Tax and Jurisdictions

Regulation - a double-edged sword

30 July, 2009 12:41 PM

Alexander Davidson

The financial crisis has changed the financial services industry as we know it. Markets are focusing more on risk management, stock markets are volatile and corporate bonds not as safe.

Put family at the heart of tax planning

23 July, 2009 03:52 PM

Tax is never far from the headlines in an average year, but it has demanded particular attention in 2009. Conscientious wealthy families and their family offices have been reassessing their tax arrangements in light of this hiatus of activity. However, it is important to remember that tax planning is much more than a simple financial calculation.

The onerous role of the trustee

9 July, 2009 12:41 PM

Henry Frydenson

Within the family office the role of the trustee is to safeguard assets and present investment options to the family. In today’s litigious society failure to manage these duties can be severe. Henry Frydenson outlines the pitfalls for trustees and offers advice on ways to avoid problems

Switzerland to prevent the disclosure of UBS clients

9 July, 2009 11:36 AM

The Swiss government announced yesterday it would seize UBS banking records rather than allow the US government to access the identities of 52,000 American UBS account holders, who include wealthy families.

Taking advantage of new tax changes

3 June, 2009 04:59 PM

Richard J Kollauf

On 17 February, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Tax Act of 2009 was signed into law. The Act included $300 billion in tax relief so if you own a business in the US or invest in a business in the US, it’s important to understand these changes and capitalise on them now.

Tax tips for a downturn

3 June, 2009 01:38 PM

Andrew Goldstone

One of the best ways to reduce inheritance tax (IHT) on your death is to give away assets during your lifetime. The problem is, a gift can trigger a large capital gains tax (CGT) bill if the asset has gone up in value during your period of ownership. That has always been a big disincentive to lifetime giving.