Beneath the Canopy - June 2025

Robert Carson
Jun 1
3 min read

Updated: Sep 2

In this month's edition of "Beneath the Canopy"

"Money Doesn't Blow Up Families; Egos Do"

Robert Carson was the featured guest on the podcast "Exchanges with Evan Lucas" in May. They discussed a range of topics, including the shift of Australian financial advice toward a more holistic, family-centric approach.

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Heirs, Egos and Exit Plans - Turning Family Business into a Battleground

Let’s face it: discussing money with family can feel like navigating a minefield. If you are part of a family business, avoiding these conversations is simply not an option. It is about more than who receives what share, or who has a seat at the head of the table. It’s crucial to ensure both the business and the family remain strong when the dust settles.

The Challenge of Family Wealth

Building a family business is a remarkable achievement. However, with this success often comes tension, particularly when it comes to money. It's essential to establish open lines of communication. Transparency about financial matters is key to preventing misunderstandings that could lead to conflict.

The Importance of Planning

Effective planning is another aspect that shouldn't be overlooked. Families must create strategies for the transfer of wealth and business ownership. This involves not only legal considerations but also emotional aspects. A robust plan can alleviate uncertainty and set the course for future generations.

Imagine a family legacy extending not just decades but a full century into the future. This vision represents the promise—and the challenge—of 100-year wealth planning. It encourages families to think beyond immediate inheritances or business deals. Instead, it suggests planting the seeds for a flourishing family tree that stands strong for generations.

Building for the Future

Creating a sustainable legacy requires careful thought. Families should consider long-term investment strategies that focus on growth and stability. Additionally, fostering a culture of financial literacy helps ensure that future generations can effectively manage the wealth entrusted to them.

In many Asian and emerging markets, family wealth often transcends a single generation or nuclear household. Resources are pooled and managed collectively, driven by a sense of duty and shared vision. This holistic approach sharply contrasts with the Western norm, where assets are typically divided among individuals with an eye on personal gain.

Embracing Shared Resources

This collective management model underscores the importance of cooperation among family members. It encourages collaboration rather than competition, which can foster stronger family bonds. Celebrating joint achievements helps to reinforce the family’s commitment to shared goals.

Canopy East - Creating Your Legacy

Throughout May, I had the opportunity to present to several organizations about the intricacies of multi-generational wealth and the unique challenges business owners face after selling their businesses. These sessions examined not just the financial strategies required for effective wealth transition, but also the emotional and practical considerations of moving from business ownership to family wealth management.

If you or your organization could benefit from a tailored presentation on these essential topics, I would be delighted to discuss how I can help your team or network. Please feel free to reach out if you wish to arrange a session or seek more information about the content I can provide.

Looking East - Investment Opportunities That Have Crossed My Desk This Month

Stay informed by following Canopy East's LinkedIn page for further insights.

Speaking Engagements

Having advised families on personal and family wealth for over 20 years, I am available for speaking engagements for your family, staff, or clients.

"How To Destroy Your Legacy in One Generation" dives into the behaviors that have led to some of the world's most significant family financial disasters and how to sidestep the pitfalls often associated with wealth.

Please contact me directly to discuss this speaking opportunity further.

'Looking East': Investment Opportunities

Not Investment Advice

In May, I attended several investor updates. Most discussions in my network focused on multi-generational planning, tax strategies, and anticipated changes to Division 296 tax on Super Funds. While I strongly believe in waiting for clarity rather than speculating on the re-elected Labor Government’s tax policies, it’s wise to consider the possibility that the Government may expand its focus beyond Super funds.

Although significant legislative changes are still a long way off, the uncertainty is understandably causing concern in the market. My impression is that further changes are likely, but it’s challenging to predict the specifics at this stage.

Spread the Word

Canopy East offers a unique service for families, providing an independent advocate to represent their financial interests.

Thank you for your continued support. We welcome opportunities to discuss how we can assist families in need.

Please contact Robert to arrange a time to further discuss our services.

Robert Carson robert@canopyeast.com.au +61 406 934 231