A recent article by Wayne Tompkins in the Daily Business Review states that ‘South Florida’s dependence on real estate is keeping both its banks and its economy bogged down even as the banking industry nationwide is showing measurable signs of recovery.’
Understanding the Different Types of Florida “Homestead” Exemptions
Given the current income and estate tax environment in other states, relocations to Florida are increasing significantly these days thanks to its tax-friendly reputation. Many view Florida as a “debtor-friendly” state, but it’s not as easy as it seems as the devil can be in the details!
Important New Chinese Drywall Decision Impacts the Liability of Homebuilders and Insurers
Fifteenth Circuit Court Judge Glenn D. Kelley issued a decision on November 5 which limits the liability of the home builders who installed the problematic drywall, commonly known as Chinese Drywall.
Historic Deal Means Better Everglades Restoration
After nearly three years of economic hurdles and legal negotiating, the United States Sugar Corporation (U.S. Sugar) closed on the sale of 26,791 acres to the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) for $197, 398, 372.08.
Florida’s Election System Has Come A Long Way, Almost Full Circle
On Tuesday, Floridians took to the polls to elect a new U.S. Senator, Governor, Attorney General and numerous local representatives. At the end of the day as the votes were tallied, the scene unfolded much differently than one we experienced ten years ago.
H. Wayne Huizenga—Changing the Face of South Florida
On Friday, October 29th, the City of Fort Lauderdale celebrated their 100th birthday with an event honoring H. Wayne Huizenga as Man of the Centennial. As one of the most influential business leaders of our generation, and as a man who has helped shape the City of Fort Lauderdale and South Florida in many ways, we can think of no one more deserving of this recognition.
Build It and They Will Come—Bioscience in Florida is Prospering
No statement describes the theme of Florida’s bioscience vision better than “Build it, and they will come.” Over the past decade, officials from the state have worked alongside local community and business leaders to relocate international bioscience centers to Florida and provide support for home grown life science facilities.
Water Quality in Florida – An Insurmountable Obstacle or A Hidden Opportunity?
Water Quality in Florida has become a national focus. In November, the federal government proposes to adopt water quality rules for Florida that are the first of their kind in the nation. These rules, called “numeric nutrient criteria” will regulate nutrients in Florida’s waters to new and more stringent levels.
The Burger King Buyout – How Will It Impact South Florida?
Burger King, the second largest operator of fast food hamburger restaurants in the world, was recently sold to a private equity firm for approximately $3.3 billion. While this deal is still subject to some approvals and contingencies, observers believe that it will be consummated during the fourth quarter of this year.
U.S. Financial Institutions Corresponding with Foreign Banks May Be Under Scrutiny Under New Regulation
U.S. financial institutions that maintain correspondent accounts of foreign banks may be soon be required by the U.S. government to certify to the Secretary of the Treasury that their foreign bank customers are not facilitating Iran’s nuclear weapon proliferation program or Iranian activities linked to terrorism. U.S. financial institutions might even be required to “audit” foreign bank customers in order to be able to make such certification.
