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India is expected to become the world’s fourth-largest economy by 2025, with the IMF projecting 6.5% growth for FY26. This momentum, combined with a strong startup ecosystem, has led to a sharp rise in the number of high-net-worth individuals (HNIs) and ultra-HNIs.
According to industry estimates, India has over 8.5 lakh HNIs today — a number likely to double by 2027.
A growing share of this segment includes young founders and first-generation entrepreneurs, particularly from the technology, fintech, and startup space.
Structured wealth management gains ground
The rapid accumulation of wealth is prompting a change in how it is managed. Advisors report growing interest in purpose-led financial planning, estate structuring, and succession readiness.
This trend reflects the need to shift from short-term returns to long-term capital preservation.
“India is entering a new phase of wealth expansion,” said Swati Saxena, Founder & CEO of 4Thoughts Finance. “What matters now is not just how wealth is built, but how it is structured and governed.”
She added, “We’re seeing a rise in demand for custom advisory solutions that go beyond investment performance. Families want clarity, intent, and long-term stewardship.”
Key sectors driving wealth include equity markets, real estate, manufacturing, and technology.
Urbanisation, IPOs, and private equity inflows into family businesses are also contributing to liquidity events, demanding professional oversight.
Family offices and governance models
Family offices are emerging as a preferred model for managing complex wealth needs. These setups offer consolidated services, including investment management, philanthropy, tax optimisation, and succession planning.
While family offices are well-established in global markets, India’s ecosystem is still developing.
Experts say the demand for institutionalised, cross-border structures is increasing as families seek global diversification and legacy continuity.
“There is a visible shift from fragmented financial decisions to structured capital allocation,” Saxena noted. “As wealth becomes multigenerational, governance and planning will be key pillars.”
Focus areas for wealth strategy
The evolving landscape has brought new priorities to the forefront:
- Succession Planning: Early-stage planning is gaining attention to avoid future disputes.
- Impact and ESG Investing: Younger investors are factoring in sustainability goals.
- Cross-Border Structuring: Global investments require regulatory and legal clarity.
- Institutional Advisory Models: Families are engaging multi-disciplinary advisory teams.
Saxena emphasised that the next phase of wealth advisory will require professionals who operate as custodians, not just consultants. “Families are asking bigger questions — not just about returns, but about values, outcomes, and readiness for transition,” she said.
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