Issue 01
September 2025
Welcome to the inaugural edition of our research series on family succession and legacy.
Across Asia and beyond, family enterprises aim to preserve both their businesses and values. Yet, despite clear intentions and growing institutional support, succession planning is often delayed.
Succession is not a handover; it is a living practice
Introducing what WMI calls the Legacy Flywheel, the report offers a fresh perspective on succession planning: rather than viewing it as a one-time legal or financial event, successful families treat succession as an ongoing cycle in which small, intentional actions, repeated consistently, compound into unity and resilience over time.
Philanthropy serves as a powerful bridge-builder in succession
In addition, our research identifies that philanthropy plays a pivotal role by serving as a low-conflict area where families can unite around shared values while engaging the next generation in meaningful stewardship development.
This report highlights key challenges and opportunities in succession planning for Asian family enterprises—and raises important questions that WMI will explore in subsequent publications.
