On April 13, 2012, the US Department of the Treasury released new cost estimates for the Troubled Asset Relief Program. Looking principally at actual and projected contractual cash flows, the document concludes that: "Overall, the government is now expected to at least break even on its financial stability programs and may realize a positive return." 

Recent economic research suggests that colleges siphon off a significant portion of federal education aid rather than lowering costs to students

During two closed sessions before the luncheon, committee members discussed the latest in financial regulation issues. At a luncheon briefing following these sessions, SFRC members gave several statements and answered questions.

In a new book entitled “Financing Failure: A Century of Bailouts,” Vern McKinley provides the most detailed account yet of the government’s decision-making process during these momentous events.

In a just-published piece in Tax Notes, AEI economists Kevin Hassett and Alan Viard explain how targeted tax increases on big oil companies pose significant risks to the economy.

In a just published piece, AEI economist and tax expert Alan Viard warns that the 2011 payroll tax holiday, which shaves 2 % points off workers’ Social Security tax rates, undermines historical practices and distorts federal budget priorities as it diverts $130 billion from the general treasury into the Social Security trust fund.

The Financial Stability Oversight Council is now prepared to designate 'systematically important financial institutions', another step towards creating an unhealthy and dangerous relationship between the biggest financial firms and the federal government. Read AEI financial services expert Peter Wallison's detailed insights on how this change poses a serious threat to the US financial system.

As tax day approaches, the following American Enterprise Institute (AEI) scholars are available on a variety of tax topics. Below please find contact information and recent pieces of research.