A Strategic Approach to Estate DesignA Strategic Approach to Estate Design

Some families do well in generational transitions, but many fail—some miserably. Those that thrive are rare, but not as rare as some think. These families tend to be strong, resilient and deliberate. But most importantly, they’re paying attention to the real threats to wealth. 

These families understand that successfully navigating wealth is a bit like flying a jetliner—two, well-matched wings are required. One strong and one weak wing won’t do. Failure of either wing is catastrophic. In many families that flounder, the “planning wing” has received disproportionate attention—trusts are established, advisors are in place, tax strategies are adopted and investment approaches are calibrated. The planning is superb. But, these complex structu...