In a new research report from Deutsche Bank, analysts examine the causes and effects of what is likely to become Germany's worst economic downturn of the post-war period. Looking ahead, analysts believe stabilization could set in gradually in the second half of this year, but they do not expect an upturn until 2010.
While British investors are more cautious and pessimistic than they were six months ago, their confidence has not declined as much as might be expected given the severity of market sell-offs. A biannual survey by the Investment Management Association also finds there is a growing group of investors who see the credit crunch as providing good invest...
A new report from BlackRock highlights the more significant flaws in the hedge fund business model, remedies that could repair the industry's damaged reputation and reasons why hedge fund and fund of funds strategies remain compelling in 2009 and beyond.
A new paper from Withers examines a privy council decision upholding, in large part, a post-nuptial agreement made by a wealthy couple. Given the landmark decision in MacLeod v MacLeod, the authors say, some couples may want to clarify the financial arrangements between them by entering into a post-nuptial agreement.
Recent tax court cases have shown the ongoing administration of family limited partnerships is as important as making sure the transaction was properly structured at the outset. Withers Bergman says the family office is a natural fit for ensuring such administration because of its day-to-day involvement with family members and their holdings.
An economic downturn can accentuate the drivers of fraud and misconduct within companies, according to KPMG's third national integrity survey. Researchers found that 75 percent of employees had observed or knew of wrongdoing within their organizations. Ethics and compliance programs seemed to make employees more willing to report the misconduct the...
Individuals who have been diagnosed with cancer can do much to influence the course of their illness and improve their quality of life. This comprehensive guide from PinnacleCare can help patients navigate the healthcare system to get the best possible treatment outcomes.
Investing in energy is not without its risks, such as the volatility of commodity prices, funding concerns and regulatory uncertainty. However, Neuberger Berman believes this sector offers promising, long-term investment opportunities due to the move to a lower carbon-energy diet and its reliance on alternative energy sources and conservation.
Six hedge fund experts, including the chief executive of a major family office in Europe, candidly discuss some of the more topical themes within the hedge fund community at a special roundtable convened by Horizon Cash Management.
European firms have grown into formidable carbon competitors, due to the establishment of the EU Emissions Trading Scheme. That makes North American companies the new kids on the block in the global carbon market. This article from Natsource highlights market strategies employed by companies in the early stages of the EU ETS and offers insights for...
A Rothstein Kass report finds that biotechnology executives are becoming more creative in their financing approaches, creating a climate ripe for consolidation and strategic alliances. Investors who viewed an initial public offering as an exit strategy are being replaced by those with longer horizons and by better capitalized industry participants ...
Cyber-criminals continue to show their creativity in accessing private information and inserting malicious code in the computer systems of unsuspecting companies and individuals. Finjan Software's most recent report on Web security trends highlights new areas of concern, including the use of Flash files, such as eye-catching banner ads, and PDF fil...
Taxes may always be with us, but not necessarily in the same way depending on where we live. Deutsche Bank takes a global look at income tax, comparing tax scales, types of deductions and tax systems from one country to another.
Individuals give to charitable causes with hopes that they are making a difference. Unfortunately, they rarely are given enough information to assess the success of individual programs. This white paper from Newdea discusses how donors and non-profits can work together to create a standard platform for information so that both know which programs a...
Social campaigning, or advocacy, can bring societal wrongs to light and better humanity. But how can a charity or social group raise government and individual awareness of a societal problem enough to help many people in need and give a voice to the disadvantaged? This report from New Philanthropy Capital offers guidance for charities and their don...