The Great Wealth Transfer — and Why Women Will Shape the Next Generation of Wealth
- Marc Lowe
- Oct 23
- 3 min read
Over the next two decades, America will experience the largest shift of wealth in history. Economists call it the Great Wealth Transfer — a movement of more than $120 trillion from one generation to the next.
And here’s the part few are talking about: most of it will end up in the hands of women.
What the Numbers Show
According to research from Cerulli Associates, roughly $124 trillion will change hands by 2048. The first wave typically happens when a husband passes wealth to a surviving spouse. The next wave happens when that surviving spouse — often a woman — passes assets down to children or other heirs.
Bank of America’s Institute estimates that about 70% of this total will be inherited by women. That means within the next 25 years, women could control close to two-thirds of all private wealth in the U.S.
Why This Matters
Historically, women have faced barriers to financial independence — from unequal pay to career interruptions for caregiving. Yet, over the past generation, women have made enormous strides: more education, higher wages, greater leadership representation.
Now, the combination of rising earnings and inherited wealth is creating a historic inflection point. Women aren’t just participating in the economy — they’re positioned to lead it.
As Bank of America’s report put it: “Women’s prosperity will help grow the pie of total affluence.”
How Women Can Prepare for the Wealth Transfer
A new era of wealth brings both opportunity and responsibility. Whether it’s an inheritance, the sale of a family business, or a retirement rollover, smart planning will determine whether that wealth grows — or quietly erodes.
Here are four key areas every woman should consider:
1. Start the Conversation Early
Open discussions about finances, wills, and beneficiaries can prevent confusion and conflict later. If you expect to inherit assets, make sure there’s a coordinated plan for taxes, insurance, and estate documents. Without one, even a large inheritance can shrink quickly.
2. Know Your State’s Tax Landscape
Connecticut’s tax rules on estates, trusts, and retirement accounts are unique. Understanding how distributions are taxed — and when to take them — can make a huge difference in what you keep. Timing and strategy matter.
3. Plan for Longevity
Women live, on average, six years longer than men. That’s six more years of living expenses, healthcare costs, and market volatility. Planning early for longevity — including Social Security timing and long-term-care protection — helps ensure your wealth supports you throughout retirement.
4. Grow with Purpose
Women tend to invest more conservatively than men, often out of caution rather than capability. The challenge is finding the right balance between safety and growth. Long-term wealth requires growth-oriented investing — but in a disciplined, evidence-based way.
Final Thought
The great wealth transfer isn’t just an economic event — it’s a social one. For the first time in history, women will hold the majority of the nation’s financial power.
The question is no longer if women will inherit wealth — it’s how they’ll use it.
At In The Money Retirement Planning, my mission is to help Connecticut women — whether business owners, executives, or newly retired — turn that inheritance or income into enduring financial independence.
Because wealth alone doesn’t build security. Planning does.
About The Author
Marc Lowe is the Founder & President of In The Money Retirement Planning. He is a Certified Financial Planner and member of NAPFA National Association of Personal Financial Advisors, XY Planning Network & Fee-Only Network. He works with retirees and those approaching retirement. He has over a decade of experience helping these folks grow their net worth, organize their finances and build better lives for themselves and their families.
The information presented in this Presentation is the opinion of the author and does not reflect the views of any other person or entity unless specified. The information provided is believed to be reliable and obtained from reliable sources, but no liability is accepted for inaccuracies. The information provided is for informational purposes and should not be construed as advice. Advisory services offered through In The Money Retirement, an investment adviser registered with the state of Connecticut. The information linked to on third-party sites is being provided strictly as a courtesy and convenience. When you link to any of the web sites provided here, you are leaving this website. We make no representation as to the completeness or accuracy of information provided at these websites. When you access these websites, you are leaving our website and assume any and all responsibility and risk for use of the web sites you are visiting.The tax and estate planning information offered by the advisor is general in nature. It is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal or tax advice. Always consult an attorney or tax professional regarding your specific legal or tax situation.
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