My son, Eric Edelman, and his partners have just reached an important milestone in the redevelopment of a historic office building in downtown Stamford, Connecticut.

Beneficiary education can begin well before full financial disclosure. It might include understanding trusts and fiduciary roles, financial and governance literacy, how distribution decisions are made, and the responsibilities that come with access to wealth.

Family members encounter new developmental demands throughout the life of a family enterprise: entering ownership, joining governance, assuming leadership, becoming the client of a family office, or reconsidering one’s role as responsibilities shift to others.

Family office investment decisions often look technical on the surface. But for the family, they may also carry meaning about legacy, control, loyalty, stewardship, fairness, authority, or rising-generation voice. That's why approval doesn't guarantee ownership.

They discuss: · How a strong sense of individual identity shapes long-term family decision-making · How to balance protecting and challenging the next generation · Where advisors add the most value by supporting growth without overstepping

AI may give advisory teams time back

Founders are often told they need a plan for life after stepping back from the business.