Under the Basswood Tree Podcast

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. 

Duration: 00:17:23

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 const...

Duration: 00:00:00

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.

Duration: 00:21:31

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 t...

Duration: 00:20:12

What happens to your business when it’s time to step away—whether by choice, circumstance, or opportunity?

In this episode of Under the Basswood Tree podcast, Hazvinei Mugwagwa and Chris Klug delve into the essentials of business succession planning and why it should begin long before an exit is on the horizon. They explore how entity structure, estate planning, and tax considerations intersect to shape a smooth transition—whether you’re passing the business to family, selling to key employees, or negotiating with third-party buyers. This conversation highlights how early, integrated planning helps founders...

Duration: 00:00:00

Rudo Mugwagwa and compliance professional Abbie McMillan continue their conversation on the fast-evolving world of digital assets, exploring how emerging technologies, shifting investor trends, and new regulatory measures are redefining compliance expectations for financial institutions and investment funds.

In this episode, they explore the next frontier of compliance — the realities of AML in a world where crypto adoption and stablecoins are no longer speculative, but part of the financial system. The conversation dives into how this shift is reshaping compliance expectations for fund managers, institutions, and regulators, as new tools race to catch up to...

Duration: 00:13:45

AI is reshaping the way financial institutions approach anti-money laundering (AML) compliance — but with every opportunity comes new risks. 

In this episode, Rudo Mugwagwa and compliance professional Abbie McMillan dive into how AI is being applied in the financial sector, from investment funds to digital asset platforms. They examine how emerging technologies are reshaping compliance programs, reveal where AI delivers real value, and explain why overreliance on it could expose institutions to significant risk.

Whether you’re a fund manager, advisor, or business leader, this episode provides timely insights to he...

Duration: 00:30:16

Can the U.S. effectively balance innovation with investor protection in crypto?

Jephte Lanthia and Rudo Mugwagwa explore the GENIUS Act, shifting SEC priorities, and the roles of key agencies such as the SEC and CFTC in shaping crypto regulation. They break down what the new rules mean for businesses, investors, and fintech industry.

This episode is a must-listen for investment managers, advisors, fund administrators, business leaders, and investors looking to navigate today’s rapidly evolving digital asset landscape.

Disclaimer: This podcast is for in...

Duration: 00:39:55

From expanded deductions and extended rate cuts to new credits and planning strategies, Gina Lee, Renee Tiun, and Chris Klug walk us through what individuals and families need to know under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA).

This episode walks us through major updates including:

Permanent individual income tax rate cuts and marriage penalty reliefEnhanced standard deductions and planning strategies for itemized deductionsChanges to the child tax credit, dependent care credit, adoption credit, and 529 plansNew provisions like the “Trump Account,” car loan interest deduction, and charitable giving updatesAMT adjustments, esta...

Duration: 00:00:00

In this episode, Chris Klug and Gina Lee break down how the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) introduces significant changes for U.S. businesses. From expanded business tax deductions to updated compliance rules, they discuss what companies need to know to stay ahead. Tune in for insights on business tax planning under the OBBBA.

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 Couns...

Duration: 00:00:00

Hazvinei Mugwagwa takes a closer look at the critical role of preparation and planning in a successful M&A transaction. Haz highlights why assembling the right advisors—from lawyers to accountants to bankers—can make or break a deal. From letters of intent to confidentiality agreements, this episode explores how early decisions shape the success or failure of the deal.

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 Bas...

Duration: 10:32:00

Gina Lee and Christopher Klug break down the U.S. Exit Tax and what it means for citizens and long-term green card holders considering expatriation. They walk through the key tests that determine “covered expatriate” status, the mechanics of the mark-to-market regime, and strategies for mitigating unintended tax consequences. Whether you're planning your exit or advising someone who is, this episode offers essential insights on managing high-stakes tax decisions with long-term implications.

Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Listening to this podcast does not create an attorney...

Duration: 00:22:30

On April 21, 2025, Paul S. Atkins was sworn into office as the 34th Chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission. Basswood Counsel attorneys Jephte Lanthia and Haz Mugwagwa sat down to discuss the current regulatory landscape for market participants, including investors, the crypto industry, the IPO market, and private funds, and what to expect under the Atkins chairmanship.

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 Counse...

Duration: 00:33:55

Good governance is about being intentional in establishing an effective organization, pulling together various components and resources to complete tasks and monitoring their progress to make adjustments. Implementing or adopting AI is no different from any other strategic undertaking, so it should be on the Board’s agenda.

Tune in to the premiere episode of Under the Basswood Tree Podcast.

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...

Duration: 00:49:51