What is shaping the future of philanthropy?

Trends in Philanthropy 2025 identifies key developments to watch

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Philanthropy 2025

With the next generation—Gen X, Millennials and Gen Z—set to inherit substantial wealth over the coming decades, their opinions and preferences will increasingly influence the future of philanthropy.

  • $124 trillion

    is expected to be transferred across generations in the next 25 years

  • $105 trillion

    will flow to heirs

Four trends to watch

  1. 01

    Focus on impact returns

    Next Gens are increasingly blurring the lines between philanthropy and investing

  2. 02

    Hands-on approach

    Next Gens are more likely to work collaboratively, share knowledge and seek evidence of impact

  3. 03

    Focus on climate and justice

    Next Gens increasingly support initiatives focused on climate and social injustice

  4. 04

    Tap the power of digital

    Younger philanthropists are more likely to use technology to find, support, promote and track impact

We’ve seen our clients increasingly embrace innovative philanthropy. As we develop new ways of financing impact, we see our clients starting to adopt them, and Next Gen in particular is poised to accelerate this trend.
Dhun Davar
Head of Social Finance, UBS Optimus Foundation

Gain insights into trends shaping the future of philanthropy 
Fill out the form below to learn more about trends we’ve identified based on conversations, meetings and philanthropy trips around the globe. And connect with a UBS Advisor.

UBS Optimus Foundation is a global network of separately organized and regulated tax-exempt charitable organizations founded and managed by UBS that engage in a broad range of charitable and philanthropic activities around the world.

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