Greetings!

This issue of Integra’s Global Update is as diverse as our membership. We tackle the Cannabis industry and how it is taxed, we learn more about business opportunities in Mauritius, we get a better feel for the USA’s Affordable Care Act and an insight into an electronic invoice pilot program in Brazil, Argentina and Mexico.

 Integra finishes the year strong. We’ve had great conferences in Houston, Brussels, Dublin and Santiago de Chile; we have added great new member firms; we’ve learned a lot from the A&A newsletter, Inside Integra and the Global update; our ProYou group has made inroads into firm succession; and most importantly we have met and shared insights with each other all while renewing friendships or making new ones.

I have had the opportunity to visit many firms and learn how they operate and the commonalities and differences they each have. Interestingly enough, the firms had much more in common than you might think. Some of the common themes include finding good talent to hire, how to add new partners and succession planning, economic and political changes that affect business, taxation laws and making life/work balance actually work. I want to thank all of the firms that hosted me this year. Your graciousness and attention are very much appreciated. I enjoyed every minute of my trips.

Unfortunately, we have also seen much war and terrorism in some countries this past year. Luckily our Integra family is intact. Please know that Integra will be of service to you during good and bad times. Our commitment to you is to help you grow your international business. In order for you to do that, you need the support of fellow members – please remember to respond quickly to inquiries when you receive them – it may be a great piece of business or it may simply be another member looking for moral support. Both are equally important.

Wishing you much peace and joy this Holiday Season and a very Happy New Year.

Warmest regards,