Moments of Impact
Smith faculty are shaping policy, business and society through influential research and public service. From AI and insurance reform to pay equity and public pensions, they’re winning top awards and earning national recognition for impact and innovation across disciplines.
From Man vs. Machine to Man + Machine: The Art and AI of Stock Analyses
An AI analyst trained to digest corporate disclosures, industry trends, and macroeconomic indicators surpasses most analysts in stock return predictions. Nevertheless, humans win “Man vs. Machine” when institutional knowledge is crucial, e.g., involving intangible assets and financial distress. AI wins when information is transparent but voluminous. Humans provide significant incremental value in “Man + Machine”, which also substantially reduces extreme errors. Analysts catch up with machines after “alternative data” become available if their employers build AI capabilities.
EPA Scrutiny and Voluntary Environmental Disclosures
Market participants have called on the SEC to address the lack of disclosures about firms’ environmental impacts, investments, and exposures. However, the frictions that obstruct the flow of environmental information are not well understood. I shed light on these frictions by examining whether scrutiny by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) restricts the firm’s voluntary environmental disclosures in earnings conference calls.
TerpTax: A Guide to NIL Taxes
NIL deals offer student-athletes new income—but also tax obligations. Smith lecturer Samuel Handwerger explains how earnings are taxed, what to watch for, and why planning, record-keeping and resources like TerpTax are key to staying financially and legally safe.
Cardello ’93 Earns Hillman Award for Decades of Impact in Accounting and Community Work
The University of Maryland’s Robert H. Smith School of Business recognized Jacqueline Cardello ’93, CPA, president and managing partner of GRF CPAs & Advisors, as the recipient of the second annual Suzanne D. Hillman Recognition and Achievement Award for Service to the Community.
When Tax Scams Hit Home: What to Know About Theft Loss Deductions
Samuel Handwerger, CPA and TerpTax faculty advisor, explains how victims of investment scams may qualify for theft loss tax deductions under IRS rules. He outlines key eligibility criteria, recent IRS guidance, and the importance of intent, documentation, and expert advice.