Joel Freedman’s Approach to Multi Generational Wealth Transfer
For Joel Freedman, CFP®, CPWA®, wealth transfer isn’t just about assets—it’s about legacy, purpose, and continuity. As Managing Director of Eclipse Private Wealth Management, Joel takes a deeply strategic and personal approach to helping families pass wealth across generations.
With over 40 years of experience in wealth management, Joel has worked closely with high-net-worth families to navigate the complexities of multigenerational planning. His mission: ensure that the financial success of one generation becomes the foundation of security, opportunity, and stewardship for the next.
“True wealth isn’t measured only by numbers,” Joel says. “It’s defined by how well it endures, evolves, and empowers the people it touches.”
Planning Beyond a Single Lifetime
Joel begins every wealth transfer conversation with a simple but important question: What do you want your legacy to look like?
Whether clients want to provide for future generations, support charitable causes, or preserve family values through a foundation, Joel’s job is to align those intentions with the right strategies. His process is highly customised and reflects the financial, emotional, and relational dynamics of each family.
He incorporates tools such as:
- Revocable and irrevocable trusts
- Family limited partnerships
- Charitable giving strategies
- Tax-efficient gifting and asset distribution plans
Joel also helps clients anticipate future needs such as education funding, entrepreneurial support for children, or healthcare costs for ageing parents.
Education as a Cornerstone of Wealth Continuity
One of Joel’s key principles is preparation over assumption. He believes that successful wealth transfer requires education, communication, and clear expectations. “You can’t expect future generations to preserve wealth if they don’t understand how it was built or why it matters,” he notes.
That’s why Joel often facilitates family meetings where financial values, intentions, and responsibilities are openly discussed. These sessions help reduce future conflict, build trust among family members, and empower heirs with the financial literacy they need to carry the legacy forward.
He also recommends involving the next generation in philanthropy, investing, or governance decisions early on. This not only creates continuity but fosters a sense of shared purpose.
Tax Efficiency and Strategic Structuring
The complexities of transferring wealth—especially at high levels—are often entangled with tax laws, legal frameworks, and jurisdictional issues. Joel uses his extensive knowledge, along with collaboration with estate attorneys and tax professionals, to design strategies that minimise tax exposure and ensure a smooth transition.
He monitors changes in legislation and estate tax thresholds, adjusting plans as needed to maintain compliance and preserve as much of the estate’s value as possible.
“It's not just about leaving money behind,” Joel explains. “It’s about making sure that money is protected and properly distributed—without unexpected consequences.”
Personalised, Values-Driven Legacy Planning
Joel’s approach is highly personal. He encourages clients to think beyond numbers and focus on what matters most: impact.
Whether it’s endowing a scholarship, starting a donor-advised fund, or establishing a family mission statement, Joel helps translate wealth into purpose. “Each family’s legacy is different,” he says. “My role is to help bring it to life in a way that lasts.”
Final Thoughts
Multigenerational wealth transfer is a deeply important and often complex process—but with the right guidance, it can become a powerful expression of legacy, love, and long-term vision. Joel Freedman brings together experience, insight, and heart to help families pass on more than just wealth—they pass on wisdom, values, and opportunity.
If you’re thinking about how to protect and pass your wealth to the next generation, Joel Freedman and Eclipse Private Wealth Management can help you build a strategy rooted in clarity, care, and confidence.