Year-End Financial Planning
Year-end planning always involves a degree of guesswork, but the path through the balance of 2012 and into 2013 seems especially unsettled. Therefore, preparations this fall should align with long-range financial objectives.

Manage Your Digital Assets
Accounting for and managing your online assets – social media profiles, email, bank accounts and the like – today can help your heirs gain access to them when they need them.

Sorting Through Commodities
Is adding commodities exposure to your portfolio right for you?


Riding the Market Roller Coaster
When it comes to the stock market, the one certainty is that it will change constantly. Instead of joining short-term bulls or bears, consider realigning your investment approach with your life goals and removing fleeting emotions from the equation.

Zeroing in on Wealth Management Goals
Northern Trust’s Deiken Maloney and Mary Ann Sisco discuss how clients can set specific goals around lifestyle, future expenditures, family and philanthropy as part of our new Life Driven Wealth Management approach.

Are Retirement Living 2.0
From resorts to permanent cruises, retirement options have expanded to provide comfortable and enjoyable retired living day in and day out.

News & Notes
Recent developments and activities at Northern Trust.

Challenges and Opportunities in Emerging Markets
A look at key growth possibilities in the emerging economies of Brazil, Russia, India and China — as well as the major risks in each country.

Before Taking Flight: Expatriation Tax Considerations
Tax issues may be part of the decision to renounce one's U.S. citizenship or give up one's long-term U.S. residence, but they must be carefully considered at every stage of a potential expatriate's journey.

The Wealthy Market and Social Media
An increasing number of millionaires are joining social networks like Facebook and LinkedIn. But what exactly are they doing there?

News & Notes
Recent developments and activities at Northern Trust.

Assessing the EU’s Debt Crisis
Due to systemic issues and lengthy routes to resolution, the path ahead for the European Union (EU) likely won’t be smooth. For patient investors, however, solid opportunities do exist.

Wealth Stewardship and the Next Generation
Open, ongoing conversations about wealth are crucial to prepare the next generation to take on financial responsibilities.


Putting Off Retirement
More people are choosing to retire later in life, either through working longer or starting second careers. But how does this decision affect financial planning and wealth management?

A New Approach to Wealth Management
Northern Trust’s Scott Dille and Mary Ann Sisco reveal the importance of properly aligning financial and personal goals through a Life Driven Wealth Management approach.

Making a Difference Through Volunteer Vacations
An increasing number of wealthy families use vacation time to give back to communities in need. With the help of professional volunteer services, volunteer vacations can provide safe and priceless learning experiences.

News & Notes
Recent developments and activities at Northern Trust.

Recharacterization of Converted Roth IRAs
Conversion of traditional IRAs and other retirement accounts to Roth IRAs can help position retirement funds in a tax-advantaged way. If the market goes awry, recharacterization helps ensure investment losses don't negate benefits of such moves.

Responsible Investing: Investing for a Cause
Responsible investing – incorporating environmental, social and corporate governance criteria in your portfolio – has experienced tremendous growth during the past few years. Is it the right approach for you?

Wealth Transfer Planning – Your Way
Estate planning should start by defining the core values that reflect your family’s unique and diverse human, social and intellectual capital – and involve family members in the process.


How Secure Are Your Investments
Safety of assets is a chief concern for all investors, particularly in these uncertain economic times. Registering assets through a trust bank or broker-dealer not only provides protection but increases efficiencies and cost savings as well.

The Impact of Dodd-Frank on Investors
Jean Sheridan, Northern Trust’s head of global financial reform management, shares insight on what the Dodd-Frank Act may mean for clients, as well as Northern Trust’s efforts to meet the demands of the new financial regulations.

Are Your Assets at Risk of Cyber Crime?
Protect yourself and your assets from cyber criminals through essential risk mitigation measures – adopting some secure habits both online and in the physical world.

News & Notes
Recent developments and activities at Northern Trust.

Charitable Giving Strategies: Finding Your Perfect Fit
When it comes to charitable giving, it's all about your philanthropic values, your family dynamics and your finances.

Inflation: A Measured Ascent – For Now
Price jumps fueled by rising oil prices recently set off alarms over inflation, but do such conditions really lead to broadly higher costs.

Making Waves Through Social Entrepreneurship
A growing number of entrepreneurs are addressing the social issues most important to them through impact, innovation, engagement and even some risk.


Wealth Management Perspectives: Prime Time for Exchange-Traded Funds
In the investing world, timing isn't everything, but it is a key consideration. And when it comes to timing, conditions today may be ripe for exchange-traded funds (ETFs).

Information Exchange: Strategic Thinking for Today's Successful Nonprofits
In the wake of recent financial turmoil, nonprofits face a growing list of challenges. Wealth spoke with Kendall Kay about those concerns, as well as how Northern Trust's Foundation & Institutional Advisors can help organizations overcome them.

Inspired Living: Concierge Medicine: Custom-made Health Care
Concierge medicine takes health care to the next level, giving your doctor the time and tools to focus on treatments tailor-made just for you.

News & Notes
Recent developments and activities at Northern Trust.

The Truth About U.S. Energy Usage

A rebound in the economy means fuel consumption will rise, but U.S. demand will be significantly outpaced by other developing countries.

Women in Wealth

Today, women control nearly a third of the world’s wealth and are on track to out-earn men by 2024. But often, women’s risk tolerance, investment goals and objectives are informed by very different values and expectations.

Planning for the Future: What’s Your Exit Strategy?

With financing finally becoming available again and M&A activity on the rise, now may be the perfect time to either prepare your business for sale or pass along to family members.

News & Notes
Recent developments and activities at Northern Trust.

The 2010 Tax Relief Act and its Implications for Wealth Planning
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.

Municipal Bonds: Continued Volatility Ahead
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.

Emerging Markets and the Demand for Commodities
How emerging economies such as China, India and Brazil affect the outlook for commodity markets and what it may mean for your investment portfolio.


Wealth Management Perspectives: Portrait of a Family Office
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.

Information Exchange: Getting in Front of Wealth Transfer
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.

Inspired Living: Ecotourism: Greening Your Next Vacation
Before solidifying your next vacation plans, consider the latest trend in eco-awareness – ecotourism. We’ve spotlighted three green luxury travel destinations.

News & Notes
Recent developments and activities at Northern Trust.

Demographic Shifts & Investment Strategies
Demographic analysis can help guide investment decisions only when combined with a thorough assessment of economic policy and politics.

Financial Derivatives: Much Maligned
Lawmakers and others love to take shots at derivatives, which contributed to the markets’ 2008–2009 woes. Yet these often complex investments are essential to the steady flow of capital in the world’s financial markets.

Pulling Back the Curtain on Hedge Funds
When it comes to hedge funds, improved disclosure rules are designed to heighten transparency in such sophisticated investments. Yet the volume of data and information supplied by hedge fund managers may prove overwhelming. How do investment pros manage the data load?


Wealth Management Perspectives: Wealth in Black America
Northern Trust’s second comprehensive look at the financial attitudes of wealthy black Americans reveals a charitable generation willing to give back to their families and communities.

Information Exchange: Northern Trust's Real Estate Services Group
Wealth spoke with Michael E. Papierski, senior vice president in the Real Estate Services Group of Northern Trust’s Personal Financial Services, about how the division helps clients manage, acquire or sell real estate assets held in estates and trusts.

Inspired Living: Luxury Hybrid Vehicles—More Than Hype
Hybrid vehicles have taken off over the past six years and are projected to become even more mainstream going forward. With new luxury models coming to market, is a hybrid vehicle the right choice for you?

News & Notes
Recent developments and activities at Northern Trust.

Cash Flow Planning and Income Management in Retirement
To truly enjoy your retirement, it’s crucial to create and implement a plan to meet your cash flow needs and determine a sustainable income level to help avoid outliving your assets. Here’s where to begin.

Strategic Considerations for Business Owners — Business Valuation Strategies
In May, Northern Trust hosted a conference for private business owners/entrepreneurs and their key advisors in partnership with Lincoln International, a boutique advisory firm for closely or privately held businesses. Wealth shares best practices from the business owner panel.

Fixed Income Strategy for Mutual Funds
Northern Trust’s fixed income team shares how they intend to modify the structure and strategy of the bank’s fixed income mutual funds in light of investors’ fears of a secular rate increase.


Wealth Management Perspectives: Wealth Transfer Strategies in an Uncertain Market
Despite the uncertain markets, there are still ways to plan for a successful wealth transfer.

Information Exchange: Northern Trust’s Family Business Group
Wealth spoke with Northern Trust’s Dan Barron, managing director of the Family Business Group, about the unique trust and estate services the division provides its clients.

Inspired Living: Making Educated Travel Decisions
Create the perfect travel experience by researching world-class resorts for your enjoyment and taking precautions for your safety.

News & Notes
Recent developments and activities at Northern Trust.

Tax Legislation Update
This is a year of great upheaval for tax law. Wealth takes a closer look at the current situation.

Trusts That Take Care
Here’s what to consider and what to avoid when crafting special needs trusts.

Planning for the Unexpected
Despite your best-laid plans for how to distribute your wealth to your heirs, sometimes events happen that are beyond your control. How can you best prepare for unpredictable factors? Learn how in this Web-exclusive article.

Mind Games: Behavioral Finance
Emotions can trip up any investor by stoking a fear of loss — and fears of losing out. The field of behavioral finance helps investors understand how emotionally driven decisions happen and the potential implications.

On The Board of Directors
Substantial donors are often asked to serve on the boards of nonprofits they support. And being a board member for a nonprofit organization you care about can be very rewarding. Board memberships also carry significant responsibilities and can potentially expose you to liabilities, so a little research is in order before you accept a position.

Educating the Next Generation: Managing Inherited Wealth
Helping children understand how inherited wealth can make all the difference in their success.


Wealth Management Perspectives: 2010: The Year of the Roth IRA
New tax rules have given more people access to a Roth IRA, one of the most effective vehicles in which to accumulate money for retirement or heirs. If you determine that it pays to convert, these strategies can help you maximize the benefits.

Information Exchange: Northern Trust’s Minerals Management Group
Wealth spoke to Bill Weege, oil, gas and minerals manager for Northern Trust in Dallas, and John Couzens, managing director of Asset Advisory Services in Chicago, about the unique services the group provides and the strategies its team uses to manage these special assets.

Inspired Living: Concierge Services
Northern Trust provides access to exclusive opportunities in travel, dining and entertainment.

News & Notes
Recent developments and activities at Northern Trust.

Resuscitating the U.S. Dollar
The U.S. dollar’s value faces some challenges: Several countries have publicly threatened to cut ties with the dollar as their reserve currency, and the United States currently has a rising, very large deficit. Take a look at how these pressures may affect the dollar’s strength and what that means to you.

Renewable Energy Boom
Demand for renewable energy, such as wind and solar power, is apparent due to the public’s increasing desire for eco-friendly practices. Energy suppliers have responded by working to make use of renewable energy more efficient and cost-effective. But is it a good investment?

Long-Term Care Insurance
Most affluent people overlook long-term care insurance, assuming they can cover the cost of any future health care needs. But the cost of health care is rising and long-term care services are no exception. To make sure your assets are well protected, is it time to give long-term care insurance a closer look?


Wealth Management Perspectives: New Age of Global Investing
For affluent U.S. investors, international equity investments have become at least as important as domestic ones as global investing has become a tool for creating value in a portfolio.

Information Exchange: In Whom Do You Trust?
Hugh Magill, Northern Trust’s chief fiduciary officer, and Michael LoVallo, a partner in the Wealth Planning Group of Reed Smith, LLP, in Chicago, discuss what to consider before choosing a trustee.

Inspired Living: The Many Shades of Building Green
As people become more aware of the effect they have on the environment, green building has exploded. But “green” means different things to different buyers.

News & Notes
Recent developments and activities at Northern Trust.

Preparing for Philanthropy
Leaving a lasting legacy often involves making philanthropy a part of your wealth transfer plan. In this final installment of a four-part series based on Northern Trust's book, "Legacy: Conversations About Wealth Transfer," we discuss how you can maximize the effect of your giving.

Get Real Assets
Adding real assets to your portfolio may help diversify your strategy - and can protect against the effects of inflation in the future. Learn how real assets such as commodities, real estate, oil and minerals may continue to benefit investors as they seek quality investments in a down economy.

Retire Well
To truly enjoy life after work, you need to plan ahead. No matter how close you are to retiring, now is the time to create a plan - or revisit your old plan - so you can feel more secure about your future. We discuss some strategies to consider.

Global Economy, Small World
For better or for worse, the world is getting smaller, at least from an economic perspective. As we've seen quite definitively, the global economy affects us here at home.


Wealth Management Perspectives: What Lending Crisis?
Contrary to what many believe, despite the economic crisis, traditional banks are still lending.

Information Exchange: Emerging Markets
Northern Trust's Chief Investment Strategist, Jim McDonald, shares why he thinks emerging markets will lead the way out of the recession.

Inspired Living: Exercise Better With Age
Aging isn't always fun. But exercise, even in its less strenuous forms, can help you stay physically and mentally sound, and improve your quality of life.

News & Notes
Recent developments and activities at Northern Trust.

Inflation: Are We at Risk?
Now with indications that the economy has skirted deflation, why are economists keeping an eye on inflation even as prices are falling? Because inflation often rides the coattails of an economic recession. But how likely — and how soon — could it crop up? In this article, Northern Trust’s Chief Economist Paul Kasriel and Drake University Finance Professor Thomas Root discuss the likelihood of inflation following this recession, and its potential timing and effects.

Pay It Forward
Microlending enables entrepreneurship in some of the world’s unlikeliest places.

Wealth Transfer Strategies
In this third part in a four-part series based on Northern Trust’s book, “Legacy: Conversations About Wealth Transfer,” we discuss wealth transfer strategies that can minimize taxes while maximizing the amount distributed to your beneficiaries.

The Upside of Down: Making the Most of a Down Market
Even a down market may offer potential opportunities for your portfolio. Here are ways you can try to turn the recession to your advantage.

When Recognizing Losses, How Much is Enough?
While no investor sets out to generate losses, investors focused on tax management know that losses may provide an opportunity to offset future tax liabilities. Listen as Greg Pasieka, portfolio manager in the Quantitative Active/Enhanced Index team specializing in tax advantaged strategies, examines the answer to the question.


Wealth Management Perspectives
Tax-free yields are up. Is now the time to buy municipal bonds?

Information Exchange
Yvette Taylor and Monique Brinkman-Smith discuss how Northern Trust tailors solutions to meet the needs of this group.

Inspired Living
Not getting enough sleep can have long-term physical consequences. Learn how you can improve your chances of getting a good night’s sleep.

News & Notes
Recent developments and activities at Northern Trust.

Bubbles Through Time
The recent real estate and commodity bubbles are just the latest incarnations of an investment phenomena that first occurred centuries ago. Following a prudent investment strategy can help you weather the fallout when a bubble bursts.

Happy New (Tax) Year
The start of a new year is the ideal time to engage in tax planning with your financial team. Use these tips to plan your tax strategy for 2009 and beyond. To minimize your tax bill for 2010, you might need to start sooner than you think.

Wealth Transfer Fundamentals
Behind every successful wealth transfer, there are three key documents — a will, power of attorney and revocable trust. Thoroughly understanding these documents is the best way to ensure that your wealth transfer plans will be executed properly.


Wealth Management Perspectives
Shundrawn Thomas shares his thoughts on Northern Trust’s groundbreaking “Wealth in Black America” survey.

Information Exchange
Jim Rauh and Doug Regan discuss how Northern Trust’s Family Advisory Services can help families manage their wealth.

Inspired Living
A recent trend in travel blends tourism with volunteerism. Learn about a few organizations that coordinate vacations for tourists on a mission.

News & Notes
Recent developments and activities at Northern Trust.

Understanding Wealth Transfer Planning
Wealth transfer planning is important at any age, level of wealth or stage of life. Yet despite the importance of understanding the process, for many people, the fundamentals often remain unclear. This is the first in a four-part series about creating a legacy based on Northern Trust’s book, “Legacy: Conversations About Wealth Transfer.”

Investing in a Volatile Market
While the market may be fluctuating wildly, your portfolio will likely perform better if you hold steady and follow your investment strategy. We look at why making big changes in response to volatility can hurt your portfolio’s performance, and why you should maintain a level head despite the market’s ups and downs.

Managing Life’s Transitions
Whether you’re facing a transition, want to simplify your life, are pursuing a new goal or just want to improve how you function, you might benefit from working with a life coach. Here’s how — and when — they can help.


Wealth Management Perspectives
Northern Trust’s Steven Schoenfeld helps investors size up exchange-traded funds as an investment strategy.

Information Exchange
The federal interest rates used to value certain gifts are at near historic lows. That makes these wealth transfer strategies even more appealing.

Inspired Living
A professional image consultant can not only help you project the image you want, but also stay on top of current fashion trends without ever leaving your home.

News & Notes
Recent developments and activities at Northern Trust.

The Evolution of Socially Responsible Investing
Socially responsible investing is no longer considered a fringe strategy. Its growth now provides investors a host of vehicles for smart long-term investing. Whether you are interested in screening out certain types of investments or following a broad sustainability approach, you can find a vehicle that meets your needs.

Teach Your Children Well
As parents of young adults, you may want to continue working with your children to provide them opportunities to develop their financial acumen and gain the experience they need to feel confident managing their eventual inheritance.

Wealth in America Survey 2008
Now in its third year, Northern Trust’s annual Wealth in America survey provides insight into how the nation’s millionaire households feel about the economy, the stock market and their financial advisors. We reveal what’s changed and what’s remained stable since last year’s study, and what those findings can tell us about the year ahead.


Wealth Management Perspectives
A roundtable discussion offering advice for business owners seeking private equity funding.

Information Exchange
Northern Trust’s Chief Technology Officer, Nirup Krishnamurthy, talks about trends in financial technology.

Inspired Living
Americans spent $43 billion on their pets last year. Grooming products, organic food, designer duds and even trusts — nothing is off limits for our furry friends.

News & Notes
Recent developments and activities at Northern Trust.

Planning a Successful Wealth Transfer
Creating a comprehensive wealth transfer plan gives families peace of mind. But making sure it functions as you intend demands frequent updates and expert advice.

The Thirsty Investor
The world’s growing demand for fresh water sanitation, conservation and innovation is quickly gaining the attention of seasoned global investors. But will the supply meet the demand?

Taking Steps for Inheritance Success
Hugh Magill, chief fiduciary officer and national director of trust services at Northern Trust, shares some advice on how families can prepare their children for a successful inheritance.

Deal or No Deal
For many business owners, the most important consideration when selling their business isn’t the money. Whatever their goals, these entrepreneurs are more interested in suitors with the right fit.


Wealth Management Perspectives
Explore the wide array of learning opportunities available through Northern Trust.

Inspired Living
Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned player, when you’re ready to take your golf game up a notch, you have many different options.

News & Notes
Recent developments and activities at Northern Trust.

Learning to Give
Promoting the importance of philanthropy within the family instills in children life-long values, including generosity, community and gratitude.

Second Act
For many professionals, going back to college at the end of their careers presents exciting new challenges as well as personal fulfillment.

Learning From the Old Masters
Timothy Standing, curator of the "Inspiring Impressionism" exhibition, discusses how the Impressionist painters learned from — and were inspired by — the Old Masters.

Family Business: 101
Creating an education plan for your family can help prepare members for their future roles and preserve family harmony. John Ward from the Kellogg School of Management shares some creative ideas for tailoring your own education plan.


Wealth Management Perspectives
Explore the wide array of learning opportunities available through Northern Trust.

Information Exchange
A roundtable discussion about how collaboration between universities and businesses fosters innovation.

Inspired Living
Knowledge and connoisseurship are replacing traditional luxury trappings as desirable pursuits, leading many people on a quest for expertise and unique experiences.

News & Notes
Recent developments and activities at Northern Trust.

Family Ties
The ability to work through conflict is critical to a family business's success and longevity.

Goal Getters
A look at three nonprofit organizations that are changing their approaches to funding, and achieving their goals.

Planning for Partners
Whether you've chosen not to marry for personal reasons or because you're in a relationship the law doesn't acknowledge, carefully crafting your estate plan is critical. Without the protection offered by law to married couples, you need a plan to ensure that your assets are transferred without being subject to undue taxes.

Getting Active
Municipal bonds have much to offer investors, including a steady stream of tax-free income and portfolio diversification. Investing through an active management strategy can amplify those advantages.


Wealth Management Perspectives
Reintroducing Volatility: Understanding the Roots of an Overdue Correction

Information Exchange
From sudden geo-political events and volatile swings in the economy to a host of other uncertainties, investors can face myriad risks with costly consequences. Michael Leon, managing director of Northern Trust's Alternative Solutions Group, explains why risk management is more important than ever in today's environment.

Inspired Living
Like gourmet food or fine wine, fly-fishing is an experience to be savored.

News & Notes
Recent developments and activities at Northern Trust.

On the Board
Accepting a seat on the board of a nonprofit organization is an honor, and a serious commitment. Understanding your responsibilities and how the board operates can help ensure a good fit.

Suddenly Single
Finding yourself unexpectedly alone can leave you facing a multitude of financial decisions at a time of emotional stress. Fortunately, a number of strategies can help you navigate this difficult time.

Coming of Age: A Fresh Look at Emerging Markets
Allocating a portion of your international investments to emerging market equities can offer more diversification and strong long-term return prospects.

Planning From the Inside Out
A guide to using your estate plan to create a value-based legacy for your family.

Market Outlook
Reintroducing Volatility: Understanding the Roots of an Overdue Correction


Information Exchange
Mary Boehler, division manager of Northern Trust’s Family Business Division, shares her insights into successful business succession planning.

Inspired Living
Like gourmet food or fine wine, fly-fishing is an experience to be savored.

News & Notes
Recent developments and activities at Northern Trust.

Rising Dragon
The ripples from China’s booming economy are being felt around the world. Investors may want to position their investment portfolios to benefit.

A Pivotal Role
Women and men approach philanthropy in different ways, and women’s higher levels of giving and growing economic status are changing the face of philanthropy.

The Generation X Factor
Self-directed and investment-savvy, the next generation of wealthy investors is looking beyond stocks and bonds at a new class of investments. In doing so, they are changing the market.

Safeguarding Your Identity and Your Wealth
Identity theft is a growing problem, and high-net-worth individuals are particularly vulnerable. Learn what you can do to safeguard your identity and your wealth.

Market Outlook
The Housing Trough. What has the Fed usually done in this situation?


Information Exchange
Paul Kasriel, director of economic research at Northern Trust, recently won the Lawrence R. Klein Award for Blue Chip Forecast Accuracy. He discusses his approach to economic forecasting.

Inspired Living
Membership in a destination club can give you access to beautiful private homes around the world, with many of the services you’d expect at a hotel.

News & Notes
Recent developments and activities at Northern Trust.