Felix Salmon, a finance expert, discusses the value of massive tax-deductible donations, the influence and lack of accountability in philanthropy, and the adverse impact of private equity on healthcare in this thought-provoking podcast.
Donating shares instead of cash allows wealthy individuals to avoid capital gains tax while charitable foundations can sell the shares tax-free, resulting in tax-saving benefits for both parties.
Investing in the construction of factories in the US through legislation like the CHIPS Act and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law aims to boost manufacturing, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth.
Deep dives
Mega Charitable Donations and Tax Benefits
The Chronicle of Philanthropy released its annual list of the biggest charitable donations, which showcased significant contributions from well-known individuals. Warren Buffett, for example, donated $540 million worth of Berkshire stock to the Susan Thompson Buffett Foundation, which focuses on women's healthcare. Donating shares instead of cash allows donors to avoid capital gains tax, while the charitable foundation can sell the shares tax-free. Although donors may not receive significant tax deductions, they can avoid paying taxes on the wealth accumulated in the donated shares over time.
Government Spending on Factory Construction
The US government is investing in the construction of factories, driven by legislation like the CHIPS Act, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and the Inflation Reduction Act. This surge in spending, estimated at $210 billion annually, aims to boost manufacturing in the country. The hope is to create jobs and stimulate economic growth. While the impact of this investment is yet to be fully realized, there is optimism that it will lead to long-term benefits for the US economy.
Private Equity and the Negative Impact on Hospitals
A study comparing hospitals owned by private equity firms with traditional ownership found that adverse events in hospitals under private equity ownership increased significantly. These adverse events include slips and falls, infections, and central line infections. Private equity ownership often leads to cost-cutting measures, including reduced staffing levels, negatively impacting patient outcomes and safety. The study suggests that private equity's focus on profits can compromise the quality of healthcare services provided by these hospitals.
Importing Pharmaceuticals from Canada to Lower Costs
The US federal government could potentially save $98.5 billion by importing pharmaceuticals from Canada. The FDA recently granted the first approval for direct importation from Canadian wholesalers to Florida. This could pave the way for other states to follow suit and benefit from the lower drug prices available in Canada. Importing pharmaceuticals could lead to a significant reduction in healthcare costs for both states and the federal government.
This week, Felix Salmon, Emily Peck, andElizabeth Spears debate the value of massive, tax-deductible donations that spend years in administrative limbo. Also: Biden is cranking up production in American factories, and private equity may be making healthcare sick. In the Plus segment: Should we be afraid of Trump in 2024? (Spoiler: Yes.)
We’re also excited to announce Money Talks, a new interview series from Slate Money. Every second Tuesday, Felix or Emily will sit down for one-on-one chats with authors, analysts, investors, entrepreneurs, and other movers and shakers of the business world. Tune in this Tuesday, January 9 for Felix’s conversation with Marisa Meltzer, author of Glossy: Ambition, Beauty, and the Inside Story of Emily Weiss's Glossier.
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