Up to 70% of affluent families see their fortunes disappear by the second generation, and a staggering 90% watch it vanish by the third. Preserving wealth requires a lot more than knowledge. It requires hard work, discipline, sacrifice, and equally valuable – family communication.
Wealth is more than just money in the bank—it represents the culmination of hard work, smart decisions, and years, if not generations, of perseverance. However, with great wealth comes great responsibility, especially when it comes to preserving it for future generations.
At NJM Wealth Preservation Strategies, one of our clients’ biggest challenges is initiating conversations about wealth and its future management with family members.
“Talking about money, especially for those with significant resources, can be uncomfortable. But not as uncomfortable as explaining to your loved ones you haven’t prepared for their financial future.” - Nic J. McLeod.
Let's dive into the art of family wealth preservation and explore how to navigate these difficult, yet crucial dialogues.
It's tempting to avoid discussions about family wealth, especially when you anticipate differing views or potential conflicts. However, the cost of avoiding this topic often outweighs the short-term discomfort.
Sustaining substantial wealth takes financial savvy – something not all wealthy parents pass along to their children. It’s reported that 64% of parents admit they’ve talked little very little (or not at all) about their finances to their family members. Without proper education, the inheritance may be spent quickly without any means of recovery.
Comprehensive and open communication can help:
If you’ve been wondering the best way to go about starting family wealth conversations, here are some best practices.
Talking about money in the family can be tricky. It's a sensitive topic that can lead to complexities. But starting these discussions early can help ease the stresses that may come later in life. Good communication helps prepare the family for what's ahead, minimizes disagreements, and helps make passing on wealth easier.
You don't need to wait for a family gathering to broach the subject. In fact, integrating discussions about money and wealth into regular conversations can make it a less taboo topic. Start with simple concepts like budgeting or investing basics and gradually transition into deeper discussions about inheritance, trusts, and wealth distribution.
Handing over the reins of family wealth is not just a transaction—it's a transference of responsibility. Before entrusting younger generations with this task, ensure they're well-equipped to handle it. This means:
Clearly define roles and responsibilities when it comes to managing family wealth. This can include:
Having these established roles helps to ensure that decisions are made efficiently and effectively. This can also help to prevent misunderstandings and conflicts, as it allows for more accountability.
.png)
If you can’t decide who to delegate your financial responsibility to, consider getting an independent trustee.
Even with good communication and decision-making, families may face issues they can't solve alone. A neutral party can make decisions based on what’s fair without being swayed by emotions. This also helps to avoid the potential perceptions of favoritism or conflicts of interest.
Additionally, impartial trustees often have the experience and resources to navigate financial complexities, helping to reduce the risk of errors or oversights. Trusts also involve legal obligations and responsibilities. Impartial trustees are more likely to adhere to these obligations strictly.
Transparency is the foundation of trust. Avoid keeping secrets about the family's financial standing, as it can lead to misunderstandings, misguided expectations, and even resentment. It’s best to present a transparent picture of what’s happening in your financial house. Ensure everyone in the family has a basic understanding of:
Money isn't just about numbers—it's deeply emotional. Recognize and address the emotional aspects intertwined with family wealth, such as:
Understanding these emotions can foster a supportive environment where family members feel understood and valued.
Like choosing a third-party trustee, it can help to have a professional, unbiased perspective when managing and preserving your family’s wealth. Reputable wealth preservation firms can provide objective advice free from any family biases.
Wealth Preservation Managers can offer solutions and strategies tailor-made for you and your family’s needs. They can act as a mediator in the case of disagreements.
Families change, economies fluctuate, and what worked a decade ago might not be optimal today. Revisit your wealth preservation strategies regularly, adapting to new family dynamics, financial landscapes, and global contexts.
The art of family wealth preservation isn't merely about numbers—it's about fostering understanding, building trust, and ensuring a legacy lives on. It’s also about making informed decisions today to create a prosperous tomorrow.
By engaging in these conversations, you can help empower your family with the knowledge and tools to navigate the complexities of wealth wisely.
At NJM Wealth Preservation Strategies, we are dedicated to guiding families through this journey, ensuring wealth is preserved and thrives through the generations to come. So, as you approach those monetary family conversations, remember that you're not just discussing assets—you're crafting a legacy.
Ready to get started? Contact us here today to set up your complimentary consultation.