Knowledge Exchange

Investments

Search

Quantum Computing Investments: Key Players, Risks, and Opportunities for 2025

Billy Amberg of Bloomwood is a member of XPX Atlanta
Billy Amberg
Bloomwood
6 days ago

Listen to this post as a podcast: www.adviserinfo.sec.gov). Please read the disclosure statement carefully before you engage our firm for advisory services. The information provided is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice and it should not be relied on as such. It should not be considered a solicitation to buy or an offer to sell a security. It does not take into account any investor’s particular investment objectives, strategies, tax status or investment horizon. You should consult your attorney or tax advisor.   The views expressed in this commentary are subject to change based on the market and other conditions. These documents may contain certain statements that may be deemed forward-looking statements. Please note that any such statements are not guarantees of any future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected. Any projections, market outlooks, or estimates are based upon certain assumptions and should not be construed as indicative of actual events that will occur.    All information has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but its accuracy is not guaranteed.  There is no representation or warranty as to the current accuracy, reliability, or completeness of, nor liability for, decisions based on such information and it should not be relied on as such. Bloomwood is a registered investment advisor. Advisory services are only offered to clients or prospective clients where Bloomwood and its representatives are properly licensed or exempt from licensure. 730 Starlight Lane, Atlanta, GA 30342.

Private Equity and Privately Held Businesses

John Dini of The Exit Planning Coach is a member of XPX San Antonio
John F Dini
The Exit Planning Coach
4 months ago

Depending on who you are talking to, Private Equity is either the Great Satan or the savior of small and mid-market companies in the United States. The stories depend a lot on the personal experience of the speakers. Once a vehicle for high-risk investment plays in corporate takeovers (see Bryan Burrough’s Barbarians at the Gate,) Private Equity has morphed into tranches where specialists seek opportunities in everything from a Main Street entrepreneurship to multi-billion-dollar entities. What is Private Equity? The term itself is relatively generic. According to Pitchbook, there are currently 17,000 Private Equity Groups (or PEGs) operating in the US. The accepted business model for our purposes is a limited partnership that raises money to invest in closely held companies. The purpose is plain. Well-run private businesses typically produce a better return on investment than publicly traded entities. The current Price to Earnings (or PE – just to be a little more confusing) ratio of the S&P 500 is about 27.5. This is after a long bull market has raised stock prices considerably. The ratio is up 11.5% in the last year. That means the average stock currently returns 3.6% profit on its price. Of course, the profits are not usually distributed to the shareholders in their entirety. Compare that to the 18% to 25% return many PEGs promise their investors. It’s easy to see why they are a favorite of high net worth individuals, hedge funds and family offices. As the Private Equity industry has matured and diversified, they have even drawn investment from the usually more conservative government and union pension funds. Private Equity Types Among those 17,000 PEGs the types range from those who have billions in “dry powder” (investable capital,) to some who claim to know of investors who would probably put money into a good deal if asked. Of course, which type of PEG you are dealing with is important information for an owner considering an offer. private equity moneyThe “typical” PEG as most people know it has a fund for acquisitions. It may be their first, or it may be the latest of many funds they’ve raised. This fund invests in privately held businesses. Traditionally PEGs in the middle market space would only consider companies with a free cash flow of $1,000,000 or greater. That left a plethora of smaller businesses out of the game. For a dozen years I’ve been writing about the pending flood of exiting Boomers faced with a lack of willing and able buyers. I should have known better. Business abhors a vacuum. Searchfunders Faced with an overabundance of sellers and a dearth of capable buyers, Private Equity spawned a new model to take advantage of the market, the Searchfunders. These are typically younger individuals, many of whom graduated from one of the “EBA” (Entrepreneurship By Acquisition) programs now offered by almost two dozen business schools. These programs teach would-be entrepreneurs how to seek out capital, structure deals, and conduct due diligence. Some Searchfunders are “funded”, meaning they have investors putting up a stipend for their expenses. Others are “self-funded.” They find a deal, and then negotiate with investment funds to back them financially. Both PEGs and Searchfunders seek “platform” companies, those that have experienced management or sufficiently strong operational systems to absorb “add-on” or “tuck-in” acquisitions. The costs of a transaction have bumped many seasoned PEGs into $2,000,000 and up as a cash flow requirement. Searchfunders have happily moved into the $500,000 to $2,000,000 market. In the next article we’ll discuss how PEGs can promise returns that are far beyond the profitability of the businesses they buy.

Structured Installment Sales – An IRS Approved, Tax Efficient Solution to Maximize the Sale of a Business

Chad Ettmueller of JCR Settlements, LLC is a member of XPX Atlanta
Chad D. Ettmueller
JCR Settlements, LLC
1 year ago

Structured Installment Sales offer a fantastic solution to the tax issues surrounding the sale of business or property.  Approved by the IRS, a Section 453 Structured Installment Sale allows individuals to defer taxes, maximize the sale and secure their financial futures. Take a look at our brochure and visit our website for more information.  We look forward to helping you where and when appropriate.

Case Study: Real Estate-Rich, Cash-Poor

Stephen Davis of Safe Harbor Asset Management is a member of XPX Tri-State
Stephen K Davis
Safe Harbor Asset Management
1 year ago

Aging Property Owners with Passive Income Needs for Retirement At Safe Harbor Asset Management, we frequently receive inquiries from investors considered real estate-rich and cash-poor, who have locked up most of their wealth in assets like real estate that are difficult to convert into cash. Read More:  

Structured Installment Sales: Defer Taxes, Maximize the Sale, Secure Your Financial Future

Chad Ettmueller of JCR Settlements, LLC is a member of XPX Atlanta
Chad D. Ettmueller
JCR Settlements, LLC
1 year ago

Defer Taxes, Maximize the Sale, Secure the Financial Future…. Chad Ettmueller – JCR Settlements, LLC. What if you could offer your clients a way to sell their business, property or other appreciated asset and avoid immediate tax obligations while growing the net proceeds in an attractive, tax-deferred manner with future payments they design unique to their needs? If it seems too good to be true, you need to explore Structured Installment Sales (SIS).  Following approved IRS guidelines under IRC Section 453, Structured Installment Sales allow an individual the unique opportunity to defer their immediate tax obligation by placing a portion of their net proceeds into an annuity product with highly rated life insurance carriers. In so doing the Seller avoids constructive receipt of the funds and the IRS cannot tax them on that portion of the sale. Sellers can design a future payment schedule that meets their unique needs, realizing significant income growth through the investment (as high as 10% depending on the design), paying a deferred tax obligation in the future year(s) when annuity payment is received. The Seller will pay both a pro-rated Capital Gains tax (at the cap-gains rate in the year payment is received) and a pro-rated Ordinary Income tax on the interest earned. Traditional Installment Sales transact between the Buyer and the Seller and are wrought with risk, as the Seller is dependent on the creditworthiness of the Buyer and is hoping they will successfully make the future payments. A SIS changes everything, placing the creditworthiness of the life insurance company at the forefront of the transaction and allowing both parties to move forward without future risk. Moreover, as a result of the investment growth associated with the annuity, the Seller can quite often entertain offers that are lower than they have targeted, knowing the investment yield will more than make up for the difference. Combine that growth with the immediate tax savings on the portion placed into the annuity and the Structured Installment Sale offers a serious solution to many sales transactions. In fact, more and more savvy Buyers are making offers wherein they incorporate a SIS as part of their offer. As a result, they are able to offer the Seller (ultimately) more than asking price while securing the property or business at a discounted price, providing them more immediate operating capital to make necessary enhancements to the property or business. If all of this is not exciting enough, there are other highlights to the Structured Installment Sale: – Seller can defer first payment up to 40 years. – No investment minimums or maximums. – Include future payment schedules to match future needs, including monthly, quarterly, semi-annual or annual payments and    lump sums on identified future dates. – Index linked, market-based growth, with a guaranteed floor payment and uncapped growth based on market performance. – For use in the sale of businesses, real estate or appreciated asset collections (art collections, vintage vehicles, wine, etc.) – Backed by highly rated life insurance markets. SHOW ME THE MONEY Please take a look at the attached illustration for a real life example of how the product works and the type of income such a solution can produce.  The highlighted area on page 3 will show the projected yields.  Pages 5-6 will show the projected monthly income. As a quick example, a 51-year-old Seller in Florida sold his business for $25M. He placed $10M of the purchase into a Structured Installment Sale, saving approximately $1M in immediate tax obligations.  He deferred first payment 14 years, to his age 65, taking monthly payments for twenty (20) years thereafter. Based on the projected growth of the Indexed linked annuity, and back testing, all the way back to 2006, the Seller is projected to earn between $50.5 and $157M, with a projected median growth of $85.5M. These are jaw dropping numbers to say the least and illustrate the power of the product. KEY CONSIDERATIONS To comport with IRS guidelines, the payment schedule for any SIS must be incorporated into the Sales Agreement as an addendum to the sale. All parties must sign an assignment document, acknowledging the fact that all future payments are forthcoming from the life company, and not the Buyer. Payment for the annuity must go directly from the Buyer to the Life Insurance Company with whom the SIS is placed to avoid constructive receipt by the Seller. If funds are deposited into the Seller’s account, this will trigger constructive receipt in the eyes of the IRS and an immediate tax obligation will be required and a structured installment sale cannot take place. Depreciation Recapture cannot be placed into a SIS. All depreciation recapture must be recorded and appropriate taxes paid in the year of sale. Deposits of more than $5M into the SIS will trigger an IRS Interest Penalty on an annual basis. This penalty is nominal and an annual lump sum equal to the penalty amount can be established, through the future payment schedule of the annuity, to pay this obligation. Structured Installment Sales offer a remarkable advantage to all parties involved in a given transaction and should be considered in nearly every sale. There are no associated costs to establish a structured installment sale now, or in the future. However, such a sale must be coordinated by a licensed and appointed annuity advisor. JCR Settlements enjoys serving as a Gold Sponsor of XPX and looks forward to assisting you and your clients, as appropriate. Please do not hesitate to call or email with any questions or to request an investment illustration. Chad Ettmueller Senior Vice President JCR Settlements, LLC 770-886-7400 cettmueller@jcrsettlements.com

For Investors and Conduits to Investors: Meet 34 of the Best Startups at the 3rd Annual Virtual Angel Venture Fair

Marc Kramer of Stress Free Family Business is a member of XPX Philadelphia
Marc Kramer
Stress Free Family Business
2 years ago

The third annual Virtual Angel Venture Fair featuring 34 companies, chosen by 80 judges, in such industries as biotechnology, consumer product, ecommerce, education, electronics, fintech, food, health care, medias, software and sports will present on Zoom next on the following mornings: June 28, 2022 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. EST (One Zoom link is for each day)  Virtual Angel Venture Fair   (Every attendee will get an electronic book) 27-Jun Presenting Company Presenter 10 a.m. to 10:15 a.m. OXbyEL Technologies, Inc. 10:15 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Blind Tiger, LLC 10:30 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. Carmell Therapeutics 10:45 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. ChromaTan Inc. 11:15 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Clarigent Health 11:30 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. Daysheets 11:45 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. DRSLINQ. 12:00 p.m. to 12:15 p.m. Drusolv Therapeutics 12:15 p.m. to 12:30 p.m. Endomedix, Inc. 12:30 p.m. to 12:45 p.m. envoyatHome, Inc. 12:45 p.m. to 1 p.m. Epilogue Systems, Inc 1 p.m. to 1:15 p.m. AeroPest 28-Jun Presenting Company Presenter 10 a.m. to 10:15 a.m. Ethicann Pharmaceuticals Inc., 10:15 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. ExpressCells 10:30 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. GoWell Benefits 10:45 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. iQure Pharma 11:15 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Martell Diagnostics 11:30 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. Muse Engine 11:45 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. nicklpass 12:00 p.m. to 12:15 p.m. Nollapelli 12:15 p.m. to 12:30 p.m. Nuelehair LLC 12:30 p.m. to 12:45 p.m. Orthoforge, Inc. 12:45 p.m. to 1 p.m. WealthMore 1 p.m. to 1:15 p.m. seekQ 29-Jun Presenting Company Presenter 10 a.m. to 10:15 a.m. Pelex 10:15 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Pneumeric, Inc. 10:30 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. Praktika.ai Company 10:45 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Pure Blue Tech Inc. 11:15 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Score Pharma 11:30 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. Papaya Tutor 11:45 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Siva Therapeutics, Inc. 12:00 p.m. to 12:15 p.m. SkillMil Inc 12:15 p.m. to 12:30 p.m. Splntellx, Inc. 12:30 p.m. to 12:45 p.m. Vizulingo Inc. 12:45 p.m. to 1 p.m. PCI Global Inc.

Taxes: The Chess Game for the Ultra Wealthy (Podcast Interview)

Stephen Davis of Safe Harbor Asset Management is a member of XPX Tri-State
Stephen K Davis
Safe Harbor Asset Management
2 years ago

Delighted to share an interview I recently conducted on the Commercial Real Estate Shark Eye Podcast. Where I take a deep dive into: My personal story, building my business in the early days on Long Island to developing my relationships in Manhattan. Market trends I’ve witnessed and what I foresee The impact of Global events Tax mitigation strategies I’ve used to preserve client assets The best practices to accumulate wealth How I advise/educate real estate, legal, tax, and business professionals The impact of Section 1031 Exchange on the economy

How to Quit Being a Landlord & Retire

Stephen Davis of Safe Harbor Asset Management is a member of XPX Tri-State
Stephen K Davis
Safe Harbor Asset Management
2 years ago

Great news! Your CPA has informed you, “you will make a lot of money through your real estate portfolio…the bad news, you will have to cut a fat check to the IRS; you’re getting killed on Capital Gains Taxes and Depreciation Recapture.” Sure, you’re familiar with the 1031 Exchange Tax Code. You are at the point in your life where you just want to unload your real estate and get out of the business of “Tenants, Toilet’s, and Trash.” Your really do not want to buy other real estate that will have to be managed in order to satisfy the 1031 Exchange requirements. You do not want to repeat the cycle for the sake of avoiding the tax bill. So, what are you to do? The Delaware Statutory Trust (DST) may be the golden ticket that you are looking for. It permits fractional ownership where multiple investors can share ownership in a single property or a portfolio of properties, which qualifies as replacement property as part of an investor’s 1031 Exchange transaction. Key Benefits: No management responsibilities Access to Institutional-Quality property Limited personal liability Lower minimum investments Diversification Estate Planning Insurance policy Eliminate Boot Swap until you drop You can have access to a fully vetted, investment-grade real estate alternative. As a Registered Investment Advisor, not a Broker-Dealer, our process makes for a simple and straightforward 1031 Exchange as well as a less costly one. Now take the trip, make those plans, and do the things you’ve wanted to do. To calculate your property’s replacement value and to view available Investment Grade Properties, visit our site www.investsafeharbor.com   *Must be an accredited investor. Past performance is no guarantee of future returns. Investing involves risk and possible loss of principal capital. No advice may be rendered by Safe Harbor Asset Management, Inc. unless a client service agreement is in place.  

GUEST BLOG: How Might Inflation Impact My Investments?

Diane DeCesare of Armanino LLP is a member of XPX Philadelphia
Diane DeCesare
Armanino LLP
2 years ago

By: A.J. Fusco and Sam Shikiar, CFA   The price of nearly every consumer good is up, and the dollar is worth less than a few months ago. We are in a time of significant inflation. We feel the impact in everyday purchases, but should we be thinking about our investments and inflation’s impact on them? To help answer this question our friends A.J. Fusco and Sam Shikiar, CFA, of Shikiar Asset Management in New York City, offer guidance on working with investments through these tough economic times. Click

How to get 100% financing on a million-dollar, multi-family property

Dominick Wallace of Wallace Capital Funding is a member of XPX Atlanta
Dominick Wallace
Wallace Capital Funding
2 years ago

A valuable asset with guaranteed income without paying a dime After reading the headline, you might be asking yourself — “How can I really afford a million-dollar, multi-family property without paying anything?” With the help of Wallace Capital Funding, LLC, one client was able to make it into a reality. However, he first needed to guarantee his own financing so we could then use the Business Funding Analysis (BFA). This client originally owned ten single family homes in the Birmingham area but wanted to own his first multi-family property. The type property of interest was a rarity. With 36 apartment units, the whole property had a HAP Contract, was classified under Section 8 housing, which guaranteed our client would get monthly income directly from the government. It is like buying a business with guaranteed income. Vacancy rates are also much lower for those investing in Section 8 properties. This is because renters are more likely to stay and renew year after year. And in many markets, Section 8 properties attract a long waiting list of interested tenants. We have established how great this opportunity is but how do you get into a property with no money down? The first step is to determine if you and your business can qualify for additional funds using the BFA. If you don’t remember from our last

Market Outlook: Pricing power

Michelle Jackson of Capital Group is a member of XPX Atlanta
Michelle Jackson
Capital Group
2 years ago

After a powerful advance last year, the stock market has started 2022 on a down note. Between elevated inflation, heightened volatility and the Federal Reserve’s more hawkish stance, where could markets go from here? If we can’t expect another 20%-plus gain, what can we look forward to? And what kinds of businesses have the right set of traits to help them prosper in today’s environment?   Please join me for a strategic discussion covering the markets and some of Capital Group Private Client Services’ perspectives for long-term investors. Click the link below to learn more and register.

Popular

What's Trending

Explore more

How to Post a Photo and Company Logo to Your Member Profile: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cheryl Centeno of XPX Global is a member of XPX
Cheryl Centeno
XPX Global
1 day ago

Enhance your member profile by adding a photo and your company logo! It’s a great way to personalize your presence and showcase your organization. Follow these simple steps to update your profile: 1. Log In to Your Account First, make sure you’re logged in to your member account by going to www.exitplanningexchange.com and clicking on the Log In button on the top right-hand corner of the page. Remember to use the email address associated with your member profile as your username. 2. Go to Your Profile Once logged in, navigate to your member profile. You can usually find this by clicking on your profile picture or your name at the top of the page. 3. Select “Edit Photo” Look for the “Edit Photo” button—typically located near the top of your member profile’s dropdown menu (photo below). Click on it to upload or update your high-res photo.

New Years Resolutions: Why They Miss the Mark, and What to Do Instead

Maria Forbes of FIREPOWER Business Catalyst, LLC. is a member of XPX Atlanta
Maria C Forbes
FIREPOWER Business Catalyst, LLC.
5 days ago

Entrepreneurial business owners, is it time to consider a new approach to setting goals in the New Year? We’ve all been there. January 1 rolls around, and we set resolutions with the best intentions. “This will be the year I double my business,” we say. An article in Forbes 1 states by mid-February, 80% of people have made their resolutions a distant memory. Why? Because we have high ambitions hinging on mostly unrealistic and unsustainable methods, setting broad, lofty goals without a roadmap is like trying to sail a ship without a compass—directionless and daunting. There is a simple fix for this problem.  Start the road map with some pre-work. The root issue? New Year’s goals should always start with who you are, how you want to serve, and what you want to enjoy. If you start a New Year’s Resolution with what is trending in the world, in business, or in society, you will leave some or all your resolutions behind as you realize there is a misalignment between who you are and what is trending. It’s all one path! As business owners, we are bombarded with tasks that can be exhausting and lack enjoyment. Goals should be derived from envisioning a picture of your personal world: God, business, family, your unique personal desire to share creatively, and the core of who you are, so your business and your world are synced within a set of goals. What should your world look like in the New Year? Don’t compartmentalize! Your business cannot be separated from all the rest; successful business owners know who they are and how they intend to serve.  Get reacquainted with who you are, your personal talents to serve (clients, friends, family), and how you can get back to enjoying your life. Now we can talk about Business Resolutions You know what you want to achieve for your business. Now, make it a team effort. Go beyond your own efforts to engage your team in goals that are well aligned with their strengths and do it in a doable fashion that engages the spirit of growth together. The Problem with Most Resolutions Resolutions lack specificity, accountability, and, most importantly, our teams’ collective firepower. Transformative change doesn’t come from wishful thinking but from actionable, measurable steps involving everyone on deck. So, what’s the game plan? Shift from solo resolutions to team-powered actions. Set Specific Goals: Break down that big vision into smaller, achievable milestones. “Increase sales by 10% in Q1” beats “Double my business” for clear targets. Harness Team Strengths: Every member has unique skills. Use them to your advantage by assigning roles that match their strengths and watch motivation soar. Perform Regular Check-Ins: Make accountability a team effort. Frequent updates keep everyone on the same page and moving forward together. Celebrate Wins: Whether you hit a small target or make significant progress, celebrate as a team. This will help you feel more united and keep the momentum going. Making Sustainable Resolutions Remember, a sustainable resolution starts with the core of who you are as an owner, how you want to serve, and what is enjoyable to you.  Once you know what you want to achieve for your business your team can help you get there. With some pre-work, a New Year resolution might spark the fire, and then your team’s day-to-day actions will keep it blazing.

Quantum Computing Investments: Key Players, Risks, and Opportunities for 2025

Billy Amberg of Bloomwood is a member of XPX Atlanta
Billy Amberg
Bloomwood
6 days ago

Listen to this post as a podcast: www.adviserinfo.sec.gov). Please read the disclosure statement carefully before you engage our firm for advisory services. The information provided is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice and it should not be relied on as such. It should not be considered a solicitation to buy or an offer to sell a security. It does not take into account any investor’s particular investment objectives, strategies, tax status or investment horizon. You should consult your attorney or tax advisor.   The views expressed in this commentary are subject to change based on the market and other conditions. These documents may contain certain statements that may be deemed forward-looking statements. Please note that any such statements are not guarantees of any future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected. Any projections, market outlooks, or estimates are based upon certain assumptions and should not be construed as indicative of actual events that will occur.    All information has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but its accuracy is not guaranteed.  There is no representation or warranty as to the current accuracy, reliability, or completeness of, nor liability for, decisions based on such information and it should not be relied on as such. Bloomwood is a registered investment advisor. Advisory services are only offered to clients or prospective clients where Bloomwood and its representatives are properly licensed or exempt from licensure. 730 Starlight Lane, Atlanta, GA 30342.

What to Expect in 2025: Changes to the Three Branches of Government

Robert Brody of Brody and Associates, LLC is a member of XPX Tri-State
Robert G. Brody
Brody and Associates, LLC
2 weeks ago

As we enter 2025, businesses face a rapidly evolving employment law landscape shaped by dynamic shifts across all three branches of government. With a new president set to take office, significant developments at the Supreme Court, and the Republicans securing control of Congress, 2025 is shaping up to be a year defined by upheaval. Each branch of government will be different than any of us have seen in decades. The Executive Branch First and foremost, Donald Trump’s second presidential term is set to begin on January 20. Over the last four years, the Biden administration, known for their pro-employee policies, ushered in a wave of regulations aimed at expanding worker protections. Conversely, the Trump administration is expected to continue their pro-employer, laissez-faire approach that prioritized deregulation and employer flexibility during his first term. (Interestingly, the Trump Administration has started supporting more union issues and no one knows how that will impact his second term.) Significantly, labor and employment law developments often arise from action on behalf of various agencies such as the National Labor Relations Board (“NLRB”) and the Department of Labor (“DOL”). Because these agencies are part of the Executive branch, the president is effectively charged with overseeing them, and therefore plays a significant role in the implementation of their policies. Employers should expect Trump to utilize these agencies to implement his pro-business agenda. It is worth noting, however, that a 2024 Supreme Court decision (Loper Bright Enterprises v. Raimondo) overturned the long-standing Chevron doctrine, a legal principle that directed courts to defer to federal agency’s interpretations of law that agency is empowered to enforce. As a result of this decision, the Executive branch was effectively weakened, shifting greater interpretative authority to the Judicial branch. It will be interesting to see how much impact this change will have on the balance of power among our branches of government. The Judicial Branch Loper was not the only Supreme Court decision in 2024 that contributed to the shift in power in favor of the Judicial branch. The Supreme Court’s decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, overturned the landmark abortion decision Roe v. Wade. Historically, courts, including the Supreme Court, follow precedent created by earlier decisions. But now the Supreme Court showed its willingness to overturn longstanding precedent based on a difference in their opinion of what is right or wrong. This shift away from strict adherence to precedent allows the Supreme Court greater latitude to reinterpret past decisions. With more flexibility to pursue a wider range of cases, as well as greater interpretive authority, the Judicial branch is shaping up to be much more powerful than it has been in the past. The Legislative Branch Lastly, in the 2024 election, the Republicans secured a majority in both the House of Representatives and the Senate. This means that the Legislative branch will have broad authority to enact their agenda over the next two years. Additionally, with Donald Trump in the White House, the likelihood of presidential vetoes decreases significantly.  This alignment will increase the likelihood that Congress will pass more new laws than is typically seen under a divided legislature. As a result, employers should closely monitor what new laws Congress enacts. Employer Takeaways Overall, the three branches of government are all undergoing significant changes. Donald Trump is likely to resume his pro-employer agenda, albeit with a slightly weakened Executive branch in the wake of the Loper decision. The Judicial branch is as powerful as ever, exemplified by the Supreme Court’s willingness to overturn longstanding precedent. Lastly, with Republicans in control of both the Senate and the House, the Legislative branch is primed for significant activity through 2026. With all these changes taking place, it is crucial for businesses to keep abreast of developments in labor and employment laws to ensure compliance and minimize legal risk in the new year. Brody and Associates regularly advises management on complying with the latest local, state, and federal employment laws. If we can be of assistance in this area, please contact us at info@brodyandassociates.com or 203.454.0560.

Developing Leadership Depth for Business Exit Readiness

Marci Caudle of Tagro Solutions is a member of XPX Philadelphia
Marci Caudle
Tagro Solutions
2 weeks ago

A robust leadership pipeline is crucial for any business, but it becomes particularly vital when preparing for a business exit. Whether you’re planning a sale, merger, or leadership transition, ensuring that your leadership depth is strong can significantly enhance the attractiveness and value of your business. This HR Insight explores how strategic human resources management can cultivate leadership depth to support a smooth business transition. The Importance of Leadership Depth in Exit Planning Leadership depth refers to a company’s ability to fill key leadership roles from within, ensuring business continuity and operational stability. For businesses considering an exit, strong leadership depth reassures potential buyers and investors of the company’s resilience and future performance potential. A well-prepared leadership team can effectively manage transitions, uphold company values, and drive growth, even during periods of change. Strategies for Developing Leadership Depth Leadership Development Programs: Implement comprehensive leadership development programs tailored to your company’s needs. These programs should focus on nurturing high-potential employees with critical skills such as strategic thinking, decision-making, and change management. Methods might include formal training sessions, mentorship programs, and leadership retreats that emphasize real-world business challenges and leadership responsibilities. Succession Planning: Effective succession planning is essential for ensuring that key positions can be filled quickly and competently. HR should work with current leaders to identify potential successors for each critical role. This process includes assessing the skills and readiness of potential leaders and providing targeted development opportunities to prepare them for future roles. Talent Identification and Management: Use talent management tools and assessments to identify employees who have the potential to become future leaders. Once identified, provide these individuals with customized development plans that align with their career aspirations and the company’s strategic goals. This approach not only prepares them for leadership roles but also helps retain top talent by actively investing in their career growth. Performance Management: Align performance management systems to leadership development goals. Regular performance reviews and feedback sessions help potential leaders understand their strengths and areas for improvement, ensuring they are on the right track to taking on more significant roles within the company. Cultivating a Leadership Culture: Foster a culture that promotes leadership from every level of the organization. Encourage employees to take initiative, lead projects, or mentor others. This environment supports leadership development organically and can identify and elevate hidden talents within the organization. The Impact of Leadership Depth on Business Valuation A strong leadership team can significantly enhance a company’s valuation during an exit. It demonstrates to potential buyers and investors that the company is well-managed, has a clear direction, and is capable of sustaining growth without the original owner or current leadership team. Additionally, companies with effective leadership transitions are more likely to maintain performance levels during and after the exit process, reducing risks associated with the transition. Developing leadership depth is not just about filling positions but about creating a sustainable framework that supports the company’s long-term goals and ensures a legacy of success. As businesses prepare for exit, the role of HR in cultivating this environment becomes a cornerstone of strategic exit planning. By investing in leadership development, companies not only enhance their marketability and potential sale value but also secure a stable and prosperous future for all stakeholders. At Tagro Solutions, we bring our deep expertise in Human Resources consulting to the table, aligning HR strategies with business objectives to enhance company performance and prepare for successful transitions. Our approach integrates seamlessly with the philosophy of the Exit Planning Exchange, which fosters collaborative exchanges of information and experiences among its members. Together, we aim to empower business owners through strategic insights and actionable solutions, making the journey from business operation to exit as profitable and smooth as possible.

New York City Mayor Signs Legislation Regulating Hotel Safety: What Employers Need to Know

Robert Brody of Brody and Associates, LLC is a member of XPX Tri-State
Robert G. Brody
Brody and Associates, LLC
1 month ago

On November 4, 2024, NYC Mayor Eric Adams signed into law the Safe Hotels Act (Int. No. 991-C) aiming to promote hotel safety and boost tourism. The Act, taking effect May 3, 2025, requires hotel licenses, restructuring of employment agreements, and a number of new staffing requirements. Hotel License Requirements Hotel operators defined as persons who own, lease, or manage a hotel, and control day-to-day operations, must obtain a hotel license from the Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DWCP) to legally operate a hotel. Hotel operators must file an application with the Commissioner of the DWCP to obtain a license. The application must contain contact information as well as details of safeguards and procedures which show the hotel is in compliance with the Act’s staffing, safety, employment, and cleanliness requirements. The application will differ if the operator has a collective bargaining agreement (CBA) with a union. If the operator has a CBA which contains the required information and references the CBA in their application this may satisfy the Acts notification rules. The notification requirement will be satisfied for the term of the CBA or 10 years from the date of the application (whichever is longer). The commissioner must be notified if there are changes to the CBA which remove references to the Act’s requirements. The hotel license may be denied or revoked if operators fail to comply with the Act, however there are a number of notice requirements for the Commissioner prior to revoking a license. The Commissioner must notify the licensee of a potential revocation in writing. The licensee must be given 30 days from the notification to remedy the violation and this notice must be in writing. A license will not be revoked if it can be demonstrated that the condition has been resolved in the 30-day period. Evidence of this correction can be delivered electronically or in person. Upon the Commissioner’s decision, the licensee has 15 days to request a review of the decision. A license will not be revoked in the following situations: service disruptions such as construction work noise; conditions that the hotel is aware of and treats within 24 hours such as bed bugs, rodents, etc.; unavailability of hotel amenities for a period of 48 hours; unavailability of utilities for a period of 24 hours; and importantly any strike, picketing, lockout, or demonstration at or by the hotel. Hotel operators must display their license in a public area.   Employment Agreement Requirements The Act requires hotel owners, with 100 or more guest rooms, “directly employ” all “core employees”, except a single hotel operator to manage operations on the owner’s behalf. This rule effectively eliminates intermediaries such as staffing agencies or management companies. Core employees include those whose work relates to housekeeping, front desk, or front service. Valets, maintenance workers, parking security, and employees mostly working with food and beverages are not considered core employees. This provision greatly impacts employers who utilize subcontractors; however some contracting agreements may be grandfathered in if they are entered into prior to the effective date and have a specific termination date. Violating this provision may serve as the basis of license revocation. Staffing Requirements In order to maintain safe conditions for guests and hotel workers, the Act implements a number of new staffing requirements. One employee must provide front desk coverage at all times (during night shifts a security guard who has received human trafficking training may take this employee’s place). Hotels with more than 400 guest rooms must have a minimum of one security guard providing continuous coverage while any room is occupied. Hotels must maintain cleanliness and not impose fees for daily room cleaning. Core employes must receive training on how to identify human trafficking within 60 days of employment. Hotels must not accept reservations for less than 4 hours. Penalties and What Else Employers Need to Know Hotel operators are strictly prohibited from retaliating against any employee who discloses a potential violation or assists in an investigation. Hotel operators are also prohibited from retaliating against employees who refuse to partake in a dangerous activity that is not part of their job. As previously discussed, noncompliance can result in a hotel operator’s license being revoked, but that is not all. Anyone alleging a violation can seek a civil action within 6 months of the alleged violation. Furthermore, the Act provides for civil penalties which vary based on the number of violations: $500 for a first violation, $1,000 for a second, $2,500 for a third, and $5,000 for subsequent violations. The Commissioner is expected to issue rules by which this law will be enforced. A timetable for their issuance has yet to be set. Brody and Associates regularly advises management on complying with the latest local, state and federal employment laws.  If we can be of assistance in this area, please contact us at info@brodyandassociates.com or 203.454.0560  

Previous
Next

Explore the Knowledge Exchange

Search
Make XPX Part of Your Business Plans
Attend an event
Join a chapter
Start a chapter
Find an advisor
Explore
Learn
Account
Connect
Help & Support

© 2025 XPX Global LLC.          Privacy Policy         Norms & Principles          Site Map           Terms of Use

Paper-plane Linkedin Youtube

© 2025 XPX Global LLC. All Rights Reserved.