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Master limited partnerships represent a niche asset class that is gaining attention for its attractive yield potential, historically low correlation to other asset classes, and potential tax benefits. Strong industry fundamentals, attractive valuations, and above-average dividend yields provide a compelling entry point for investors looking at MLPs.

Power failures, IT system crashes, supply chain problems or a flu epidemic can cripple a family office as completely as a natural disaster or terrorist attack. Developing and implementing a business continuity plan can help bolster a family business's defenses against such risks and serve as a first line of defense against losses.

Increased tax exemptions, continued availability of valuation discounts, historically low interest rates and depressed asset values have created a perfect storm for families interested in preserving their wealth. However, current opportunities may begin being eliminated as early as January 2012.

While foundation leaders have displayed a remarkable ability to adapt to change, economic and legislative uncertainty make fulfi lling their mission directives all the more arduous. This period of transition promises to be more than a temporary shift, and many foundation executives believe some fundamental changes are necessary.

Cyclical volatility appears to be a defining characteristic of contemporary financial markets. Researchers reflect on the past two decades to identify common factors behind financial crises and caution about where the next bubble might be forming. They also consider life after debt, the fate of the euro, the Asian factor, and what to do now.

The authors have contended since late 2008 that the global deleveraging process is likely to occur in multiple stages and last until 2014 or 2015. Investors need to be aware of this cycle in allocating assets and to focus on capital preservation while resisting the temptation to be swayed by short-term volatility.

Investors often overestimate the cyclical risk involved with high-yield bonds. Buying these bonds today with a 12- to 18-month horizon makes sense. An analysis of prior cycles shows that investors with such a horizon or longer can hold on and eventually see the benefits of declining spreads and current income.

Among the items on the list are basic tax-free gift opportunities, larger exempt gifts, tax-free transfers to credit shelters and family trusts, IRAs and retirement benefits, charitable contributions from IRAs, low interest rates related to leveraged gifting opportunities, decanting and creative planning with irrevocable trusts, and family C corporations.

This guide covers wealth management and tax planning strategies to consider before year-end and into 2012. Topics include tax management, wealth transfer planning, education funding, philanthropy, retirement, liabilities management, insurance, business owner issues, tax implications of health care reform, and building a strategic plan.

As an emerging asset class, energy-related master limited partnerships offer high and generally growing yields, an identifiable catalyst (significant build-out of the U.S. natural gas distribution infrastructure) to support continued growth, and favorable tax treatment. However, this type of MLP is quite complicated and deserves careful study.