Episodes

  • 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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    Less than 1 minute
  • 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
  • Succession Planning: Preparing Your Business for What’s Next

    Succession Planning: Preparing Your Business for What’s Next
    Oct 27 2025
    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 and business owners preserve both value and legacy. Listen now and start planning your business’s next chapter 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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    Less than 1 minute
  • The AI + AML Dilemma: What Crypto Adoption Really Means for Compliance

    The AI + AML Dilemma: What Crypto Adoption Really Means for Compliance
    Oct 6 2025
    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. They share valuable insights on how AI and machine learning are enhancing transaction monitoring, how the crypto investor landscape is changing, and how the U.S. and other jurisdictions are moving to regulate digital assets such as stablecoins. This episode also examines the ongoing fight against financial crime in the crypto space — and what it means for fund managers, advisors, business leaders, and financial institutions navigating this complex and rapidly developing environment.
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    14 mins
  • The AI Dilemma in AML: Game-Changer or a Governance Minefield?

    The AI Dilemma in AML: Game-Changer or a Governance Minefield?
    Sep 29 2025
    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 help financial institutions stay alert to the risks — and prepared to seize the opportunities — that AI brings to AML compliance.
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    30 mins
  • Playing Catch-up: America's Regulatory Sprint for Crypto Leadership

    Playing Catch-up: America's Regulatory Sprint for Crypto Leadership
    Sep 22 2025
    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 startups. This episode is a must-listen for business leaders and investors navigating today’s evolving digital asset landscape. 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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    40 mins