Why Realistic Expectations May Be Great
Although positive thinking can be powerful, there's a fine line between optimism and unrealistic expectations. There are possible pitfalls when overestimating how a portfolio will perform.
Another Economic Stimulus
Temporary incentives could affect businesses of all sizes. Although Congress was unable to tackle the controversial issue of future income tax rates before the 2010 midterms, it quietly passed a little-noticed tax package, the Small Business Jobs Act of 2009 (H.R. 5297), that may benefit small businesses and even individual taxpayers.
New Opportunity Under the Federal Gift Tax
The 2010 Tax Relief Act raised the lifetime gift-tax exclusion to $5 million. This means it could be a good time to make the most of tax-free gift transfers. If so, it's important to understand the annual and lifetime gift exemption limits, as well as which gifts might not be subject to them.
HOT TOPIC: Debating the Debt Ceiling
There has been substantial debate in Congress over raising the ceiling on the national debt. Although many Americans could be adversely affected if Congress decided not to increase the debt ceiling, this is unlikely to happen.
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