
Engineering a Successful Transfer of Family Capital and Wisdom With Ken Costa
Today, I have the pleasure of speaking with Ken Costa, a prominent investment banker, author, philanthropist, and trusted advisor whose career has spanned more than four decades. Born in South Africa, Ken was active in the anti-apartheid movement as a student leader before embarking on a distinguished career in global finance. He has held several senior leadership positions, including Chairman of UBS Investment Bank for Europe, the Middle East and Africa, Chairman of Lazard International, and Co-Chairman of Alvarium Investments, a global multi-family investment office. Over the course of his career, Ken has advised major international companies, families, and sovereign wealth funds on some of the most significant transactions of recent decades, including the sale of Harrods. Alongside his work in finance, he has dedicated considerable time to philanthropy and service, supporting organizations such as Great Ormond Street Hospital, The Nelson Mandela Children's Fund, and the Archbishop of Canterbury's Lambeth Trust. He is also the author of several books, including his latest, The 100 Trillion Dollar Wealth Transfer: Will the Handover from Boomers to Gen Z Revolutionize Capitalism? Ken shares his perspective on the historic transfer of wealth now underway and explains why this generational handoff represents far more than the movement of financial capital. He discusses the significance of the estimated $100 trillion transition and explores the opportunities and challenges families face as they prepare the next generation to steward wealth responsibly. A central theme of our conversation is the transfer of intangible family assets, including wisdom, relationships, values, and purpose. Ken explains why these forms of capital are often more difficult to pass on than financial assets and offers insights into how families can become more intentional in preparing future generations for leadership and stewardship. Ken also discusses the importance of a "co-" mindset, emphasizing collaboration, co-creation, and shared ownership in designing the future of the family enterprise. He shares practical guidance for family office professionals, advisors, and family leaders seeking to build stronger partnerships and facilitate successful transitions across generations. Enjoy this insightful conversation with a globally respected advisor on how families can thoughtfully transfer both wealth and wisdom while preparing future generations to flourish.















