Ever heard the saying “own nothing, control everything”? It’s not just a catchphrase for the wealthy elite—it’s a strategy. And it’s one that’s easier to use than you might think. This idea is at the core of private trusts, a tool designed to help you protect your assets, while still being in control.
Whether it’s your home, business, investments, or that prized vintage car collection, a private trust gives you a way to secure your property without it being in your name. And, here’s the kicker: you can “still” manage everything without technically owning it. Let’s break it down.
What Is a Private Trust?
In simple terms, a private trust is an agreement where you (the grantor) hand over ownership ofyour assets to a trustee—someone you trust to manage them according to your instructions. Even though you’ve handed over ownership on paper, you’re still the one calling the shots.
Think of it like appointing someone to hold your place in line while you go grab a coffee—you’re not losing your spot, just making sure it’s safe.
The benefits?
Protection from Liability: When your assets are held in a trust, they’re not in your name, making it harder for creditors or lawsuits to get to them.
Privacy: Unlike a will, which can become public record, a trust remains private, keeping your business out of the spotlight.
Flexibility: You still control what happens with your assets, but you’re doing it in a way thatprotects them.
Why “Own Nothing, Control Everything”?
The idea behind this phrase is simple: when you don’t “own” your assets, they can’t be takenaway in the same way. If someone wants to come after your stuff, they’ll find that it’s not actually “your” stuff—at least, not on paper.
Instead, the trust holds ownership, while you maintain control. This separation of ownership from control is a tried-and-true strategy that the wealthy have been using for generations. And it’s not just for billionaires—anyone can take advantage of it.
It’s Not Just for the Ultra-Wealthy
You don’t need to own half of Wall Street to benefit from a private trust. Everyday families are using trusts to:
- Protect their homes and savings from potential legal threats or unexpected life events.
- Pass down wealth to the next generation while minimizing taxes and avoiding probate.
- Keep control of their business while shielding it from personal liabilities.
So, whether you’re looking to protect your family home, secure your retirement, or safeguard
your investments, private trusts offer a practical solution. It’s about peace of mind—knowing
your assets are protected, but still within your control.
The Elite’s Playbook (Now, Yours Too)
The ultra-wealthy have mastered the art of protecting their wealth with trusts. Families like the Rockefellers have been using them for decades, and while it’s a tool often associated with highnet-worth individuals, the principles apply to anyone looking to secure what they’ve built.
Now, it’s your turn to take a page out of their playbook.
Why Consider a Private Trust?
- Shield Your Assets: A trust provides a layer of protection against legal claims and creditors.
- Ensure Privacy: Unlike other legal tools, a trust keeps your affairs out of the public eye.
- Plan for the Future: Make sure your hard-earned assets are passed on to the people you care about, not eaten up by taxes or probate fees.
At EQT, we specialize in helping individuals and families use private trusts to protect and manage their wealth. Whether you’re just getting started or you’ve been thinking about asset protection for a while, we’re here to help you understand how a private trust can fit into your strategy.
Interested in Learning More?
Let’s talk about how a private trust can protect your assets and give you the control you need without the risks of ownership. Get in touch today.