Reshaping Inheritance: Women Leading the Way in Wealth Transfer

As global financial markets evolve and demographic trends shift, wealth management firms are being forced to rethink their strategies.

One of the most significant changes is the rise of high-net-worth women, a demographic not only increasing in number but reshaping inheritance patterns. Partners Wealth Group (PWG), a financial investment company managing over $4 billion in funds, is responding to these changes with a renewed focus on adaptability, strategic planning, and financial innovation.

With economic volatility and technological advancements accelerating, companies like PWG are rethinking the traditional strategic planning process. It operates under a rolling three-year strategy that allows it to frequently reassess and adjust its strategic thinking, projects, and initiatives to take advantage of new opportunities as they arise.

According to PWG’s CFO Simon Jennings, the company revisits its financial metrics every six months. “Our constant reassessment of our ‘plan on a page’ and financial scorecard allows us to recalibrate our approach based on market conditions and emerging trends. We set longer-term objectives but remain agile enough to adjust as needed.”

PWG’s Chief Operating Officer, Simon Glendenning, who oversees the company’s operation which includes technology and AI implementation, emphasised that AI-driven decision-making has become a major part of PWG’s adaptability. “When we started our last three-year cycle, AI didn’t really exist as a core tool, but now we need to look at how we incorporate the right AI tools into our business to improve operational efficiency,” he said.

“Failing to keep pace with these changes can be a costly mistake. Firms that don’t factor in rapid technological advancements or global market shifts risk being left behind. We take a proactive approach to staying ahead of the curve.”

A major shift in wealth distribution is shaping new approaches to financial planning. Women are increasingly at the forefront of wealth accumulation and management, outpacing men in higher education and business ownership.

It’s a trend that’s now impacting inheritance decisions, with families actively choosing the eldest daughter to be the executor of family wills and make decisions about wealth distribution and management, rather than defaulting to male heirs.

According to Glendenning, what’s being witnessed are more families leaving wealth to their first-born daughters instead of sons. “Historically, wealth would pass automatically to male heirs, but that’s no longer the case. Today’s wealth-holders are recognising the financial acumen of their daughters and placing their inheritance priorities accordingly.”

This generational shift requires a new approach from wealth managers. “Women tend to prioritise long-term security, sustainable investing, and legacy planning,” Glendenning says. “These investment preferences require a more nuanced and tailored approach to financial advising.”

According to Jennings, financial engagement among women has evolved. “Women are making more informed investment decisions and are more likely to consider philanthropy and sustainable finance. Our advisory models have evolved to reflect these priorities.”

The change is particularly evident in estate planning and multi-generational wealth transfers. “Clients increasingly want to ensure their wealth remains within the family while prioritising gender equity and long-term stewardship over short-term gains,” Glendenning said.

As the market continues to rapidly evolve, mergers and acquisitions (M&A) remain a critical component of PWG’s long-term strategy. However, it’s highly selective when considering acquisitions.

“The M&A market is extremely competitive, with valuations rising significantly,” Jennings said. “We don’t acquire just to grow. Every acquisition must align with our company’s culture, client philosophy, and long-term vision.”

One of the biggest risks companies face is poor post-acquisition integration. “It’s not just about closing the deal,” Glendenning says. “The post-acquisition phase is where many firms falter. Seamless technology integration, client transition, and cultural alignment are what determine success.”

PWG’s acquisition strategy focuses on strengthening its capabilities or addressing gaps rather than simply increasing market share. “We look at acquisitions as an opportunity to enhance our client offerings and bring in expertise that complements our existing strengths,” according to Jennings. “That’s why we take a measured, disciplined approach to every deal.”

The role of data in wealth management is expanding rapidly, reshaping how investment companies serve clients. Predictive analytics, AI-driven operational efficiencies, and personalised client insights are now essential tools for looking to remain competitive.

The role of CFOs has dramatically changed, and according to Jennings, it’s no longer just about presenting financial reports. “Now, we use data analytics to track client behaviours, predict investment trends, and improve operational efficiencies.”

As COO, and from an operational perspective, Glendenning highlights the competitive edge that data provides. “The companies which thrive are the ones that use data to make smarter decisions. We’ve invested significantly in reporting, analytics, and AI-driven operational tools to ensure we are ahead of market shifts.”

Glendenning also adds how data enables more personalised financial services. “With better data, we can offer more customised financial solutions, whether it’s for high-net-worth individuals looking to diversify investments or families planning intergenerational wealth transfers.”

Looking to 2025 and beyond, both Jennings and Glendenning expect continued transformation in the wealth management sector.

“The talent shortage in financial advising is one of the biggest challenges we face,” Jennings says. “There are fewer advisors entering the profession, even as demand for wealth management services grows. That’s why we’re investing in training and development, both internally and through partnerships.”

According to Glendenning, the demographic changes will continue to shape investment strategies. “With more high-net-worth women emerging as primary financial decision-makers, finance investment companies must evolve. The focus is shifting from traditional wealth accumulation to a more holistic view of financial planning, incorporating social impact, sustainability, and legacy considerations.”

Looking into the future always remains a path difficult to navigate, especially in the financial services sector. However, Jennings predicts that regulatory changes will also play a significant role. “As financial markets become more complex, governments are introducing new compliance requirements. Financial investment companies that stay ahead of regulatory changes will have a competitive advantage,” Glendenning said.

Wealth management is undergoing profound shifts, driven by changing demographics, technological advancements, and evolving client expectations. High-net-worth women are becoming central figures in financial decision-making, prompting financial investment companies like PWG to adapt their strategies accordingly.

Focusing on long-term planning, technological innovation, and a client-first approach, PWG positions itself to navigate the complexities of the modern financial landscape. Its ability to stay ahead of these trends are crucial in shaping its continued success.

Inset photo credit: Luis Ascui, MediaCulture