Universal Advisor | 2010 Issue 1 - Need Direction | Plante & Moran
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 2010 Issue 1 - Need Direction? 

 Plante & Moran's goal is to be your business advisor and provide step-by-step instructions to help you get from where you are today to where you'd like to be, whether it's next month, next year, or five years from now. That's the main reason we produce publications like Universal Advisor, to provide you with timely business advice to help address your organization's challenges.

There's been encouraging news lately. Experts are cautiously optimistic that the economy is beginning to improve. Still, we know there will be bumps in the road as we navigate the new landscape. Here's to finding our way together. 

In This Issue:

IFRS: The Choice is Yours

Private companies have a choice between U.S. GAAP and IRFS. Are you ready to make the right one? 

What's Your Energy Plan?

There's a wide array of federal, state, local, and utility programs available to help businesses reduce energy usage and cost. Here's how to leverage them. 

What Do the Latest Technology Trends Mean to You?

Here's our two cents on those strategic technology considerations that are top of mind for clients and what you should keep in mind if you're evaluating them. 

ThoughtWorks

ThoughtWorks is one of the most innovative, conscientious, and respected software companies in the world. It's also one of the most revolutionary. 

Potpourri

 FASB plans big changes for accounting standards, IRS improves correspondence with taxpayers, and measuring the success of your social media strategy. 

Conversations

 Industrial Opportunity Partners Managing Director and co-founder Adam Gottlieb recently sat down to talk with us about his view of the private equity landscape. 

Roth IRA Conversion: Should You, or Shouldn't You?

 2010 marks the beginning of a change in legislation where anyone can convert a traditional IRA to a Roth IRA and have future earnings free from income tax. What's the catch? 

Guaranteed Income Products: Are the Costs Worth the Benefits?

Research indicates that Americans are afraid of outliving their savings. One new vehicle to combat that concern is guaranteed income products ... but are the costs worth the potential benefits? 

The Resurgence of Mexico

 Many organizations are once again heading south of the border. What's driving the renewed interest? 

Debt Restructuring: The Strategy Behind the Negotiation

 Debt restructuring is an option for some struggling companies. Read about the steps involved, how to get creditor buy-in, and the tax ramifications of these out-of-court settlements. 

Weathering Economic Instability

 Within the context of the "new normal," economic variability may be even greater, and the need for broader diversification may be even more substantial.

Commercial Real Estate Loan Workouts: New Regulations Provide More Flexibility

Recently issued guidance by federal regulatory agencies should help accelerate real estate workouts. Financial transparency and a realistic view of the market are keys to success. 

FIN 48 & State Taxes - Turning Lemons Into Lemonade

 Many discussions have centered on the challenges inherent in satisfying FIN 48 requirements. Getting the most out of FIN 48 compliance, however, may only be a matter of accentuating the positive. 

In the Spotlight: P&M Corporate Finance's Value Optimization Assessment

The economic slowdown and tight credit markets create an excellent opportunity for companies contemplating a capital transaction to implement a VOA, which will improve the positioning for and outcome of the strategy. 

Happenings

Plante & Moran's spring webinar series kicks off March 25, Grand Rapids office receives LEEDS® Gold Certification, strong relationships yield good references, good FORTUNE comes to Plante & Moran, and Plante & Moran sponsors Michigan Energy Forum. 

Business Trends: Healthcare Reform

 Where does it stand, and what can you expect? 

Noticed a Tougher Banking Environment?

These days, even some companies with healthy balance sheets are facing increased pressure from their bank. Here's our prescription for navigating your bank's increased demands.

Universal Advisor Is Now Available Via E-mail!

Sign up to continue to receive Universal Advisor via e-mail. Readers of our electronic version will enjoy articles that are only available online. This issue, learn why your current bank is often your best bank.

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