Legacy Giving: A Strategic Marketing Opportunity for Financial Advisers

Published: 20 August 2025

A new study by Rathbones reveals a significant gap in the philanthropic planning market that presents substantial opportunities for forward-thinking financial advisers. The research, highlighted in Third Force News, shows that whilst wealthy families increasingly want to leave money to charity, nearly half are deterred by legal and financial complexity.

The Market Opportunity: Growing Demand Meets Service Gap

The data reveals compelling trends that suggest a substantial market opportunity. Among high-net-worth individuals with average estates exceeding £3 million, 42% cite legal and financial complexity as the primary barrier to including charitable gifts in their wills. Additional barriers include lack of knowledge (39%) and uncertainty about where to begin (26%).