Intergenerational Wealth Transfer
Intergenerational wealth transfer is the planned transition of assets, control, and decision authority across generations.
Definition
Definition Intergenerational wealth transfer is the process of moving wealth and governance from one generation to the next through estate planning, trusts, gifting strategies, and governance frameworks. For family offices, this often shapes liquidity needs, risk tolerance, and time horizon. Allocator Context Families in transition often prioritize capital preservation, liquidity planning, and reputational risk control. They may reduce exposure to high-volatility strategies and increase focus on stable cash flows, tax efficiency, and governance discipline. Decision Authority Decision authority may be shared or shifting during transitions. This can change approval timelines and risk appetite mid-process. Why It Matters for Fundraising A strategy can be great but wrong-timed. Managers who recognize generational transition signals can position appropriately—smaller tickets, lower-risk sleeves, or longer relationship-building. Key Takeaways Transitions reshape risk and liquidity priorities Governance changes can slow decisions Timing matters as much as fit Preservation often dominates during transfer periods