Fair vs. Equal: The Great Inheritance Paradox

One of the most divisive issues in family firms is the distribution of assets. Parents often want to be "equal" (50/50 split), but in a business, "equal" is rarely "fair."

If one child has dedicated 20 years to the company while the other has pursued a different career, giving them equal voting shares can lead to gridlock and resentment. AFB members should consider Equitable Distribution: providing the "outside" child with non-business assets (like real estate or life insurance) while keeping the business voting shares with those who actually operate it.

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