The inter-generational transfer of wealth is a trend that has taken many analysts by surprise. With the asset-rich, baby-boomer generation slowly approaching retirement, their children and grandchildren are set to inherit an unprecedented amount of wealth. Research from EY suggests that those born between 1981 and 1996 could receive $30trn in the US alone over the next 20 years in the US alone.1
In practicality, what does the growth of the millennial investor mean for those in the financial service industry?
Some things are likely to stay the same. The ultimate aim for the investors of tomorrow will be a healthy return over the long term, whilst minimising risk. Furthermore, millennials still have many of the same client management needs as their parents and grandparents; research conducted by Deloitte suggests the overwhelming majority (82%) prefer face-to-face or more traditional means of finding out about financial options.2
However, the type of asset class millennial investors will be seeking to pool their capital into could be significantly different from the preferences of previous generations. This is due to the attitudes and beliefs of millennials, who tend to be more concerned about the incorporation of environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors when making financial decisions.