Navigating the agent’s power to gift under power of attorney (POA)
A power of attorney (“POA”) is a document that appoints another — known as the “attorney-in-fact” or “agent” — to act in the principal’s place for business, financial, legal, or other purposes, often when the principal cannot do so on his or her own behalf. There are various types of POAs, and the terms and […]
Should I bank online or in person?
The advancement of technology has changed the way consumers buy, sell and do most things — including how they bank. According to a GOBankingRates survey completed last year, 49 percent of respondents prefer in-person banking, while 51 percent favor a digital method (online or mobile). While some consumers do prefer one banking[...]
It’s time for Virginia business leaders to lead on public health
Good news: We’re well into the New Year in the Old Dominion State, and Virginians are getting healthier. According to a recent United Health Foundation report, Virginia now ranks as the 15th-healthiest state in America — up from 20th last year. Dig into the research, and there is plenty to celebrate. For example, Virginia is known for […]
The recession that wasn’t
What if they held a recession and no one showed up? Last summer, economic experts began ringing warning bells of an impending downturn, as evidenced by an inverted yield curve of short-term Treasury bills vs. long-term Treasury notes. And when one combined the inverted yield rate, said to be perhaps the most accurate predictor o[...]
Realizing Dreams and Filling Jobs
This session, General Assembly members are considering a proposal that would help close the commonwealth’s skills gap by providing workforce scholarships to individuals without access to the community college education required to gain these skills. This proposal is a win-win-win: assisting students, growing businesses and dev[...]
Do Virginians have more confidence in the housing market in 2020?
Are you thinking about making a move this year? Whether buying a first home, upgrading or downsizing, Virginians are entering 2020 with a positive outlook on the real estate market. According to a December 2019 real estate report by Roanoke College, almost 40% more respondents are positive about markets today compared to the same time […]
Advice for Dems from “America’s Dad”
U.S. Sen. Tim Kaine has “a little window” into what it looks like when the balance of power shifts in a Virginia legislative body. He was Virginia’s governor in 2007 when Democrats took control of the state Senate. That wasn’t nearly as seismic a change as Virginians will witness this General Assembly session when Democr[...]
People to meet
Years ago, a newspaper publisher friend of mine shared a pretty simple strategy: “We try to put 1,000 names of local people and companies in the paper every week.” This is a seemingly simple, but profoundly effective idea that intentionally engages readers with content about their friends, neighbors and co-workers. It is a l[...]
A tale of two economies
Inside View: Nowhere are millennials needed more than in small-town America.
Should you spend money now or save?
Consider these three financial tips when considering purchases — especially in times of impending economic uncertainty.
Energy supply is essential to port success
The Atlantic Coast Pipeline is necessary to provide a reliable, affordable supply of natural gas to power the Port of Virginia and keep pace with projected growth.