Market Commentary

The higher federal estate tax exemption creates more room for wealth transfers, but owners still need to consider their own financial needs, the company’s ability to keep operating, and the readiness of the people who will run it. In PwC’s 2025 Global Family Business Survey, 78% of respondents identified safeguarding the business as a top

A conversation about the higher estate tax exemption led to a practical question for family business owners: when should ownership transfer, and when should control change hands? When Should Business Owners Transfer Ownership? Owners should evaluate whether to transfer business interests during life or at passing. Retaining ownership until death—the Grim Reaper plan, as we

The federal estate and gift tax basic exclusion amount is $15 million per person in 2026, with inflation adjustments beginning in 2027. For owners of closely held businesses, the higher exemption raises questions about the timing of planning and how to measure the value of an estate. Higher Exemption Creates Opportunity, Not a Reason to