Financial and Lifestyle Perspective from Northern Trust http://www.northerntrust.com/wealth/11-summer/index.html http://www.northerntrust.com/wealth/11-summer/the-truth-about-energy-usage.html http://www.northerntrust.com/wealth/11-summer/women-in-wealth.html http://www.northerntrust.com/wealth/11-summer/exit-strategies-for-business-owners.html New tax legislation provides a two-year window for transferring wealth and making substantial gifts tax-free, but it does not provide long-term certainty. Many advisors are urging clients to base their wealth transfer strategy on personal goals rather than tax law. http://www.northerntrust.com/wealth/11-summer/2010-tax-relief-act-and-wealth-planning.html Turbulence will likely jostle the municipal bond market over the next few years. But that shouldn’t diminish muni bonds’ appeal as a strategic asset class for portfolios. http://www.northerntrust.com/wealth/11-summer/municipal-bonds-continued-volatility.html How emerging economies such as China, India and Brazil affect the outlook for commodity markets and what it may mean for your investment portfolio. http://www.northerntrust.com/wealth/11-summer/emerging-markets-and-demand-for-commodities.html With each new generation, a family office keeps the mission of the family alive, incorporates a good governance structure, assists with philanthropic interests, and preserves and grows family net worth. http://www.northerntrust.com/wealth/11-summer/the-evolution-of-the-family-office.html Wealth spoke with Northern Trust’s Raymond C. Odom and Ann Freel about the benefits of making significant wealth transfers now, rather than waiting until your estate settles. http://www.northerntrust.com/wealth/11-summer/getting-in-front-of-wealth-transfer.html Before solidifying your next vacation plans, consider the latest trend in eco-awareness – ecotourism. We’ve spotlighted three green luxury travel destinations. http://www.northerntrust.com/wealth/11-summer/ecotourism-greening-your-vacation.html Recent developments and activities at Northern Trust. http://www.northerntrust.com/wealth/11-summer/News-and-Notes.html