When you hear “purchasing a security,” you automatically think of public offerings (this is where people purchase stocks of a publicly held company). Yes, publicly-traded stocks are securities, but they are not the only securities available. The word security has a broad meaning. It encompasses, among a host of other investment vehicles and instruments, stocks, treasury stock, notes, debentures, interests in oil and gas wells, and mineral rights, among others. But how do you know whether something is a security under the Securities Act? The answer is pretty simple, the Howey Test. The Howey test is used to determine, using three elements, whether a product meets the definition of “Security” under federal securities laws. Read on for more insight on this issue.

Starting a business can be very expensive. Most entrepreneurs will try and look for investors to fund their idea. Some might not know that an investor will never invest in a venture that does not show promise of future success. That is why you should be able to convince them that your idea will be profitable. How do you do this? For one, your idea should be unique, and you should have records of past or projected financial performance. You should also show that you can grow the business to new heights regardless of the environment the business will be operating in. This article is best suited for an entrepreneur who wants to market their idea to potential investors. Read on for more insight on what investors want to know.

The Difference Between Debt and Equity Offerings  Do you want investors? The very first thing you think of is how to get your company listed. If not this, you want to get an equity (or ownership/profit interest) investment. Why not consider getting equity or debt offerings?  Debt financing is when you raise money by borrowing…

As much as we’d all like for life to go as planned, sh*t happens. Every business should have some form of business insurance. Business insurance is designed to protect business owners from potential business liabilities.

Real estate encompasses not only one’s primary residence but other real estates such as a vacation home or rental property. The ideal form of ownership varies depending on the type of real estate you own. Below, we take a look at different types of real estate and offer advice about the best form of ownership.

Estate planning should be at the top of everyone’s to-do list. However it can be an overwhelming topic to dive into if you are unfamiliar with the language. So—to help you get situated, here are some estate planning terms you should know as you think about your estate plan.