The new giving: use assets and don't hide them
It makes little sense to move large fortunes to supposedly safe havens for descendants. The money should be used actively to serve the interests of the next generation.
In recent days, I spoke with a successful entrepreneur who recently exited with a double-digit million windfall. He is in his forties, has two children under ten, and is pondering how to protect his wealth amidst these pleasant circumstances. The arrangement feels less suitable for him. He considers establishing a Liechtenstein foundation as a protective shield for his assets, safeguarding them against current dangers and potential departure.
The deadline looms as the liquid funds approach. He consults me, an expert and former Secretary-General of the German Association of Foundations, to evaluate the construction design recommended for him. Other entrepreneurs discuss foundation holdings and tax optimization in online forums. Tax lawyers likely contribute to the discourse, and artificial intelligence may also play a role.
Now, he joins a growing trend: since 2025, more foundations for protecting private wealth will be established in Germany than for charitable purposes.
Written by urgent.news from Handelsblatt's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
This story
This is one outlet's version. Read the fullest account.
