At Ferguson Wellman, the alternative assets desk (my primary role) tends to be where the uncommon client questions land. Alternative assets, in our world, are basically anything that is not a publicly traded stock or bond, and our clients come to us with terrific questions that often sit in this "other" bucket.

Every year, we get questions about how to reduce taxes by moving out of state. Taxes in Oregon have been some of the highest in the country for many years, and Washington is quickly following suit.

The holiday season is in full swing, and there’s a certain energy in the air that feels unmistakable. Calendars fill with gatherings, homes glow a little brighter and routines soften as people pause to reflect on the year behind them. The gift lists and travel plans often involve higher spending and reveal deeper feelings among consumers.