From its inception Family Office Exchange has provided its membership with insights and solutions to the complex issues that surround families and private investors who create and preserve wealth. Over 15 years of FOX research on these issues, from investments to effective governance, is available to you as a member.

FOX Research

Pricing for Profitability: Pricing Practices in an Evolving Ultra-Wealth Marketplace
(January 2009)
This in-depth study of the private wealth market offers a comprehensive review of pricing strategies and practices that leading multi-family offices, private banks and other wealth advisors employ to realize full value from their relationships with ultra-wealthy clients. In addition to an overview of current pricing practices, this study profiles cases of innovative approaches to pricing and pricing communications. The lessons from these case studies speak to broader themes in revenue mix and revenue management.

A Family Case Study: Selecting the Right Wealth Advisor
(Q4 2008)
Selecting the right organization as a partner in the management and oversight of a family enterprise is one of the most important decisions a family will make. Success in this endeavor requires a significant investment of the family’s time, talent and resources to ensure a thorough and disciplined due diligence process. Thoughtful consideration of the service needs of the entire family group, consistent communication and family involvement in the selection process are short-term investments by family members that return long-term benefits for all. This case study of the Wilson family (pseudonym) profiles one family’s thoughtful and diligent search for the right MFO to support their financial goals and to manage their family enterprise.

Boundaries That Matter: Managing Family Assets Separately from the Family Business
February 2008
Separating the management of personal financial affairs from company affairs is an essential best practice for all business-owning families. This new white paper from FOX outlines the significant benefits that families gain when they establish a separate family office or partner with a wealth management firm that is independent of the operating company. Taking such measures not only provides immediate and long-term tangible value but also protects the family from unnecessary legal and privacy risks. Importantly, this paper also outlines the key steps involved in the separation process to provide families with a road map for successfully managing the transition.

The Enduring Enterprise:
Building a Sustainable Wealth Advisory Business
August 2007
The wealth advisory industry is growing at an unprecedented rate as more and more registered investment advisors, larger financial institutions, accounting and law firms are attracted by strong client population growth rates in the ultra wealthy segment. Although there is tremendous market opportunity and barriers to entry are relatively low, service requirements are extremely complex and competition is intense. This study examines the high-level operational challenges facing wealth advisors and identifies successful business practices of firms that are well-positioned for future growth and profitability.

Preparing the Next Generation for the Responsibilities of Ownership
White Paper
March 2007
The result of one year of research and study with ultra-wealthy families, this landmark report by FOX not only examines the need for thoughtful, intentional preparation for ownership but also provides proven strategies for sustaining family wealth for multiple generations.

This report includes member-generated lists of desirable attitudes and behaviors, a road map of responsible behaviors that family members can emulate, the challenges to responsible ownership and how they can be overcome, and education strategies recommended by members.

2006 Recasting the Central Role of the Family Office as Risk Manager

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