Episodes

  • FBAR and FATCA - Filing Pitfalls, Thresholds, and Practical Tips

    FBAR and FATCA - Filing Pitfalls, Thresholds, and Practical Tips
    Feb 16 2026
    FBAR and FATCA compliance doesn’t start at the filing deadline, it starts with early planning. In Part 2 of our FBAR and FATCA series, Rudo Mugwagwa and Gina Lee move from understanding the rules to addressing where filings most often break down and how to avoid those issues. For U.S. persons with foreign accounts, global families, financial institutions, and compliance teams, this episode highlights filing thresholds, documentation practices, certifications, and why proactive coordination is critical to avoiding penalties, delays, and unnecessary follow-up during the reporting cycle. Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Listening to this podcast does not create an attorney–client relationship. For advice on your specific situation, please reach out to the Basswood Counsel team or consult a qualified attorney.
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    9 mins
  • FBAR and FATCA Explained – Understanding the Differences and Overlap

    FBAR and FATCA Explained – Understanding the Differences and Overlap
    Feb 9 2026
    In this episode of the Under the Basswood Tree podcast, Basswood Counsel attorneys Rudo Mugwagwa and Gina Lee explain two U.S. cross-border reporting regimes that are often confused: FBAR and FATCA. The discussion breaks down what each regime is designed to do, how they differ, where they overlap, and why many taxpayers and institutions struggle to understand how the rules fit together. The episode also clarifies who is required to file, what types of accounts and assets are reportable, and why FBAR and FATCA compliance extends beyond simply filing a U.S. tax return. This is Part 1 of a two-part series focused on providing clarity around FBAR and FATCA for U.S. persons with foreign accounts, global families, business owners, and financial institutions navigating cross-border reporting obligations. Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Listening to this podcast does not create an attorney–client relationship. For advice on your specific situation, please reach out to the Basswood Counsel team or consult a qualified attorney.
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    23 mins
  • Coming to America (Part 2): Key U.S. Tax Considerations

    Coming to America (Part 2): Key U.S. Tax Considerations
    Feb 2 2026
    In this episode of the Under the Basswood Tree podcast, Chris Klug and Gina Lee continue the Coming to America series with a focused look at the U.S. tax considerations non-U.S. businesses face once operations begin. They walk through key issues to evaluate- from federal and state incentives to transfer pricing, treaty benefits, real estate considerations, and exit planning. The conversation highlights why viewing U.S. expansion through a global lens and planning early can help avoid costly missteps while positioning the business for long-term, sustainable growth. Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Listening to this podcast does not create an attorney–client relationship. For advice on your specific situation, please reach out to the Basswood Counsel team or consult a qualified attorney.
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    29 mins
  • What Really Happens in an M&A Deal?

    What Really Happens in an M&A Deal?
    Jan 26 2026

    Hazvinei Mugwagwa continues the Talking M&A series with a practical walkthrough of the M&A transaction process—from early discovery and letters of intent to due diligence, closing, and post-transaction integration.

    Designed for founders, business owners, and executives, this conversation demystifies what really happens behind the scenes and why early planning matters. Hazvinei explores common pitfalls around NDAs, term sheets, due diligence readiness, transaction structures, and post-closing obligations, while highlighting the emotional and operational realities that often catch sellers off guard.

    Disclaimer:

    This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Listening to this podcast does not create an attorney–client relationship. For advice on your specific situation, please reach out to the Basswood Counsel team or consult a qualified attorney.
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    19 mins
  • Coming to America: Structuring Your U.S. Expansion

    Coming to America: Structuring Your U.S. Expansion
    Dec 15 2025
    In this episode of the Under the Basswood Tree podcast, Chris Klug and Gina Lee explore what it really means for non-U.S. companies to “come to America.” They break down U.S. tax concepts, entity structuring considerations, and common pitfalls that can arise without thoughtful planning. This episode provides a clear, strategic starting point for foreign businesses entering the U.S. market.
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    17 mins
  • A Year of Change: Navigating New Rules in Securities, Crypto, and Financial Markets

    A Year of Change: Navigating New Rules in Securities, Crypto, and Financial Markets
    Dec 1 2025
    In this episode of the Under the Basswood Tree podcast, Hazvinei Mugwagwa and Jephte Lanthia reflect on a year marked by significant regulatory change across securities, fintech, and digital assets. They discuss how the U.S. has moved toward a more market-friendly, clarity-driven approach — and what that means for businesses planning ahead. From stablecoin frameworks to the future of tokenization, AI-driven lending risks, and the realities facing minority investors, this conversation offers grounded guidance to help organizations navigate a fast-moving environment with confidence. Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Listening to this podcast does not create an attorney–client relationship. For advice on your specific situation, please reach out to the Basswood Counsel team or consult a qualified attorney.
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    35 mins
  • From Tax Cuts to New Opportunities: Key Highlights of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act

    From Tax Cuts to New Opportunities: Key Highlights of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act
    Nov 17 2025
    In this special episode of the Under the Basswood Tree Podcast, recorded during Basswood Counsel’s First Anniversary Event on October 28th, Chris Klug and Gina Lee break down the most significant tax changes introduced under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act—and what these updates mean for individuals, families, and businesses. From expanded deductions and enhanced credits to major improvements in pass-through benefits, R&D expensing, Opportunity Zones, and QSBS, they translate complex reforms into clear, practical insights. Their conversation highlights where new opportunities open up and where thoughtful planning matters most. Tune in for a strategic, forward-looking overview of tax changes shaping 2025 and the years ahead.
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    22 mins
  • One Year Under the Basswood Tree: Reflecting on Partnership, Purpose, and Growth

    One Year Under the Basswood Tree: Reflecting on Partnership, Purpose, and Growth
    Nov 10 2025
    In this special first-anniversary episode of the Under the Basswood Tree podcast, Basswood Counsel co-founders Meg Charles and Chris Klug reflect on the firm’s founding story and the values that continue to shape its growth. From redefining what true legal partnership means to practicing law with authenticity, care, and soul, they share how Basswood was built on collaboration, trust, and purpose. The conversation also highlights how the Basswood ethos—navigating legal complexities with care—guides every client relationship and decision. Tune in as we celebrate one year of meaningful dialogue, connection, and progress under the Basswood Tree.
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    20 mins