This opening session will reflect on key global developments over the past year and consider their impact on private clients across jurisdictions. With perspectives from both sides of the Atlantic, the discussion will explore how ongoing geopolitical uncertainty and instability are shaping client concerns. Looking ahead, the panel will also examine the risks, challenges and potential legal developments that may define the year to come.

Governments worldwide are responding to fiscal pressures in contrasting ways. While some jurisdictions are increasing taxes on wealth, inheritance, and high income, others are enhancing preferential regimes to attract globally mobile UHNW individuals. This session will examine how advisors can guide clients through a landscape of diverging policies and competing approaches to revenue generation.

This session will explore the complexities of international succession planning between common and civil law jurisdictions. Topics will include real estate considerations, choice of law and the exclusion of “referral” under Article 34 of EU Regulation 650/2012, and the role of probate in common law systems. The discussion will also incorporate generational wealth transfer and recent developments in this area.

Effective governance is central to the long-term success of trusts and foundations. This session will explore key considerations in selecting trustees and foundation board members, including fiduciary standards, managing conflicts of interest, and best practices in governance. The panel will also discuss succession planning, incapacity planning, and mechanisms for removal when relationships break down.

Family disputes in the private wealth context are rarely driven by legal issues alone. This interactive session will explore the underlying causes of conflict - from perceived favouritism and unequal treatment to dashed expectations, complex family dynamics, generational differences, and communication breakdowns. From a private wealth litigator’s perspective, the panel will also discuss practical ways advisers can help de-escalate tensions, including managing client expectations, encouraging clearer communication, and addressing sensitive issues in a proportionate and constructive way.

This breakout will examine the role of letters of wishes in trustee decision-making, including when they should be followed and the circumstances in which they may be set aside.

Philanthropy is becoming a central pillar of UHNW family governance, offering a practical way to educate heirs, foster stewardship, and shape shared values. This session will explore how charitable vehicles such as foundations, donor‑advised funds, and purpose‑driven trusts can be integrated into succession planning, next‑gen engagement, and cross‑border planning. We will discuss structuring options, tax‑efficient giving, and how philanthropy can balance family dynamics while supporting long‑term governance and purpose-led planning.

As the private wealth landscape continues to evolve, advisers must adapt their approaches to meet the needs of the next generation of clients. This closing session will bring together key themes from across the conference and open the floor for a forward-looking discussion on emerging challenges, new ideas, and how advisers can best prepare for the future.