Over the next decade, an extraordinary volume of family wealth will pass to the next generation — and increasingly into the hands of women. Yet many female inheritors, whether wives, daughters, or wider family members, find themselves under-prepared when the moment arrives.
This is often due to a combination of factors: limited involvement in family financial decisions, a lack of visibility over wealth structures, and the emotional complexity of inheriting during periods of loss.
The good news is that most challenges can be anticipated and addressed well before the transfer event. Below are some key issues we see most frequently and the practical steps that can make the transition smoother, more confident and aligned with the inheritor’s values.
- Many women inherit wealth through trusts or family investment companies they did not set up. It is essential to get a clear understanding of the structures and map who decides what, when and how. Ask for a plain English briefing on control points, distribution policies and your rights as a beneficiary or shareholder. For trusts, encourage open family discussions ask to review letters of wishes and any protector powers; arrange an induction with trustees, and consider modernising outdated terms to reflect your needs and values.
- Matrimonial risk is real. How an inheritance is treated by divorce depends on factors like timing, the merging of assets and individual needs. Families with international assets or other cross-border touchpoints will have additional considerations. Nuptial agreements (with full disclosure and independent advice) are often key to providing certainty. Cohabitation agreements can offer similar protection for unmarried couples.
- Safeguard decision‑making. Sudden visibility or access to wealth can attract unsolicited advice or pressure women into making uninformed decisions. . Introduce light‑touch governance measures such as dual signatories for significant payments, spending thresholds, appointing an independent trustee or director where appropriate, and regular reviews. Put in place well‑drafted lasting powers of attorney early and choose attorneys who will collaborate well and provide checks and balances.
- Keep tax in view, not in charge. The goal is to stay ahead of tax pressures, not let them drive decision‑making. Refresh your Will after major life events and consider preparing a letter of wishes to guide guardians and trustees. If philanthropy is important to you, structure giving for both impact and tax efficiency, and use it as a low‑risk way to build confidence with boards and investment oversight.
- Bridging confidence gaps is essential. Confidence tends to grow quickly once women have access to the same information, context and professional networks that were often historically reserved for male family members. Create your own onboarding plan, including short teach‑ins with investment managers and trustees and a simple model showing capital, income and cash needs. If there is a family business, start with a board‑observer role, mentoring and a structured induction to build influence without undue pressure.
- Cross‑border lives need early mapping. Domicile, tax residence, forced heirship and matrimonial property regimes can significantly influence outcomes. A detailed understanding and ongoing monitoring of these issues is important. Don’t overlook digital assets — ensure someone knows how to locate, access, and manage them securely.
In summary, preparation should begin well before the inheritance event. Our role often involves coordinating estate planning, financial strategy, matrimonial protection, and fiduciary governance across a carefully selected advisory team. The aim is empowerment: equipping female inheritors with the knowledge, controls, and confidence needed to steward wealth according to their values and aspirations.
