What this is: What was on your reading list this year? If you’re anything like us then you were constantly on the hunt for thought leadership and hard-hitting news. In 2024, we tackled some of the most important subject matter in the industry, from UCC financing statements to the highly anticipated Corporate Transparency Act (CTA).
What this means: Before we all dive into our resolutions for 2025, let’s rewind back to the highlights of 2024. These top 10 articles didn’t just make the cut... they redefined what it means to stay ahead in the compliance world. Ready to relive the hits?
10. CTA Update: FinCEN Issues New FAQs Regarding BOI Reporting Obligations for Dissolved Entities
The CTA was top of mind for a lot of businesses this year, and coming in at #10 on our list is this CTA update, which answers questions like, “Is there a difference between dissolution vs. cease to exist for non-exempt reporting companies that dissolved prior to January 1, 2024?” Many readers wanted to know.
9. Understanding UCC Fixture Filings and Their Impact on Business Transactions
So, you want to sell your office building, but you don’t want them taking the lights? UCC fixture filings are essential for lenders to secure their interests in goods that will be attached to real property (fixtures). Read this article to find out more.
8. The Benefits of Choosing English Law in Cross-Border Financial Transactions
Global reach, a great deference to freedom of contract and party autonomy are just 3 reasons to consider choosing English law in cross-border business transactions. Want even more reasons? Check out our 8th most-read article of 2024.
7. Why Can't I Get a Delaware Certificate of Good Standing on a Rush Basis?
We were hoping the answer to this would be “because Delaware says so,” but interestingly, there are issues like multiple filings pending or missing or late annual reports... and don’t even get us started on franchise tax errors. But there are some tips and tricks to getting your Certificate of Good Standing expedited. You’ll have to read the article to find out how.
6. Latest Updates: A Federal Court Declares the CTA Unconstitutional
The Corporate Transparency Act has been on many a mind since it took effect in January of this year. But then... somebody filed a lawsuit and suddenly the whole legislation was called into question. Our article on the subject goes into the plaintiffs in the case, the reasoning behind the lawsuit and the statements from both parties. Read more and stay abreast of all your CTA needs on our CTA resources page here.
5. The Fun of Doing Business Under a Business Alias or Assumed Name
While there are certainly many good reasons to use an alias, it is also crucial that companies comply with assumed name laws, as not doing so could result in civil or criminal penalties. You can find out more in our 5th most popular blog of 2024.
4. The CTA’s Large Operating Company Exemption: Requirements and Considerations
Another CTA article in 4th place for most-read blogs of the year? Of course. The CTA includes 23 exemptions to its Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) reporting requirements. In this article, we explore the details of the “Large Operating Company” exemption. Keep calm and read on!
3. What a Certificate of Good Standing Does and Does Not Tell You
There are things a Certificate of Good Standing will and won’t tell you. On the will-tell-you side, it confirms your entity has met state requirements, such as paying fees and submitting necessary filings. On the won’t-tell-you side, it won’t disclose whether your business has unresolved legal disputes or owes taxes. Read more in our article, where we go deeper and discuss long-form and short-form Certificates of Good Standing.
2. Update: New FinCEN Guidance on EINs, Disregarded Entities and BOI Reporting Under the CTA
Coming in at #2 is yet another CTA update. FinCEN has clarified regulations under the CTA, specifying whether disregarded entities without their own tax identification numbers (TINs) can use their owner’s TIN for BOI reports or must obtain their own TIN. Read the article here.
1. UCC Financing Statements: 11 Mistakes to Avoid
Navigating UCC financing statements can sometimes feel like eating ice cream in the sun; messy, is the point we’re making. Our top article points out the common pitfalls that can trip up even the most seasoned professionals, from minor typos to overlooking critical deadlines.
And there you have it, the best of 2024. At Cogency Global, we’re always grateful for the moments when our content made a difference to you. This year, your clicks, comments and questions told a story of engagement and growth. Here’s to 2025 being filled with more of the same!
This article is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered, or relied upon, as legal advice.
