“‘Broken Window’ Filings: How to Avoid SEC Section 16 Problems for Officers, Directors and Public Companies,” is an installment of The Real Deal.
In a novel mass enforcement action, the SEC recently announced heavy fines against 34 individuals and companies for violating stock transaction and ownership reporting rules. The SEC emphasized that it now is using sophisticated computer algorithms to find and prosecute even inadvertent violations. With this initiative, there is more reason than ever for compliance officers, in-house counsel, directors and officers to ensure they are doing all they can to stay out of the cross-hairs of future enforcement actions.
This presentation was held on October 23, 2014 at 12:00-1:30 p.m. (Central). This webinar series addresses current trends, challenges, and legal topics pertinent to M&A and securities professionals.
The Intersection of Bankruptcy and... Tax Law (Series: Bankruptcy Intersectio...Financial Poise
The issues created by the intersection of bankruptcy law and tax law are complex and marked by the tension between the fundamental goal of the federal bankruptcy laws is to give debtors a financial "fresh start" from burdensome debts and the applicable federal income tax laws. As a result, certain tax liabilities are not dischargeable in bankruptcy. Moreover, a debtor generally continues to be subject to applicable federal income tax laws and must timely file federal income tax returns and pay federal income tax.
To listen to this webinar on-demand, go to: https://www.financialpoise.com/financial-poise-webinars/intersection-of-bankruptcy-and-tax-law-2020/
Emploment law issues for the gig economyRoger Royse
Discussion on misclassification of employment, managing risks of employment, strategies for avoiding misclassification, and changes in the legal landscape with regards to employment
WorldCom was a telecommunications company founded in 1983 that grew through acquisitions in the 1990s. It was led by CEO Bernie Ebbers from 1985 until 2002. In 2002, WorldCom revealed it had committed accounting fraud by improperly capitalizing line costs and inflating revenue, totaling over $3.8 billion. This led to the bankruptcy of WorldCom and prosecution of its executives. An internal audit by Cynthia Cooper uncovered the fraud. Recommendations for preventing future fraud include ensuring independent audits, establishing ethical policies, and passing laws like Sarbanes-Oxley to improve accountability.
WorldCom engaged in fraudulent accounting practices that inflated revenues and hid expenses, which ultimately led to its bankruptcy. Top executives pressured employees to manipulate financial reports in order to meet expectations. When the fraud was uncovered, it resulted in massive job losses, the loss of $180 billion in shareholder value, and damage to the telecom industry. The fraudulent culture was driven by autocratic leadership, lack of transparency, and failure of oversight by the board and auditors.
The Sarbanes-Oxley Act (SOX) was passed in 2002 in response to major corporate accounting scandals to increase transparency and accuracy in financial reporting. SOX established new or expanded standards for all U.S. public company boards, management, and public accounting firms. Key provisions addressed auditor independence, corporate governance, internal control assessment, and financial disclosure. SOX also strengthened criminal penalties for violation of securities law and increased criminal sentences for white-collar crimes like fraud.
The document discusses several topics related to securities law compliance for public companies:
1) It examines the interaction between state corporate law standards of fiduciary duty and evolving federal securities laws. Federal laws have expanded the board's role from advisory to include oversight of legal and regulatory compliance.
2) It describes the various sources that govern corporate governance, including federal securities laws, stock exchange listing standards, and evolving "best practices". Independence of board members is a key requirement.
3) It discusses requirements for audit committees, financial disclosures, and internal corporate policies to comply with securities regulations. Boards must oversee compliance as part of their fiduciary duty of care. Maintaining independence and seeking outside advice can help boards
Final top ten mistakes startups make 09.23.2014 (00046831x c0cb4)Roger Royse
LEARN FROM THE EXPERTS. EXPERIENCED CFO AND ATTORNEY WILL DISCUSS OBVIOUS AND AVOIDABLE MISTAKES COMMONLY MADE BY STARTUPS IN THEIR EARLY YEARS.
Financial and legal mistakes go hand in hand and often overlap. This interactive "conversation" between a CFO and an attorney will shed light upon these common mistakes, as well as provide solutions for avoiding common pitfalls. This webinar is geared towards current and future executives at startups, financial and legal advisors of startups, and students considering starting their own businesses.
Speakers: Lisa Chapman, Esq. - Royse Law Firm
Chris Chillingworth - Partner at CFOs2Go
Moderator: Fred Greguras, Esq. - Royse Law Firm
The Intersection of Bankruptcy and... Tax Law (Series: Bankruptcy Intersectio...Financial Poise
The issues created by the intersection of bankruptcy law and tax law are complex and marked by the tension between the fundamental goal of the federal bankruptcy laws is to give debtors a financial "fresh start" from burdensome debts and the applicable federal income tax laws. As a result, certain tax liabilities are not dischargeable in bankruptcy. Moreover, a debtor generally continues to be subject to applicable federal income tax laws and must timely file federal income tax returns and pay federal income tax.
To listen to this webinar on-demand, go to: https://www.financialpoise.com/financial-poise-webinars/intersection-of-bankruptcy-and-tax-law-2020/
Emploment law issues for the gig economyRoger Royse
Discussion on misclassification of employment, managing risks of employment, strategies for avoiding misclassification, and changes in the legal landscape with regards to employment
WorldCom was a telecommunications company founded in 1983 that grew through acquisitions in the 1990s. It was led by CEO Bernie Ebbers from 1985 until 2002. In 2002, WorldCom revealed it had committed accounting fraud by improperly capitalizing line costs and inflating revenue, totaling over $3.8 billion. This led to the bankruptcy of WorldCom and prosecution of its executives. An internal audit by Cynthia Cooper uncovered the fraud. Recommendations for preventing future fraud include ensuring independent audits, establishing ethical policies, and passing laws like Sarbanes-Oxley to improve accountability.
WorldCom engaged in fraudulent accounting practices that inflated revenues and hid expenses, which ultimately led to its bankruptcy. Top executives pressured employees to manipulate financial reports in order to meet expectations. When the fraud was uncovered, it resulted in massive job losses, the loss of $180 billion in shareholder value, and damage to the telecom industry. The fraudulent culture was driven by autocratic leadership, lack of transparency, and failure of oversight by the board and auditors.
The Sarbanes-Oxley Act (SOX) was passed in 2002 in response to major corporate accounting scandals to increase transparency and accuracy in financial reporting. SOX established new or expanded standards for all U.S. public company boards, management, and public accounting firms. Key provisions addressed auditor independence, corporate governance, internal control assessment, and financial disclosure. SOX also strengthened criminal penalties for violation of securities law and increased criminal sentences for white-collar crimes like fraud.
The document discusses several topics related to securities law compliance for public companies:
1) It examines the interaction between state corporate law standards of fiduciary duty and evolving federal securities laws. Federal laws have expanded the board's role from advisory to include oversight of legal and regulatory compliance.
2) It describes the various sources that govern corporate governance, including federal securities laws, stock exchange listing standards, and evolving "best practices". Independence of board members is a key requirement.
3) It discusses requirements for audit committees, financial disclosures, and internal corporate policies to comply with securities regulations. Boards must oversee compliance as part of their fiduciary duty of care. Maintaining independence and seeking outside advice can help boards
Final top ten mistakes startups make 09.23.2014 (00046831x c0cb4)Roger Royse
LEARN FROM THE EXPERTS. EXPERIENCED CFO AND ATTORNEY WILL DISCUSS OBVIOUS AND AVOIDABLE MISTAKES COMMONLY MADE BY STARTUPS IN THEIR EARLY YEARS.
Financial and legal mistakes go hand in hand and often overlap. This interactive "conversation" between a CFO and an attorney will shed light upon these common mistakes, as well as provide solutions for avoiding common pitfalls. This webinar is geared towards current and future executives at startups, financial and legal advisors of startups, and students considering starting their own businesses.
Speakers: Lisa Chapman, Esq. - Royse Law Firm
Chris Chillingworth - Partner at CFOs2Go
Moderator: Fred Greguras, Esq. - Royse Law Firm
This document discusses trends in FCPA enforcement against companies in the aerospace and defense industry. It provides an overview of the FCPA and UK Bribery Act, noting their broad jurisdiction and enforcement. Recent cases highlighted trends of authorities targeting the use of third parties, executives, and undercover operations. Operating in certain high-risk countries and dealing with state-owned entities also carries risks. The document advises companies in this industry to implement robust compliance programs to mitigate these corruption risks.
WorldCom announced in June 2002 that it intended to restate its financial statements for 2001 and Q1 2002, revealing $3.8 billion in improper accounting transfers from line cost expenses to asset accounts. Less than a month later, WorldCom filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. It was subsequently discovered that an additional $3.8 billion in earnings had been improperly reported from 1999-Q1 2002. The fraud was carried out through improper reductions of line costs and false revenue adjustments. Key players involved included CEO Bernard Ebbers and CFO Scott Sullivan. The toxic culture and lack of board oversight enabled the massive accounting fraud.
The document discusses the role and functions of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The SEC was created in the 1930s to restore investor confidence following the stock market crash and regulates companies that issue securities. It requires these companies to disclose important information so investors have access to basic facts. Key SEC filings include annual 10-K reports, quarterly 10-Q reports, and current 8-K reports of material events. The SEC faces challenges in overseeing thousands of public companies with limited resources and staff turnover.
The document summarizes the rise and fall of telecommunications company WorldCom. It traces WorldCom's history from its founding in 1983 as a small long distance provider to becoming the second largest telecom company by 1998 after acquiring over 30 other companies. However, to meet Wall Street expectations and cover losses, WorldCom fraudulently reported billions in line costs as capital expenditures between 2000-2002. When the SEC investigated suspicious financial reports, WorldCom admitted to the $3.8 billion accounting fraud, causing its stock price to plummet and filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy.
FAQs COVID-19: A practical guide to frequently asked offshore law questions /...Loeb Smith Attorneys
COVID-19: A practical guide to frequently asked offshore law questions
Having considered the impact of Covid-19 on meetings, economic substance and the execution of documents in parts I to III of this guide, we now examine its impact on the BVI Registry of Corporate Affairs and the Cayman Islands Registrar of Companies, as well as the issue of liquidity and financial distress with respect to BVI and Cayman Islands companies.
WorldCom was a telecommunications company that grew rapidly through acquisitions but suffered the largest accounting fraud in U.S. history. The CEO dominated decision-making and many board members had conflicts of interest as both directors and shareholders. Weak internal controls and lack of independent oversight allowed the fraud to occur, inflating revenues by $11 billion. Reforms were needed to strengthen auditing, install truly independent boards, and implement strong ethical standards and internal controls to prevent future scandals.
WorldCom was a global telecommunications company that grew rapidly in the 1990s through acquisitions. However, the failed acquisition of Sprint in 2000 caused financial difficulties as costs rose. The CEO and CFO then engaged in a $3.8 billion accounting fraud scheme over 5 quarters from 2001-2002 to misrepresent expenses. This involved improperly releasing expense reserves and misclassifying line costs as capital expenditures. An internal audit uncovered the fraud in 2002, plunging the company into bankruptcy and resulting in numerous prosecutions, including the 25-year imprisonment of former CEO Bernie Ebbers.
Here are some ways the WorldCom board could have improved its corporate governance:
- Been more independent from management and exercised stronger oversight of financial reporting. The board appeared to rubber stamp whatever the CEO wanted.
- Had audit committees comprised solely of independent directors to oversee the financial auditing process. WorldCom's audit committee included non-independent directors.
- Rotated auditing firms more frequently to reduce coziness between auditors and management. WorldCom kept Andersen on for years.
- Established stricter controls over financial reporting to prevent the massive accounting fraud that occurred. No meaningful controls were in place.
- Terminated the CEO once massive accounting problems came to light instead of allowing him to
Small and medium sized businesses are the engines which drive the North American economy. Increasingly, people go in to their own business. Often spouses and other family members are in business together. Because of mutual trust and sharing which exists at the start of these arrangements, spouses tend not to make agrements about what will happen if the marriage breaks down.
When spouses who are in business together divorce, there are also consequences for the business. Who will keep the business? What will the spouses be able to work together? How much is the business worth? Who should buy the business? How will a buyout be funded? These questions are just the tip of the iceberg.
In this PowerPoint slide presentation, we provide useful information about the legal problems confronting separating or divorcing couples who are in business together. By reviewing these slides you will gain important insights about the issues lawyers have to deal with in these situations. What law applies? What other kinds of experts do you need? What legal advice will you need to find a workable resolution? What evidence will you need if the case has to go to trial? What procedure must be followed? If you are in business with your spouse or life partner, the information in these slides provides a few pointers about Ontario law even if the relationship is continuing. Sometimes, a unanimous shareholders’ agreement or some strategic advice can help avoid expensive litigation down the road.
These slides were part of a presentation at a lawyers conference conducted by Osgoode Professional Development in Toronto on March 27, 2012. They are intended as information only and not legal advice.
The authors are experienced litigation and arbitration lawyers in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, who act on complex shareholder disputes, typically involving closely-held corporations.
Jimmy Gentry presents "Securities and Exchange Commission Filings" during the Reynolds Center for Business Journalism's annual Business Journalism Week, Jan. 4, 2014. Gentry is the Clyde M. Reed Teaching Professor at the University of Kansas' School of Journalism and Mass Communications.
The annual event features two concurrent seminars, Business Journalism Professors and Strictly Financials for journalists.
For more information about business journalism training, please visit http://businessjournalism.org.
The document provides an overview of the rise and fall of WorldCom, a major telecommunications company that collapsed in 2002 due to accounting fraud. It discusses WorldCom's growth through acquisitions in the 1990s, the accounting investigation that revealed $3.8 billion in fraud, and the resulting bankruptcy. It then outlines recommendations to prevent future fraud, including strengthening corporate governance through independent boards and audits, implementing whistleblower policies, and securing financial reporting through controls and periodic reconciliations.
The document summarizes a presentation on fraud and corruption given by various speakers. It discusses trends in fraud due to the current financial crisis, including types of financial misrepresentation and data theft being seen. It also covers how the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act affects UK businesses through its anti-bribery provisions and jurisdiction.
How to Form an Angel or Venture Fund: Legal, Business and Tax Strategiesideatoipo
While large amounts of pooled capital continue to be invested in startups, the legal, tax and regulatory environment continues to evolve. Many entrepreneurs and investors pool their capital into vehicles designed to invest in startups. Others form funds to manage investments by other passive investors.
Join us as we discuss the complex web of legal, tax and regulatory requirements for forming and operating a fund.
Two Silicon Valley attorneys will discuss the nuts and bolts of forming an angel or venture fund, including:
1) Types of investment funds designed to invest in startups
2) Typical investment fund terms
3) Various ways of structuring the distribution waterfall
3) Special tax rules applicable to fund managers (and some related tax issues on the investors side)
4) The federal and state registration requirements for fund managers;
Securities law issues for funds
5) Special considerations for foreign investors in funds
6) CFIUS considerations for funds with foreign investors
and more!
WorldCom started as a small long distance provider in 1983 and grew through many acquisitions to become the second largest telecom company in the US by 1998. However, the dot-com bust led to revenue shortfalls and high debt. To hide losses and meet Wall Street expectations, WorldCom fraudulently classified $3.8 billion in operating expenses as capital expenditures. An internal audit uncovered the fraud in 2002, and WorldCom filed for bankruptcy, resulting in 57,000 job losses and $180 billion in lost shareholder value. CEO Bernie Ebbers and CFO Scott Sullivan were later convicted for their role in the massive accounting scandal.
This document provides an overview of the accounting fraud scandal at WorldCom that led to its bankruptcy filing in 2002. It describes how WorldCom improperly recorded $3.8 billion in capital expenditures as expenses over five quarters between 2001-2002 in order to artificially inflate profits. This was uncovered in June 2002 and had severe consequences, as WorldCom filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection shortly after, listing over $100 billion in assets but $41 billion in debt. The document examines who was responsible and the impact on the telecommunications industry.
Lessons learnt from the Carillion collapse part 1: Selecting a financially sound provider webinar
Thursday 21 February 2019
presented by
Philip Reese and Dr Jon Broome
The link to the write up page and resources of this webinar:
https://www.apm.org.uk/news/lessons-learnt-from-the-carillion-collapse-part-1-selecting-a-financially-sound-provider-webinar/
In house Counsel Alert: Foreign and Domestic Corruption PresentationThis account is closed
The document discusses corruption of foreign public officials and domestic corruption laws. It provides an overview of international anti-corruption laws and enforcement developments in Canada, the US, and UK. It then analyzes the Griffiths Energy case, where a Canadian energy company paid bribes to Chad's ambassador, as a lesson for in-house counsel on addressing corruption risks from third parties.
WorldCom began as a small Mississippi company and grew rapidly through acquisitions, becoming the second largest telecommunications provider in the US. However, in 2002 it filed for the largest bankruptcy in US history due to $11 billion in accounting fraud over 3 years. WorldCom fraudulently capitalized operating expenses to inflate revenue and profits. After numerous mergers, management struggled to integrate the companies and concealed this from investors. Weak board oversight and a desire to meet numbers allowed the fraud to occur until WorldCom collapsed under $41 billion of debt.
Public Company Reporting (Series: Securities Law Made Simple (Not Really) Financial Poise
Once public, a company is subject to a continuously evolving landscape of disclosure and reporting requirements. Recent disclosure developments have addressed everything from executive compensation to cybersecurity. In addition, the prevalence of social media has made it such that a company must now consider not only the nuances of what to disclose but also how to deliver that disclosure. Is your company tweeting its earnings reports; are you using your corporate Facebook page to make Regulation FD disclosures?
In this webinar our expert panel provides you with a high-level overview of key public company reporting and disclosure requirements, including the latest developments brought about by the Dodd-Frank Act, JOBS Act, FAST Act and, most recently, the SEC’s Disclosure Effectiveness Initiative, as well as provide you with tangible examples and practical advice on how to comply with the ever-changing means of delivering that disclosure.
To view the accompanying webinar, go to: https://www.financialpoise.com/financial-poise-webinars/public-company-reporting-2020/
Practical Guidance on Securities Offerings (including High Yield and Initial ...Winston & Strawn LLP
The third installment of The Real Deal, “Practical Guidance on Securities and Initial Public Offerings in a Changing Environment,” was held on March 18, 2014. The Real Deal is a webinar series addressing current trends, challenges, and legal topics pertinent to M&A and securities professionals.
Winston & Strawn partners Jim Junewicz, Cabell Morris, and Karen Weber participated in an interactive webinar focused on what you need to know about the latest developments in securities offerings, including high yield offerings and IPOs.
This document discusses trends in FCPA enforcement against companies in the aerospace and defense industry. It provides an overview of the FCPA and UK Bribery Act, noting their broad jurisdiction and enforcement. Recent cases highlighted trends of authorities targeting the use of third parties, executives, and undercover operations. Operating in certain high-risk countries and dealing with state-owned entities also carries risks. The document advises companies in this industry to implement robust compliance programs to mitigate these corruption risks.
WorldCom announced in June 2002 that it intended to restate its financial statements for 2001 and Q1 2002, revealing $3.8 billion in improper accounting transfers from line cost expenses to asset accounts. Less than a month later, WorldCom filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. It was subsequently discovered that an additional $3.8 billion in earnings had been improperly reported from 1999-Q1 2002. The fraud was carried out through improper reductions of line costs and false revenue adjustments. Key players involved included CEO Bernard Ebbers and CFO Scott Sullivan. The toxic culture and lack of board oversight enabled the massive accounting fraud.
The document discusses the role and functions of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The SEC was created in the 1930s to restore investor confidence following the stock market crash and regulates companies that issue securities. It requires these companies to disclose important information so investors have access to basic facts. Key SEC filings include annual 10-K reports, quarterly 10-Q reports, and current 8-K reports of material events. The SEC faces challenges in overseeing thousands of public companies with limited resources and staff turnover.
The document summarizes the rise and fall of telecommunications company WorldCom. It traces WorldCom's history from its founding in 1983 as a small long distance provider to becoming the second largest telecom company by 1998 after acquiring over 30 other companies. However, to meet Wall Street expectations and cover losses, WorldCom fraudulently reported billions in line costs as capital expenditures between 2000-2002. When the SEC investigated suspicious financial reports, WorldCom admitted to the $3.8 billion accounting fraud, causing its stock price to plummet and filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy.
FAQs COVID-19: A practical guide to frequently asked offshore law questions /...Loeb Smith Attorneys
COVID-19: A practical guide to frequently asked offshore law questions
Having considered the impact of Covid-19 on meetings, economic substance and the execution of documents in parts I to III of this guide, we now examine its impact on the BVI Registry of Corporate Affairs and the Cayman Islands Registrar of Companies, as well as the issue of liquidity and financial distress with respect to BVI and Cayman Islands companies.
WorldCom was a telecommunications company that grew rapidly through acquisitions but suffered the largest accounting fraud in U.S. history. The CEO dominated decision-making and many board members had conflicts of interest as both directors and shareholders. Weak internal controls and lack of independent oversight allowed the fraud to occur, inflating revenues by $11 billion. Reforms were needed to strengthen auditing, install truly independent boards, and implement strong ethical standards and internal controls to prevent future scandals.
WorldCom was a global telecommunications company that grew rapidly in the 1990s through acquisitions. However, the failed acquisition of Sprint in 2000 caused financial difficulties as costs rose. The CEO and CFO then engaged in a $3.8 billion accounting fraud scheme over 5 quarters from 2001-2002 to misrepresent expenses. This involved improperly releasing expense reserves and misclassifying line costs as capital expenditures. An internal audit uncovered the fraud in 2002, plunging the company into bankruptcy and resulting in numerous prosecutions, including the 25-year imprisonment of former CEO Bernie Ebbers.
Here are some ways the WorldCom board could have improved its corporate governance:
- Been more independent from management and exercised stronger oversight of financial reporting. The board appeared to rubber stamp whatever the CEO wanted.
- Had audit committees comprised solely of independent directors to oversee the financial auditing process. WorldCom's audit committee included non-independent directors.
- Rotated auditing firms more frequently to reduce coziness between auditors and management. WorldCom kept Andersen on for years.
- Established stricter controls over financial reporting to prevent the massive accounting fraud that occurred. No meaningful controls were in place.
- Terminated the CEO once massive accounting problems came to light instead of allowing him to
Small and medium sized businesses are the engines which drive the North American economy. Increasingly, people go in to their own business. Often spouses and other family members are in business together. Because of mutual trust and sharing which exists at the start of these arrangements, spouses tend not to make agrements about what will happen if the marriage breaks down.
When spouses who are in business together divorce, there are also consequences for the business. Who will keep the business? What will the spouses be able to work together? How much is the business worth? Who should buy the business? How will a buyout be funded? These questions are just the tip of the iceberg.
In this PowerPoint slide presentation, we provide useful information about the legal problems confronting separating or divorcing couples who are in business together. By reviewing these slides you will gain important insights about the issues lawyers have to deal with in these situations. What law applies? What other kinds of experts do you need? What legal advice will you need to find a workable resolution? What evidence will you need if the case has to go to trial? What procedure must be followed? If you are in business with your spouse or life partner, the information in these slides provides a few pointers about Ontario law even if the relationship is continuing. Sometimes, a unanimous shareholders’ agreement or some strategic advice can help avoid expensive litigation down the road.
These slides were part of a presentation at a lawyers conference conducted by Osgoode Professional Development in Toronto on March 27, 2012. They are intended as information only and not legal advice.
The authors are experienced litigation and arbitration lawyers in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, who act on complex shareholder disputes, typically involving closely-held corporations.
Jimmy Gentry presents "Securities and Exchange Commission Filings" during the Reynolds Center for Business Journalism's annual Business Journalism Week, Jan. 4, 2014. Gentry is the Clyde M. Reed Teaching Professor at the University of Kansas' School of Journalism and Mass Communications.
The annual event features two concurrent seminars, Business Journalism Professors and Strictly Financials for journalists.
For more information about business journalism training, please visit http://businessjournalism.org.
The document provides an overview of the rise and fall of WorldCom, a major telecommunications company that collapsed in 2002 due to accounting fraud. It discusses WorldCom's growth through acquisitions in the 1990s, the accounting investigation that revealed $3.8 billion in fraud, and the resulting bankruptcy. It then outlines recommendations to prevent future fraud, including strengthening corporate governance through independent boards and audits, implementing whistleblower policies, and securing financial reporting through controls and periodic reconciliations.
The document summarizes a presentation on fraud and corruption given by various speakers. It discusses trends in fraud due to the current financial crisis, including types of financial misrepresentation and data theft being seen. It also covers how the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act affects UK businesses through its anti-bribery provisions and jurisdiction.
How to Form an Angel or Venture Fund: Legal, Business and Tax Strategiesideatoipo
While large amounts of pooled capital continue to be invested in startups, the legal, tax and regulatory environment continues to evolve. Many entrepreneurs and investors pool their capital into vehicles designed to invest in startups. Others form funds to manage investments by other passive investors.
Join us as we discuss the complex web of legal, tax and regulatory requirements for forming and operating a fund.
Two Silicon Valley attorneys will discuss the nuts and bolts of forming an angel or venture fund, including:
1) Types of investment funds designed to invest in startups
2) Typical investment fund terms
3) Various ways of structuring the distribution waterfall
3) Special tax rules applicable to fund managers (and some related tax issues on the investors side)
4) The federal and state registration requirements for fund managers;
Securities law issues for funds
5) Special considerations for foreign investors in funds
6) CFIUS considerations for funds with foreign investors
and more!
WorldCom started as a small long distance provider in 1983 and grew through many acquisitions to become the second largest telecom company in the US by 1998. However, the dot-com bust led to revenue shortfalls and high debt. To hide losses and meet Wall Street expectations, WorldCom fraudulently classified $3.8 billion in operating expenses as capital expenditures. An internal audit uncovered the fraud in 2002, and WorldCom filed for bankruptcy, resulting in 57,000 job losses and $180 billion in lost shareholder value. CEO Bernie Ebbers and CFO Scott Sullivan were later convicted for their role in the massive accounting scandal.
This document provides an overview of the accounting fraud scandal at WorldCom that led to its bankruptcy filing in 2002. It describes how WorldCom improperly recorded $3.8 billion in capital expenditures as expenses over five quarters between 2001-2002 in order to artificially inflate profits. This was uncovered in June 2002 and had severe consequences, as WorldCom filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection shortly after, listing over $100 billion in assets but $41 billion in debt. The document examines who was responsible and the impact on the telecommunications industry.
Lessons learnt from the Carillion collapse part 1: Selecting a financially sound provider webinar
Thursday 21 February 2019
presented by
Philip Reese and Dr Jon Broome
The link to the write up page and resources of this webinar:
https://www.apm.org.uk/news/lessons-learnt-from-the-carillion-collapse-part-1-selecting-a-financially-sound-provider-webinar/
In house Counsel Alert: Foreign and Domestic Corruption PresentationThis account is closed
The document discusses corruption of foreign public officials and domestic corruption laws. It provides an overview of international anti-corruption laws and enforcement developments in Canada, the US, and UK. It then analyzes the Griffiths Energy case, where a Canadian energy company paid bribes to Chad's ambassador, as a lesson for in-house counsel on addressing corruption risks from third parties.
WorldCom began as a small Mississippi company and grew rapidly through acquisitions, becoming the second largest telecommunications provider in the US. However, in 2002 it filed for the largest bankruptcy in US history due to $11 billion in accounting fraud over 3 years. WorldCom fraudulently capitalized operating expenses to inflate revenue and profits. After numerous mergers, management struggled to integrate the companies and concealed this from investors. Weak board oversight and a desire to meet numbers allowed the fraud to occur until WorldCom collapsed under $41 billion of debt.
Public Company Reporting (Series: Securities Law Made Simple (Not Really) Financial Poise
Once public, a company is subject to a continuously evolving landscape of disclosure and reporting requirements. Recent disclosure developments have addressed everything from executive compensation to cybersecurity. In addition, the prevalence of social media has made it such that a company must now consider not only the nuances of what to disclose but also how to deliver that disclosure. Is your company tweeting its earnings reports; are you using your corporate Facebook page to make Regulation FD disclosures?
In this webinar our expert panel provides you with a high-level overview of key public company reporting and disclosure requirements, including the latest developments brought about by the Dodd-Frank Act, JOBS Act, FAST Act and, most recently, the SEC’s Disclosure Effectiveness Initiative, as well as provide you with tangible examples and practical advice on how to comply with the ever-changing means of delivering that disclosure.
To view the accompanying webinar, go to: https://www.financialpoise.com/financial-poise-webinars/public-company-reporting-2020/
Practical Guidance on Securities Offerings (including High Yield and Initial ...Winston & Strawn LLP
The third installment of The Real Deal, “Practical Guidance on Securities and Initial Public Offerings in a Changing Environment,” was held on March 18, 2014. The Real Deal is a webinar series addressing current trends, challenges, and legal topics pertinent to M&A and securities professionals.
Winston & Strawn partners Jim Junewicz, Cabell Morris, and Karen Weber participated in an interactive webinar focused on what you need to know about the latest developments in securities offerings, including high yield offerings and IPOs.
The document discusses the role and history of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). It was created in 1929 after the stock market crash to restore confidence in markets. The SEC aims to protect investors, maintain fair and orderly markets, and facilitate capital formation. It requires certain companies to file annual and periodic financial reports to provide transparency to investors. The document outlines various forms such as 10-K, 8-K, 10-Q that are filed with the SEC to disclose important company information.
The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 was enacted in response to several major corporate accounting scandals to increase corporate accountability and protect investors. It created the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board to oversee accounting firms and audit quality. It also mandated executive responsibility for financial reports, independent audits of public companies, real-time disclosure of insider stock trades, limits on non-audit services by auditing firms, and criminal penalties for erasing records or destroying evidence of fraudulent financial reports. The Act aimed to restore investor confidence in the integrity of financial markets through heightened transparency and accountability.
In this age of global business operations and opportunities, it is a business imperative to have an effective FCPA Compliance Program. In this webinar co-hosted with Paul Murdock of MCG Consulting we explore and discuss Foreign Corrupt Practices Act compliance and actions to achieve a FCPA Compliance Program.
For a full video of the recording visit: https://mco.mycomplianceoffice.com/mco-webinar/foreign-corrupt-practices-act-fcpa-compliance-webinar
The document provides information on recent changes and issues related to valuation:
- It discusses recent changes to unclaimed property programs in Delaware, Illinois, and Texas that increase compliance risks and the need for companies to review reporting requirements.
- It covers the importance of carefully crafting arbitration clauses in contracts to control dispute resolution processes and mitigate risks.
- It summarizes the new IFRS 16 lease accounting standard, which will require most operating leases to be recorded on company balance sheets, significantly impacting financial reporting for some industries. It provides an overview of the measurement and implementation considerations.
Best Practices to Achieve an Effective FCPA Compliance ProgramMyComplianceOffice
In this age of global business, it is imperative to have an effective FCPA compliance program. In this webinar co-hosted with Paul Murdock of MCG Consulting we touched on:
-The Foreign Corrupt Practices Act compliance
-How to build an effective FCPA Compliance program
-Learn how to prepare your program to 'protect' your company
To watch video recordings of this webinar visit; https://mco.mycomplianceoffice.com/mco-webinar/best-practices-to-achieve-an-effective-fcpa-compliance-program
What is SEC?
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) oversees the key participants in the securities world.
Concerned with promoting disclosure of important market information, maintaining fair dealing, and protecting against fraud.
Responsibilities include:
Interpret and enforce federal securities laws
Issue new rules and amend existing rules
Oversee inspection of securities firms, brokers, investment advisers and ratings agencies
Oversee private regulatory organizations in securities, accounting, auditing fields
Coordinate U.S. securities regulation with federal, state, and foreign authorities
SEC Organization:
Division of Corporate Finance:Reviews documents required to be filed with the Commission
Division of Trading: Assists in maintaining fair, orderly and efficient markets.
Division of Investment Management: Maintains oversight of America’s $26T investment management industry
Division of Enforcement: Recommends commencement of investigations of SEC law violations
Division of Economic and Risk Analysis: Integrates robust economic analysis and data analytics
Laws Governing SEC:
Securities Act of 1933
Securities Exchange Act of 1934
Trust Indenture Act of 1939
Investment Company Act of 1940
Investment Advisers Act of 1940
Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 2010
Jumpstart Our Business Startups Act of 2012
SEC Reports:
8k - A report of unscheduled material events or corporate changes at a company that could be of importance to the shareholders or SEC
10k - Comprehensive summary report of a company's performance. Submitted annually to the SEC
10Q - A comprehensive report of a company's performance that must be submitted quarterly by all public companies to SEC. In10-Q, firms are required to disclose relevant information regarding their financial position.
18K - Use to update the SEC and investors regarding the status of a domestically traded foreign security and its issuer.
20F - A form issued by the SEC that must be submitted by all "foreign private issuers" that have listed equity shares on exchanges in the U.S.
SEC Investigations:
Can be triggered in many ways
Investigation is not the same as prosecution
Investigations involve fact finding and are usually not public
During an investigation, neither the staff nor the Commission makes any determination of wrongdoing
Following investigation, SEC staff present findings to the Commission
Commission can authorize the staff to file a case in federal court or bring an administrative action.
Forum for Financial Institution Directors: How Do Directors Prepare for the W...Winston & Strawn LLP
This presentation focuses on bringing information of great importance to Directors. The Forum brings together board directors, legal advisors, and regulators to discuss challenges that face directors in this industry, share best practices on regulatory compliance, risk and audit committee priorities, proxy issues, the changing face of director liabilities, avoiding enforcement actions against directors, and directors and officers insurance considerations.
This panel included Robb Adkins, chair of the firm’s white collar, regulatory defense, and investigations practice, Scott DeVries, chair of the insurance recovery practice, and Jim Smith, chair of the firm’s securities class action defense group. Christine Edwards moderated the panel. Topics presented in a discussion format included:
What are trends in securities class action cases and how can Directors address the risks they present?
When criminal allegations are involved, how should Directors address those cases differently?
Should Directors and Officers liability insurance discussions be different this year and include the entire board?
The document discusses regulatory trends and issues on the horizon based on a presentation by Lesley Hand. It summarizes SEC enforcement actions in 2014, SEC examination priorities for 2015, including protecting retail investors, assessing market risks, and using data analytics. It also discusses SEC actions related to the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act in 2014 and trends, including settlements by financial institutions totaling $65 billion in 2014. Finally, it discusses concepts related to fraud, and provides examples of enforcement actions and consequences against individuals like Yale Asbell and Edward Cummings.
Will Congress and the President Reform Reg A and Reg D in 2012?REISA
The document discusses potential reforms to Regulations A and D in 2012. It summarizes a webinar hosted by REISA that featured a panel discussing Regulation A and the proposed Regulation A Reform bill. The panel also discussed the Private Company Flexibility and Growth Act, which proposes increasing the shareholder threshold to trigger public registration from 500 to 1,000 shareholders.
Jimmy Gentry presents "SEC Filings Overview" during Reynolds Business Journalism Week 2013.
Reynolds Business Journalism Week is an all-expenses-paid seminar for journalists looking to enhance their business coverage, and professors looking to enhance or create business journalism courses.
For more information about business journalism training, please visit businessjournalism.org.
Jimmy Gentry presents "SEC Documents" during Reynolds Business Journalism Week 2013.
Reynolds Business Journalism Week is an all-expenses-paid seminar for journalists looking to enhance their business coverage, and professors looking to enhance or create business journalism courses.
For more information about business journalism training, please visit businessjournalism.org.
1. The document discusses financial crime and provides examples of large cases involving companies like Odebrecht and Danske Bank that engaged in money laundering and bribery.
2. It also discusses new regulations and initiatives aimed at combating financial crime like public registers of beneficial ownership, new tax substance rules, and the 6th EU Anti-Money Laundering Directive.
3. The presentation concludes by taking questions and noting that prosecutions for financial crime are expected to increase in the future as regulations and enforcement tighten globally.
Crowdfunding from the Start-Up's Perspective (Series: Crowdfunding)Financial Poise
How can businesses use the tools created by the JOBS Act to access capital? This webinar compares raising money online to traditional methods of capital raising. It also compares each of the different titles available under the JOBS Act. Finally, we discuss and compare the differences between security based crowdfunding and rewards based crowdfunding, exploring those instances where such a method would make sense.
To view the accompanying webinar, go to: https://www.financialpoise.com/financial-poise-webinars/crowdfunding-from-the-start-ups-perspective-2021/
Small businesses in North Carolina will soon be permitted to raise up to $2 million from average investors with certain limits. This is the result of legislation passed by the North Carolina General Assembly in July 2016. Businesses that use the “Invest N.C. exemption” can utilize the Internet to organize such a fundraiser. However, firms must follow certain regulations, including requirements on how much can be raised from each investor, what kind of financial information must be disclosed, and periodic reporting requirements to keep investors informed. The N.C. Securities Division will oversee administration of the crowdfunding exemption.This seminar is planned as an overview of investment crowdfunding for businesses that may want to utilize this option. The speaker will cover the following:
-a regulatory overview and how crowdfunding fits within securities laws
-the legal do’s and don’ts of a crowdfunding offering
-the marketing aspects
-what you can say and how to reach investors
-utilizing a web site intermediary – picking one and connecting with investors.
Jimmy Gentry on 'Securities and Exchange Commission Filings" at Reynolds Business Journalism Week, Feb. 4-7, 2011.
Reynolds Center for Business Journalism, BusinessJournalism.org, Arizona State University's Walter Cronkite School of Journalism.
Companies operating with employees in the U.S. need to be aware of state and federal employment laws. Employees can be a business’s greatest asset, but it may seem that there is a potential employment pitfall at every turn. The consequences of mishandling issues can be costly and time-consuming.
On June 13, 2019, Winston hosted the inaugural Nordic Session – “Avoiding Employment Law Landmines” presented by Monique Ngo-Bonnici, Jason Campbell, and Nordic Session hosts Uri Doron and Jared Manes. The presenters discussed employment litigation trends and provided practical strategies on a number of labor and employment-related issues.
More information, including an audio recording, is available here:
https://www.winston.com/en/thought-leadership/the-nordic-sessions-avoiding-employment-law-landmines.html
Latest Developments Regarding Arbitration in Hong Kong and Mainland ChinaWinston & Strawn LLP
The arbitration landscape is ever-changing, with new legislation being promulgated, cases coming up, and ideas being tested. In part three of this series, Partner Terence Wong explored the latest developments regarding arbitration in Hong Kong and Mainland China, including a case handed down by the Court of Final Appeal, and a decision of the Indian Court dealing with the split of the China International Economic and Trade Arbitration Commission (CIETAC), which may have an impact on the enforcement of CIETAC arbitral awards in other jurisdictions.
Contact Winston & Strawn for more information about this presentation: https://www.winston.com/en/thought-leadership/latest-developments-regarding-arbitration-in-hong-kong-and-mainland-china.html
Recent Trends in Regulatory Actions Impacting Banks and Financial InstitutionsWinston & Strawn LLP
This presentation addresses recent trends in regulatory actions impacting banks and financial institutions. It focuses on how attendees can minimize their impact on their respective organizations as a lawyer, leader of a line of business, member of the Board of Directors, or a risk management, compliance, finance, and internal audit professional.
The presentation also addresses trends in formal enforcement actions, observations related to recent regulatory agency matters, and noteworthy recent public enforcement matters. It includes lessons learned in preventing matters requiring attention from turning into formal actions and best practices in conducting lookback reviews.
More information, including an audio recording, is available here: https://www.winston.com/en/thought-leadership/recent-trends-in-regulatory-actions-impacting-banks-and-financial-institutions.html.
For better or worse, electronic data is at the heart of many legal investigations. Therefore, it is becoming increasingly important for lawyers to have a basic understanding of computer forensics including:
- what computer forensics is and what types of things can a computer forensic expert do;
- types of mistakes lawyers or IT professionals make that can corrupt, alter, or destroy evidence that is key to investigations;
what types of electronic evidence exists;
- ways to work efficiently and effectively with a computer forensic expert; and
- when to consider hiring and how to choose a computer forensic expert as part of an investigation
Learn more from Winston & Strawn and listen to the presentation here: https://www.winston.com/en/thought-leadership/computer-forensics-what-every-lawyer-needs-to-know.html.
Maximizing Deductions in Light of the Section 162(m) GuidanceWinston & Strawn LLP
Winston & Strawn’s Employee Benefits & Executive Compensation Practice hosted “Maximizing Deductions in Light of the Section 162(m) Guidance” on September 6, 2018.
The IRS recently issued Notice 2018-68 providing much anticipated guidance on the key issues with respect to the Section 162(m) amendments added by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.
Partners Michael Melbinger, Nyron Persaud, and Ruth Wimer presented this webinar focused on understanding the impact of Notice 2018-68, including:
- Brief overview of the changes in Section 162(m) as a result of the Tax Act
- In depth discussion and analysis of Notice 2018-68: Covered employee, written binding contract, material modification
- “To do” list for maximizing deductions going forward
- Alternative compensation strategies
- Proxy Statement Reporting
- Accounting issues
Learn more here: https://www.winston.com/en/thought-leadership/maximizing-deduction-in-light-of-the-section-162m-guidance.html.
Regulators on the Move – Recent Treasury and Comptroller Actions: How They Af...Winston & Strawn LLP
This document summarizes recent regulatory actions and initiatives that affect financial institutions and their boards of directors. It discusses a Treasury report on nonbank financial companies and fintech, the OCC's announcement allowing fintech companies to apply for national bank charters, the BCFP's participation in an international fintech regulatory cooperation group, and other related developments. The actions reflect a changing landscape with increasing fintech competition and opportunities for banks through partnerships with innovative companies. Banks will need to carefully navigate the uncertainties of these overlapping and possibly conflicting regulatory initiatives.
Winston & Strawn's Employee Benefits & Executive Compensation Practice hosted an eLunch to discuss key issues faced by plan sponsors during IRS and DOL audits of retirement plans. The most common problem areas identified by IRS and DOL agents were addressed, with practical tips for plan sponsors on how to establish and maintain internal controls to help avoid compliance errors. Topics included:
-The most significant issues DOL agents focus on during audits, including missing participants, late payroll deposits, and missed employee communications
-The most significant issues IRS agents focus on during audits, including definitions of compensation, age 70-1/2 distributions, employee eligibility requirements, and properly updated plan documents
-Steps employers can take in order to improve their internal controls for compliance with IRS and DOL requirements
Contact Winston & Strawn for more information about this presentation:
https://www.winston.com/en/thought-leadership/irs-and-dol-audit-issues-for-retirement-plans.html
Solutions to Section 301 Tariffs on Products from China—Managing the Shock of...Winston & Strawn LLP
As part of an on-going international trade dispute between the United States and China, on July 6, 2018, the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) imposed additional 25% tariffs on the importation of products from China that fall within 818 different classifications of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS). Since that time, the USTR has proposed additional 25% tariffs on an another large group of tariff classifications, and the week of July 9 proposed additional 10% tariffs on a third set of tariff classifications. These additional tariffs are based on an investigation under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974 into the government of China’s acts, policies, and practices related to technology transfer, intellectual property, and innovation.
These Section 301 tariffs are a financial shock to many Chinese suppliers and their U.S. customers and may even drive some companies out of business. However, there are procedures available for seeking removal of certain HTSUS classes of goods from the Section 301 tariffs, other procedures for seeking exemptions of particular products from those tariffs, and if necessary, supply chains can be reconfigured to avoid those tariffs.
Contact Winston & Strawn for more information about this presentation: https://www.winston.com/en/thought-leadership/solutions-to-section-301-tariffs-on-products-from-chinamanaging-the-shock-of-25-increase-in-cost-of-goods.html.
Best Practices for Anti-Bribery and Anti-Corruption (ABAC) ComplianceWinston & Strawn LLP
Winston & Strawn hosted a webinar titled “Best Practices for Anti-Bribery and Anti-Corruption (ABAC) Compliance.”
The interactive webinar focused on the following ABAC compliance topics:
- Anti-bribery and anti-corruption authorities
- Essential elements of a comprehensive and effective compliance program
- Implementing your compliance program in real-world scenarios
- Problem management and escalation protocol
Winston & Strawn partners Peter Crowther, Nicholas Usher, and Eva Davis hosted a discussion on the latest developments in international corporate transactions and antitrust/competition law.
Among other topics, they discussed current market practices for U.S. companies doing transactions in Europe, as well as key takeaways from some of the recent matters they have handled.
The document provides an overview of recent legislative, regulatory, and policy developments that are impacting the financial services industry. Key points include:
- The Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act provides regulatory relief for smaller banks and raises various asset thresholds.
- Recent speeches by Federal Reserve officials emphasize transparency in regulatory policies and balancing pre-positioning of capital with flexibility.
- The OCC Comptroller is urging banks to meet consumers' short-term small dollar credit needs.
- The presentation discusses the implications of these changes for regulatory burden, competition between large and small banks, and issues for banks' boards of directors to consider.
Trade Secret Protection: Practical Advice on Protecting and Defending Your Or...Winston & Strawn LLP
Winston's Global Privacy & Data Security Task Force presented an interactive webinar focused on some of the practical ways to prevent theft of key information, investigation tips, and strategies to defend against the use of that information after a theft.
Cryptocurrency Crackdown: What You Need to Know about Enhanced IRS/Government...Winston & Strawn LLP
With a newly assembled team of specialized investigators, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has dedicated substantial resources to investigating cryptocurrency use in tax evasion. According to the IRS, any taxpayer who has engaged in a virtual currency transaction without properly reporting it has failed to comply with U.S. tax law.
As John Doe Summonses seeking the identities of investors are served on cryptocurrency trading exchanges, significant IRS civil and criminal investigations will ensue. The New York Attorney General’s Office has announced an investigation into the policies and practices of cryptocurrency trading exchanges. The SEC, CFTC, and other regulators have announced initiatives as well.
Winston & Strawn hosted “Cryptocurrency Crackdown: What You Need to Know about Enhanced IRS/Government Scrutiny of Cryptocurrency Transactions.” The program examined the IRS’s newest substantive and procedural initiatives regarding cryptocurrency transactions, the reporting obligations that U.S. taxpayers must follow, corrective steps that may still be taken to mitigate exposure, and appropriate tax structuring of these transactions.
The program also provided an overview of the latest developments in regulatory investigations.
In 2017, Nevada became the 36th state to ratify the The Equal Rights Amendment (ERA). This spring, Illinois could become the 37th. With one additional state ratification—and one more vote in Congress—our Constitution could finally guarantee equality to all people regardless of sex.
“The Equal Rights Amendment: Legal Issues and Implications” was designed to answer recurring questions about the legal implications of the ratification effort, including why ratifying the ERA is still important and necessary, what the ERA would (and would not) accomplish, and why it is not too late.
https://www.winston.com/en/equal-rights-amendment.html
For a few brief months in late 2017, the five-member National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) operated at full-strength and with a Republican majority for the first time in a decade. The “new” NLRB’s case outcomes were consequential, and included reversals of several perceived pro-labor decisions from the prior Obama NLRB. Then, Chairman Miscimarra’s term expired in December, and the NLRB settled back into a 2-2 equipoise. Looking ahead, employers will likely not wait long for another shift in the NLRB’s political make-up, as President Trump’s latest nominee, Republican John Ring, awaits confirmation by the Senate.
Winston & Strawn Partners Bill Miossi and Derek Barella review the NLRB’s late 2017 flurry of activity and likely issues and agenda items to be taken up by the Trump NLRB in 2018.
2018 Hot Topics for Health & Welfare Plans, Fringe Benefits, and Withholding ...Winston & Strawn LLP
Winston & Strawn’s Employee Benefits & Executive Compensation Practice presented an eLunch titled “2018 Hot Topics for Health & Welfare Plans, Fringe Benefits, and Withholding Rates.”
This presentation featured a discussion of the following hot button issues:
- Updates on Affordable Care Act (ACA) employer shared responsibility
- Tax Act changes to the ACA
- Tax Act changes to fringe benefit rules
- Tax Act changes to employer tax withholding rates, including for bonuses and other supplemental payments
The Real Deal Webinar Series: Delaware Law Developments/Recent Judicial Decis...Winston & Strawn LLP
The presentation included a discussion of current issues and recent judicial decisions affecting M&A transactions and corporate governance for Delaware companies from a transactional perspective.
The EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) takes effect on May 25, 2018. GDPR significantly increases the requirements imposed on companies touching the personal data of EU citizens, and also increases oversight by the EU member states’ data protection authorities. And the consequences of non-compliance under GDPR are massive—the greater of €20 million or four percent of the company’s worldwide turnover.
The Real Deal Webinar Series: Practical Advice from a Former Chief Compliance...Winston & Strawn LLP
The presentation included a discussion of practical steps in-house lawyers can take to build, grow, and measure their corporate compliance program, and why such programs are important for companies, especially those preparing for a sale.
Sangyun Lee, 'Why Korea's Merger Control Occasionally Fails: A Public Choice ...Sangyun Lee
Presentation slides for a session held on June 4, 2024, at Kyoto University. This presentation is based on the presenter’s recent paper, coauthored with Hwang Lee, Professor, Korea University, with the same title, published in the Journal of Business Administration & Law, Volume 34, No. 2 (April 2024). The paper, written in Korean, is available at <https://shorturl.at/GCWcI>.
Guide on the use of Artificial Intelligence-based tools by lawyers and law fi...Massimo Talia
This guide aims to provide information on how lawyers will be able to use the opportunities provided by AI tools and how such tools could help the business processes of small firms. Its objective is to provide lawyers with some background to understand what they can and cannot realistically expect from these products. This guide aims to give a reference point for small law practices in the EU
against which they can evaluate those classes of AI applications that are probably the most relevant for them.
Synopsis On Annual General Meeting/Extra Ordinary General Meeting With Ordinary And Special Businesses And Ordinary And Special Resolutions with Companies (Postal Ballot) Regulations, 2018
This document briefly explains the June compliance calendar 2024 with income tax returns, PF, ESI, and important due dates, forms to be filled out, periods, and who should file them?.
What are the common challenges faced by women lawyers working in the legal pr...lawyersonia
The legal profession, which has historically been male-dominated, has experienced a significant increase in the number of women entering the field over the past few decades. Despite this progress, women lawyers continue to encounter various challenges as they strive for top positions.
Lifting the Corporate Veil. Power Point Presentationseri bangash
"Lifting the Corporate Veil" is a legal concept that refers to the judicial act of disregarding the separate legal personality of a corporation or limited liability company (LLC). Normally, a corporation is considered a legal entity separate from its shareholders or members, meaning that the personal assets of shareholders or members are protected from the liabilities of the corporation. However, there are certain situations where courts may decide to "pierce" or "lift" the corporate veil, holding shareholders or members personally liable for the debts or actions of the corporation.
Here are some common scenarios in which courts might lift the corporate veil:
Fraud or Illegality: If shareholders or members use the corporate structure to perpetrate fraud, evade legal obligations, or engage in illegal activities, courts may disregard the corporate entity and hold those individuals personally liable.
Undercapitalization: If a corporation is formed with insufficient capital to conduct its intended business and meet its foreseeable liabilities, and this lack of capitalization results in harm to creditors or other parties, courts may lift the corporate veil to hold shareholders or members liable.
Failure to Observe Corporate Formalities: Corporations and LLCs are required to observe certain formalities, such as holding regular meetings, maintaining separate financial records, and avoiding commingling of personal and corporate assets. If these formalities are not observed and the corporate structure is used as a mere façade, courts may disregard the corporate entity.
Alter Ego: If there is such a unity of interest and ownership between the corporation and its shareholders or members that the separate personalities of the corporation and the individuals no longer exist, courts may treat the corporation as the alter ego of its owners and hold them personally liable.
Group Enterprises: In some cases, where multiple corporations are closely related or form part of a single economic unit, courts may pierce the corporate veil to achieve equity, particularly if one corporation's actions harm creditors or other stakeholders and the corporate structure is being used to shield culpable parties from liability.