with an increase in lawsuits brought by litigious investors against their financial advisors and those charged with making investment decisions. As investors seek to blame others for investment losses, they are now suing fund managers and investment advisors personally, in addition to the fund itself or the advisor’s employer. In the past, it was routine to sue the fund or financial institution; naming the fund manager or investment advisor personally is relatively new, but a phenomenon that we are seeing in increasing numbers.Continue Reading
2013 Year End Notes, Part 3: Offshore Considerations
During 2013, the IRS and U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) continued to successfully attack offshore banking “secrecy”. The IRS’ success against UBS and other banks eroded Swiss banking secrecy, effectively ending “going offshore” to hide money from the IRS. Going offshore for asset protection from civil creditors, however, is still viable and effective, but must be tax-compliant.Continue Reading