Insights

RealClearMarkets: Mark-to-Market Taxation Will Harm Us All

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Consider it a warning sign when legislation coming off Capitol Hill includes language – even before it is enacted – indicating a federal agency will need to simplify its related rules. As former Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) Commissioners, we know too well the complexities in implementing rules to carry out legislative intent.

Fund Valuation Comes Into Focus

The COVID-19 pandemic has muddied many waters. There is more uncertainty than ever about school, work, life in general. That’s why a recent proposal from the Securities and Exchange Commission was such a breath of fresh air, even though it’s entirely unrelated to the pandemic. In fact, the agency has been working on providing clarity on fair valuation – how fund boards or their advisers value some portfolio securities – for years. The proposal brings welcome clarity to a complex area of fund governance and, particularly as a mutual fund independent director, I’m grateful for the SEC’s initiative.