To Euro or Not to Euro
2/1/2012 | 3:54 PM
The Euro, at its inception in 1999, was looked upon favorably by
most. This shared currency among the countries belonging
to the European Union was thought to be a fast-track to a stronger
economy for the continent, improved collaboration throughout the
region, porous trade borders and increased efficiency in tourist
spending. Now, a decade later, we find several countries
teetering on the brink of bankruptcy, another few in troubled
waters, the world watching and markets whipsawing.
Where did this seemingly "great" idea go so wrong? Simple; shared monetary policy but no corresponding shared fiscal policy.
Tax---One of Life's Guarantees
1/5/2012 | 12:41 PM
Tax mitigation, and thus wealth enhancement, is a primary concern
of the affluent. The infinite uncertainty of pending tax law
does nothing to ease this strife. Two particular pieces of
legislation being hotly debated center on the payroll tax deduction
and so-called "millionaires' tax." As 2011 came to a close,
Congress implemented a temporary extension (through February) of
the reduction in employee contributions to Social Security,
maintaining a 4.2% rate vs. the original 6.2%. One of the
many proposals floating around to fund this cut beyond February is
a surcharge on incomes above $1 million, championed by
several
Power of the Elf
12/16/2011 | 3:24 PM
Motivation comes from many sources, elves notwithstanding.
This time of year, children have a particular interest in the
potential treasures awaiting them under the Christmas tree.
To ensure their wish list objectives are met in full, kids put on
their West Point-finest behavior and march in line like never
before.
The latest phenomenon to ensure this order-following continues throughout the month of December is the arrival of the Elf on the Shelf. If you’re unfamiliar, check it out here: www.elfontheshelf.com. With this Elf comes an element of mystery, fear, respect, and an almost guaranteed "yes-sir, yes
College Savings Iowa
12/16/2011 | 2:24 PM
College Savings Iowa – What’s the Maximum Deductible Limit? Also, Some Changes are Coming!
For 2011, you may deduct from your Adjusted Gross Income a maximum contribution to College Savings Iowa of $2,865 per beneficiary on your State of Iowa income tax return. If you’re married, your spouse may contribute that amount as well. There’s still time left to contribute. Make sure your check is postmarked or your automatic deposit is posted no later than December 31, 2011.
If you’re planning for 2012, the maximum allowable deduction will be $2,975 per beneficiary. That’s right; 2
Needs vs Wants
11/30/2011 | 7:12 AM
In our ever-evolving and never-ending personal battle of needs vs. wants, author Carl Richards frames up the issue in a style much better than I can. Enjoy and relate...
http://bucks.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/10/17/the-struggle-to-define-what-we-truly-need/
