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KPMG's 2009 Individual Income Tax and Social Security Rate Survey is a cross-border survey of personal tax and social security rates with historical data from 2003-2009. The report covers 86 countries, concentrating on the highest level of personal tax payable to the central government. For ease of comparison, the survey has excluded, where possible, other taxes such as state and municipal taxes.

Senior security, floating interest payments and covenant protection make these loans a unique asset class. Their historically steady returns, low volatility and negative correlation with investment-grade fixed income could enhance returns while reducing portfolio volatility.

Putting a financial value on social outcomes can help funders determine whether an organization is worth supporting, understand the impact that grantees are having and identify where organizations need help.

Family offices should develop an understanding of the requirements for health care benefit plans, implement the requirements on a timely basis and then continually monitor ongoing compliance.

True wealth transfer focuses on the synergies of various forms of family capital. The authors support shifting the definition of "success" from the singular transfer of financial wealth to helping the family develop a plan that considers the family's human capital and its relationship to the sustainability of the family's financial capital.

Despite the uncertainty regarding estate taxes, wealth owners still can take steps to ensure their estates are in the best possible position no matter what laws are passed.

Examining the impact of their behavior on the family client gives family office professionals insight into how to enhance their relationship with the family; it also highlights some of the ways in which their behavior may lead to unintended consequences.

Venture capital shows signs of recovery. Short-term returns have improved and investment volumes have increased to almost pre-crisis levels in the U.S. Analysis supports the notion that a vibrant VC market is conducive to technological progress and, thus, growth.

Be sure that your heirs have the information they need to access your online accounts.

Even with the recently enacted financial industry reform legislation, prudent investors should evaluate whether their advisors are truly acting in their best interest by examining nine areas in which a conflict of interest could exist.