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The Evolution of Giving: 5 Trends Reshaping High-Net-Worth Philanthropy Thumbnail

The Evolution of Giving: 5 Trends Reshaping High-Net-Worth Philanthropy

By Sarah Carlson, CFP®, CLU®, ChFC®

Like other sectors, philanthropy experiences trends that shape giving. These trends positively impact broader societal goals that many high-net-worth (HNW) philanthropists strive toward. Here are five trends reshaping giving for HNW philanthropists.

Impact giving

One trend in giving is the shift toward impact investing, which merges financial returns with social or environmental rewards. Impact investing is a strategy HNW individuals use to finance projects that generate positive social and environmental impact alongside financial returns. This type of giving encourages a more intentional approach to philanthropy where both profit and purpose align.

Collaboration

Another compelling trend is the strategic collaboration between philanthropists and non-profit organizations who share the same vision. Traditionally, HNW donors provided funds to non-profits, utilizing them as they saw fit. Today, however, HNW philanthropists prefer to be actively involved in determining the causes they support and how their donations are used. The goal here is to ensure that the contributions make a real difference. This form of collaborative philanthropy allows the donors to work together in partnership, thus cultivating a shared vision for change.

Data-driven giving decisions 

Philanthropic ventures are now becoming increasingly data-driven. AI advancements have allowed philanthropists to utilize data to inform their decisions. Data analytics, trends, and past performance can be studied to make more informed and appropriate decisions about where to steer donations. AI can enable HNW philanthropists to assess the impact of their past giving and revise their strategies accordingly to yield more impactful social returns.

Philanthrocapitalism

There is a growing trend of HNW individuals blurring the lines between their business and philanthropic endeavors. This trend, philanthrocapitalism, seeks to apply business practices and principles in philanthropy to achieve higher impact levels. Through this approach, HNW donors leverage their business insight and resources to scale philanthropic efforts, facilitate sustainable change, and work toward efficiently using financial resources.

Next-generation philanthropy

Next-generation (next-gen) philanthropy is a significant trend reshaping the philanthropy landscape. As wealth transfers from generation to generation, a new generation of HNW individuals is stepping into philanthropy with a refreshed perspective and approach. 

These younger philanthropists are often more global in their outlook, socially conscious, and select causes that align with their values. They also seek to establish an individual philanthropic identity and respond to real-world needs now. 

In addition, next-gen philanthropists are more likely to utilize technology and innovation to drive change, are tuned in to the news and the internet, and respond more quickly and continuously to their causes than older-generation philanthropists.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these trends are reshaping HNW philanthropy, initiating shifts in giving, and fostering a more strategic, collaborative, and impactful approach to philanthropic endeavors. The evolution of these trends will undoubtedly continue to shape the future of HNW philanthropy, creating new opportunities for making a significant difference in society.

HNW individuals seeking to use their wealth to make a difference must work with financial, legal, and tax professionals to design a giving strategy that aligns with their values and current regulations as they pertain to philanthropy.

 

 

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Important Disclosures:
This material is for general information only and is not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.
Investing involves risks including possible loss of principal.
Past performance is no guarantee of future results. 
All information is believed to be from reliable sources; however, LPL Financial makes no representation as to its completeness or accuracy.
This article was prepared by Fresh Finance.
LPL Tracking # 624105
Sources:
https://johnsoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/11-Trends-for-2024-Report.pdf
https://www.urban.org/sites/default/files/publication/104505/impact-investing-and-critiques-of-philanthrocapitalism.pdf