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Parents often struggle with determining when to talk with children about family finances, what information to share and how family wealth can be used to provide children with the best resources and opportunities without creating passive expectations that discourage financial independence. This sourcebook provides recommended resources categorized b...

Questions of what should be revealed, to whom and when all make up what Inheriting Wisdom refers to as the “Transparency Myth.” The Transparency Myth relates to the belief that transparency among families, although generally considered a good attribute, can also have less productive results if offered at inopportune times. This paper examines in-de...

Despite the best of intentions, transferring an investment property or vacation home to more than one recipient – without first considering the financial and emotional repercussions – may cause disputes, confusion or unexpected responsibilities. Answering the questions posed here can help provide valuable guidance.

When surveyed two years ago, U.S. family businesses were warily eyeing their next big bet but hesitant to place it. Now, they’re actively playing their hand. This report highlights the views of 100 owners, leaders and top executives of U.S. family businesses across a variety of industries.

Approached the right way, a prenuptial agreement can strengthen the bonds of marriage and encourage a productive, healthy discussion of finances and expectations. Many religions require a discussion of finances in premarital counseling, but talking about money is very difficult and not a topic many people are accustomed to discussing.

When the time comes for assets to be dispersed among heirs, everyday objects of sentimental value can become contested belongings. Many parents admit to worrying about the sibling rivalries this process may stir up. Yet, uncertain how to confront these issues, many tend to simply hope for the best. A better course of action: proactive discussion, a...

Parents want to do what is best for their children and teach them appropriate life lessons at appropriate developmental stages. Knowing what to teach children when is an art, something at which every caring parent wants to be successful. The skill building pyramid outlined in this paper provides a means to gain clarity as to what, specifically, par...

If a family wants to increase its economic capital, it must work on its human capital – its emotional, social and intellectual competencies. Although it may be challenging to keep economics from dominating emotional life and vice versa, sharing assets can provide an opportunity to develop family members who are financially and organizationall...

Not every family member may want to be directly involved in a family’s core operating business. However, that doesn’t mean they can’t be part of the family’s legacy. A family bank gives all family members the opportunity to be “makers” rather than simply benefiting from the hard work of those who came before them...

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.

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. The article explains how entrepreneurial stewardship can be a key to perpetuat...

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.

Purposeful travel is using travel as a shared family experience designed to strengthen the family's common purpose. There are endless opportunities for a family to engage in purposeful travel without at the same time holding a family meeting.A purposeful trip can cement bonds between family members, and contribute significantly to sustaining the fa...

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 materi...

According to Pew Research, in February 2005, just 8% of internet users, or 5% of all adults, said they used social networking sites, compared to 67% of online adults who were using social networking sites as of June 2013. Elmore DeMott knows firsthand the benefits and challenges of social media for professional and per...