The Great Wealth Transfer is happening, with the UK expected to see a significant shift in assets passed down to younger generations over the next 30 years.
This is perhaps why more people are showing an interest in intergenerational financial planning.
A survey6 of financial advisers found that 80% of clients are now concerned about intergenerational planning, compared with 75% in 2022. Clients seem to be recognising this area as an increasing priority, with 39% seeing it as ‘highly important,’ up from 34% three years ago.
This growing focus is likely due to changes announced in last year’s Autumn Budget, which have prompted more advisers to use trusts when IHT planning. Also, record IHT receipts have probably encouraged people to take action to minimise their estate’s tax liabilities.
Who’s getting advice?
Intergenerational planning advice is more in demand, with 68% of clients discussing IHT with their adviser. However, only 47% of advised clients actually have solutions in place to reduce the IHT on
their estate. Despite this advice-action gap, there’s a near-universal agreement that intergenerational planning matters, with 98% of advisers saying it is important to their clients.
The gender gap
Research7 suggests that women are at the centre of the Great Wealth Transfer as they are 45% more likely to have inherited assets than men. This puts them on track to control 60% of UK private wealth by the end of 20258. Despite inheriting more, women do not hold as many long-term income generating assets. This could be because 69% of women said they haven’t received financial advice before.
It’s time to start a conversation about intergenerational planning.
Preparation is essential to ensure wealth is passed smoothly and efficiently across the generations.
6HSBC Life (UK), 2025, 7Unbiased, 2025, 8CEBR, 2025
