Resource Search

Because wealth often creates shared assets, joint decisions are required. And not infrequently, the children of wealth may not be as financially motivated as were earlier generations. In this white paper, the authors discuss strategies to establish governance practices to help families preserve both wealth and family harmony – and create a meaningful legacy.

In his latest research study, Dennis Jaffe and research contributors from Family Business Network, Family Office Exchange, and Stetson University’s Family Enterprise Center interviewed 38 families that have managed to overcome the adage “shirtsleeves to shirtsleeves in three generations.” The report discusses the generational stages in the development of the family enterprise and includes 19 vignettes of family member refle

This article provides pointers to younger generation family members about how to build the confidence necessary to make decisions involving being more independent from the family such as deciding whether it's time to move out of the family home, to go to college, or to move into a residence of their own.

This paper explores how private foundations can plan for changes in leadership in order to weather the transition as a cohesive, effective unit. Some of the risks and rewards of planning for change—or failing to do so—are discussed.

With some care and effort, your family’s story can live on and grow with each new generation. This article describes the process of creating a family archive: a treasure trove of historical information about family decendants, business accomplishements and important events. Helpful tips such as archival vendors and types of materials to use are included.

The vitality and longevity of a mature family enterprise depend on three key value drivers: the family economic engine, including both business and financial assets; the family itself, its culture and members; and “leakages” that include both cash flow management and estate planning.

Entrepreneurial stewardship is the key to perpetuating family wealth through multiple generations. Stuart Lucas and David Lansky discuss some of the paradoxes of maintaining a healthy, wealthy multigenerational family and how to address effectively these paradoxes.

Why is an American who has spent over a quarter century managing financial assets for his family cautioning you against selling your family business? The author urges you to think twice before selling your business.

Many wealthy families envision keeping a shared property in the family as a means of building family unity, harmony and legacy. A number of notable families have been successful at this, but many others find the reality creates the opposite of their intention.