Material wealth can be transferred, taxed, spent, or lost—but values, lessons, and lived wisdom endure. An ethical will offers a way to intentionally pass those non-financial assets to future generations, capturing who we are, what we believe, and what we hope our loved ones carry forward. More than a historical tradition, ethical wills are gaining renewed relevance as families seek meaning, resilience, and connection across generations. Drawing on personal experience and insights from Susan Turnbull, this article explores what an ethical will is, why it matters, and how articulating core principles can become a lasting gift—one that guides, grounds, and strengthens families long after material assets have changed hands.
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About Investments & Wealth Review
Investments & Wealth Review is a bimonthly magazine, written by award-winning authors from academic institutions and leading financial firms. Immerse yourself in current industry news and thought-provoking articles on the investment, legal, regulatory, business development, retirement, and wealth management topics that matter most to you and your clients.
