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New philanthropists – ultra-wealthy individuals interested in being informed, strategic givers – have been growing in profile, and donations have been increasing. This paper from New Philanthropy Capital explores the opportunities for new philanthropists and established foundations to collaborate, the benefits of such collaborations, and the ways in which they might work.

Despite difficult economic times, a new generation of wealthy, socially aware individuals is giving more to their favorite causes. A research report from Barclays describes these individuals as more global in outlook, more ambitious in trying to effect social change, more impatient in reaching charitable goals, more demanding of accountability by charities and more willing to take measured risks in giving.

The authors explore the impact of the current economic downturn on philanthropy and provide recommendations for philanthropists and their advisors on charitable giving during these difficult times. Case studies show how a range of entrepreneurial philanthropists are responding to the challenges brought about by the recession.

Organizations that invest in leadership development perform better than those that don't. Challenging economic times underscore this fact even more, according to independent reports collected by the Center for Creative Leadership. Studies show investment in leadership development improves financial performance, attracts and retains talent, drives a performance culture and increases company agility.

The new administration has turned 2009 into a year of changes in state, gift and income tax laws – and more changes are expected before the year ends. Credit Suisse Securities (USA) provides an update on the extension of the IRA charitable rollover as well as changes to the gift tax annual exclusion, the generation-skipping transfer tax, and family partnerships and valuation discounts.

Charities submit grant proposals; funders read the proposals and decide where to make their contributions. Both groups benefit when grants are structured to create the greatest positive impact and make prudent use of available funds. In this paper, New Philanthropy Capital looks at what makes grants successful and how they can be structured best.

Bank of America's 2008 study of philanthropy offers a closer look at giving, including reasons why ultra-wealthy families give to charity and how much they give, why families stop giving, how they transmit charitable values to their children and the types of philanthropic advice they seek from advisors.

Companies that manage their people, or talent, successfully are in good position to weather volatile times and emerge in better shape than ever. Deloitte offers suggestions beyond downsizing to align short-term budget-trimming needs with companies' long-term personnel strategies and overall business objectives.

Despite its challenges, the current economic environment offers opportunities that can benefit family-owned businesses. This article from the Beringer Group encourages family businesses to consider the possibilities that may exist in acquisitions, corporate restructurings, internal buyouts, succession planning and estate planning.

Family businesses are perceived as having endemic problems, such as governance and succession issues, but their strengths – long-term perspective, stable leadership and strong identity – can give them a competitive advantage. This report from Barclays Wealth examines how family businesses are faring in today's challenging economic, financial and operating environment.