In January 2021, online day traders trapped institutional short sellers in a short squeeze by buying up shares of the video and computer game retailer GameStop. This episode brought attention to a number of issues including the distinction between securities traders vs. investors for federal income tax purposes. Traders are eligible for favorable federal income tax treatment for…

Many people are uncomfortable discussing with heirs how they will distribute their estate. Perhaps you don’t want your children to realize how much they may receive after your death. Or you may think your choice of heirs could change in the future. However, if you don’t discuss your estate plan, disagreements and conflicts could erupt once…

Value is relative. Some assignments call for an appraisal of the entire entity on a controlling basis. Others require the valuation of a minority interest that may lack control and “marketability.” How do these situations differ — and how do valuators account for these differences? Level of Value The ability to control a business has value….