The Washington Update from Andy Friedman

Investing in a Rising Tax Environment 2012

The Bush tax cuts are slated to expire at the end of 2012 and it is quite unclear Congress and the Administration will agree to extend them -- at least for affluent families -- in this election year. This white paper reviews strategies investors and advisors can consider now that may blunt the effects of future tax increases.
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The “Super Committee” Fails: What Happens Now?

The Congressional “Super Committee” failed to agree on a deficit reduction plan before its November 23 deadline. The Committee’s failure triggers a process called “sequestration,” under which automatic spending cuts of $1.2 trillion are implemented over ten years beginning in 2013.  The failure also will lead to a string of legislative decisions -- most crucially involving taxes -- that must be made in the coming year. Read more...

Investment Opportunities and The High Federal Budget Deficit

The federal budget deficit is projected to reach a new high in 2011, exceeding even the record deficits of recent years. The high deficit may portend ominous consequences for the economy and the government’s ability to continue to function in its present state. But it also provides opportunities for investors. This white paper describes the extent to which Washington is likely to address the federal budget deficit and how investors can profit from -- or at least blunt the negative effects of -- the current fiscal situation. Read more...

Preparing for a Secure Retirement: The 401(k) Rollover

The recent decline in asset values has demonstrated the importance of investing retirement assets wisely. Now more than ever it is important that assets be invested to produce a reliable income stream, have the potential for appreciation, and lower downside risk. This white paper discusses how financial advisors can gather assets and help investors take control of their retirement investments by moving the assets to IRAs, and in what circumstances clients are permitted and advised to do so.  Read more...