Category: family office blog

Japanese Family Office Takes Over Venture Capital Fund
Japanese Family Office Takes Over Venture Capital Fund

Japanese Family Office Takes Over Venture Capital Fund

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In a significant shift in the venture capital landscape, veteran private equity executive Pierre Mauriès has merged his Tokyo-based investment fund, Nemesis Technologies Capital Partners, into his family office, PM Enterprise. The integration ensures that Nemesis Technologies, a venture capital fund focused on DeepTech investments, remains a core part of PM Enterprise’s strategic vision.

Takeover of Nemesis Technologies

Founded in 2022, Japanese venture capital fund Nemesis Technologies has been dedicated to funding cutting-edge companies in clean energy, health tech, and network infrastructure and connectivity. With the merger, the fund is now fully incorporated into PM Enterprise, a single-family office based in Japan. This move aligns with Mauriès’ long-term investment strategy, leveraging the family office’s resources to further propel the growth and impact of Nemesis Technologies.

Pierre Mauriès announced the transition in a LinkedIn post, emphasizing that Nemesis Technologies’ identity and mission remain intact. “Now fully part of PM Enterprise, Nemesis’ legacy, vision and name remain unchanged, ensuring continuity and building upon the strong foundation we’ve established,” he stated. “As our family’s DeepTech investment arm, Nemesis Technologies, together with PM Enterprise, is poised to continue driving innovation and creating value in the dynamic landscape of the Land of the Rising Sun, our cherished home.”

Mauries family office PM Enterprises

Before founding Nemesis Technologies, Mauriès held leadership roles in some of the world’s most prestigious financial firms. He previously served as an investment strategy executive at the Carlyle Group and as the private equity technology director at PwC. His extensive experience in investment strategy and private equity positions him well to lead Nemesis Technologies under the PM Enterprise umbrella.

Picture Source: Getty Images, Unsplash+

Article source: Craincurrency

How Spanish Family Offices Invested in Clave Capital's Fund
How Spanish Family Offices Invested in Clave Capital’s Fund

How Spanish Family Offices Invested in Clave Capital’s Fund

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Table of Contents

Introduction

Clave Capital, a Spanish venture capital firm, has successfully reached a first close of around €50 million for its Clave Innohealth fund. This fund is focused on investing in startups and innovative projects in the healthcare sector, attracting commitments from various investors, including Spanish family offices.

Clave Innohealth Fund Overview

The Clave Innohealth fund aims to raise €65 million, with a hard cap set at €80 million. The fund has secured commitments from CDTI (through its Innvierte program), family offices linked to the health sector, pharmaceutical laboratories, financial investors, and academic institutions.

As a CNMV-regulated fund, it is targeted at professional investors, including industrial groups, corporate ventures, funds of funds, and family offices. Fundraising efforts will continue until the target size is met.

Investment Strategy

The fund aims to invest in around 30 companies, ranging from early-stage startups to Series A financing rounds. Initial investments are expected to be between €500k and €1 million, with potential follow-on investments reaching up to €3 million per project.

Key focus areas include Medtech, Digital Health, Health-Nutrition, and Biotech. With the first close completed, the fund is now operational and actively seeking investment opportunities in these sectors.

First Investments

Clave Capital has already made its first investment from the Clave Innohealth fund by leading a financing round in Innitius, a startup focused on improving diagnostics for women’s health. Innitius is currently conducting clinical trials for its AI-powered diagnostic tool, FineBirth, designed to help gynecologists make more accurate decisions about premature birth diagnoses.

Clave Capital’s Investment in Genbioma

In addition to its investments through the Clave Innohealth fund, Clave Capital has also supported Genbioma, a biotech startup from Navarra, with an investment of €525,000. This investment was made through the funds UN I+D+i Tech Transfer, Navarra Tech Transfer, and the WA4STEAM investor network.

The funding will be used for new clinical trials, expanding Genbioma’s business structure, and commercializing its postbiotic product, pA1c®HI. This patented postbiotic helps balance gut microbiota and improve glucose and lipid metabolism in people with diabetes and obesity. The company has also developed a nutritional supplement, Reglubetic® H1, based on this innovation.

Clave Capital sees this investment as part of its broader commitment to the eHealth sector, supporting promising scientific and commercial projects. Santiago Lozano, director of funds at Clave Capital, emphasized the significance of Genbioma’s early results and its potential impact on the food and pharmaceutical industries.

Conclusion

Clave Capital continues to strengthen its presence in the healthcare sector through its Clave Innohealth fund and targeted investments like Genbioma. With substantial backing from Spanish family offices and institutional investors, the fund is well-positioned to support groundbreaking innovations in Medtech, Digital Health, and Biotech, shaping the future of the healthcare industry.

Picture Source: Ahmed, Unsplash+ (19.02.2025)

Source: EU Startups

Deal Source: El Referente

Balancing Traditional and Alternative Investments: Family Office Perspectives
Balancing Traditional and Alternative Investments: Family Office Perspectives

Balancing Traditional and Alternative Investments: Family Office Perspectives

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Family offices are increasingly diversifying their portfolios, balancing traditional asset classes like equities and fixed income with alternative investments such as private equity, real estate, and venture capital. This trend is driven by the need to achieve long-term growth, reduce portfolio volatility, and align investments with macroeconomic trends and innovation in sectors such as climate technology.

Case Study: BESEN Family Office and Climate Tech Ventures

The Melbourne-based single-family office of Daniel Besen has recently committed to Climate Tech Partners as an anchor investor. Climate Tech Partners is a venture capital fund focused on early-stage investments in energy, transport, logistics, and industrials, with a mission to accelerate decarbonization through innovative software and hardware solutions.

Founded by Patrick Sieb and Tom Kline, Climate Tech Partners leverages the founders’ experience in corporate, startup, and government sectors to attract corporate partners and high-potential investment opportunities. The fund is nearing its first close, with commitments exceeding $35 million of its $45 million target.

After evaluating over 30 potential managers, the BESEN family office chose Climate Tech Partners for its differentiated model that de-risks venture investing by partnering with large corporates to identify demand-driven opportunities. This approach helps accelerate portfolio companies through corporate trials and contracts.

Duncan Murray, CEO of BESEN Family Office, emphasized, “Climate technology is driven by significant macroeconomic factors and aligns well with long-term trends such as energy security and domestic manufacturing.” The partnership with Climate Tech Partners provides the family office with an opportunity to diversify its venture-stage investments and gain exposure to emerging technologies.

Additional BESEN Investments

In addition to its investment in Climate Tech Partners, BESEN Family Office has participated in several other investments. In 2022, BESEN served as the lead investor in the acquisition of the Sydney-based babywear brand Snuggle Hunny Kids, a transaction led by Julie Mathers, founder of Flora & Fauna, in collaboration with Arcus Partners. More recently, in 2024, Arcus Partners acquired a majority stake in Australian AdTech software firm Sesimi on behalf of BESEN.

German Family Office Focus: Reimann Investors

Reimann Investors, a German family office, takes a structured and academically driven approach to capital market investments. The family office’s primary goal is to preserve and increase the family’s wealth over the long term by actively managing a diversified portfolio.

Investment Philosophy and Process

The Reimann approach combines top-down macroeconomic analysis with bottom-up selection strategies. The family office’s Investment Committee regularly makes decisions on asset class allocation based on comprehensive technical and macroeconomic analysis of global markets.

  • Top-Down Allocation: The committee determines the overall weighting of asset classes.
  • Bottom-Up Selection: Investments within each asset class are selected using quantitatively driven strategies.
  • Holistic Risk Management: Risks are managed both at the portfolio and individual investment levels.

What Sets Reimann Investors Apart

The Reimann team is known for combining academic expertise with practical experience. Customized models and tools ensure their process remains adaptable to changing market conditions. Their diversified portfolio includes international equities, bonds, commodities, precious metals, and liquid alternative investments, with targeted use of derivatives to manage risk.

“Our goal is to achieve stable long-term performance while maintaining the flexibility to respond to dynamic market conditions,” explains a Reimann executive. This active approach allows the family office to protect and grow the family’s assets in a rapidly changing global environment.

Conclusion

Balancing traditional and alternative investments is crucial for family offices aiming for long-term success. While BESEN focuses on venture capital and innovative climate technology, Reimann Investors prioritizes a disciplined, research-driven approach to capital markets. Both strategies highlight the importance of diversification, risk management, and alignment with global trends in the family office investment landscape.

Picture Source: Getty Images (Unsplash+)

Why Family Offices Are Turning to Active Management Strategies
Why Family Offices Are Turning to Active Management Strategies

Why Family Offices Are Turning to Active Management Strategies

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Table of Contents

Introduction

As global economic uncertainty and market volatility persist, family offices are increasingly reevaluating their investment approaches. In 2025, active management is emerging as a crucial strategy for achieving robust portfolio diversification. Unlike passive investing, active management offers family offices the flexibility and agility needed to respond to rapid changes in market dynamics, enabling them to better safeguard their wealth across generations.

Case Studies: FGTC Investment and Weybourne

The transformation of Do Investment into FGTC Investment exemplifies the increasing role of active management within family offices. Formerly a single-family office for the Dornier family, FGTC Investment now operates under the Viessmann Generations Group. This transition highlights the importance of aligning investment strategies with long-term family goals. FGTC Investment’s emphasis on liquid portfolio management and sustainable growth underscores the value of active management in navigating modern financial landscapes.

Similarly, Weybourne, the family office of James Dyson, demonstrates the advantages of active management. Under Jane Simpson’s leadership as Chief Investment Officer, Weybourne has expanded its focus on hedge funds, venture capital, and real estate. The office’s ability to adapt its strategies, such as acquiring prime real estate like 126-127 New Bond Street in London, showcases how active management can capitalize on emerging opportunities.

Benefits of Active Management for Family Offices

Active management provides several benefits that are particularly relevant for family offices. These include:

  • Customized Solutions: Active management allows for tailored investment strategies that align with a family’s unique goals and values.
  • Enhanced Risk Management: By closely monitoring market conditions, active managers can adjust portfolios to mitigate risks effectively.
  • Access to Niche Opportunities: Active management facilitates investments in specialized sectors such as venture capital and private equity.

For families like the Viessmanns and Dysons, these benefits are essential for preserving wealth while driving innovation and sustainability.

Active Management Strategies in 2025

In 2025, successful family offices are employing diverse strategies to maximize the benefits of active management. These strategies include:

  • Allocating to alternative investments such as private equity and venture capital to achieve higher returns.
  • Integrating ESG criteria into investment decisions to meet both ethical and financial objectives.
  • Leveraging data analytics and AI-driven tools for more informed decision-making.

By embracing these approaches, family offices can enhance their portfolios’ resilience and long-term performance.

Executive Summary

In 2025, the shift towards active management reflects the evolving priorities of family offices. By focusing on tailored strategies, enhanced risk management, and access to niche opportunities, active management enables families to navigate complex markets while preserving and growing their wealth. Examples like FGTC Investment and Weybourne illustrate how active management aligns with long-term goals, providing flexibility and resilience in an unpredictable world. As market dynamics continue to evolve, active management is set to play an integral role in portfolio diversification and wealth preservation for family offices worldwide.

The Rise of Sustainability and Impact Investing in Family Offices
The Rise of Sustainability and Impact Investing in Family Offices

The Rise of Sustainability and Impact Investing in Family Offices

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Table of Contents

Introduction

Sustainability and impact investing are becoming central themes in family offices worldwide. The focus is shifting from traditional financial returns to creating long-term environmental and social impact. This article explores key strategies and real-world examples that demonstrate how family offices are making a difference.

Why Sustainability Matters

Global challenges such as climate change, resource depletion, and social inequality are compelling family offices to rethink their investment approaches. By aligning financial goals with sustainable practices, these institutions can contribute to a better future while safeguarding their portfolios against emerging risks.

Family Office Strategies

Family offices pursue the following strategies in the sustainability field:

Hiring Experts in Sustainability

The family office of Google co-founder Sergey Brin has taken a significant step by hiring Rachel Teo, a former sustainability lead at Singapore’s GIC Pte, to oversee green investments. This move reflects the increasing demand for experienced professionals to guide family offices in identifying and managing sustainable opportunities.

Investing in Green Technologies

Family offices are backing innovations in renewable energy, waste management, and sustainable agriculture. FIGR Ventures, for instance, invests in early-stage businesses that drive positive environmental and social change. Their focus includes alternatives to harmful consumer goods, tools for sustainable choices, and solutions addressing critical issues like education and healthcare.

Impact-Focused Funds

Impact funds are a growing trend among family offices. The Althelia Sustainable Ocean Fund and Ocean 14 Capital are examples of initiatives that support the blue economy. These funds target investments in areas such as ocean conservation, sustainable fisheries, and reducing plastic waste, aligning with UN Sustainable Development Goal 14.

Supporting Blue Economy Initiatives

With the blue economy valued at $24 trillion, family offices are leveraging opportunities in this sector to promote sustainability. Investments in mangrove restoration, offshore wind production, and decarbonizing shipping have demonstrated high returns. For example, Belize’s blue bond initiative reduced debt while funding marine conservation efforts.

Case Studies

Case Study 1: Bayshore Global Management, the family office of Sergey Brin, has expanded its focus on green investments by establishing a sustainability team in Singapore. This strategic move is expected to drive impactful investments in Asia and beyond.

Case Study 2: FIGR Ventures, backed by a UK-based family office, is investing in startups that aim to change consumer behavior towards sustainability. Their targeted approach ensures high engagement with founders and scalable impact-driven outcomes.

Case Study 3: Ocean-focused funds like the Althelia Sustainable Ocean Fund have attracted investments from European institutions and private investors to tackle ocean plastic pollution and promote sustainable aquaculture.

Executive Summary

The rise of sustainability and impact investing in family offices underscores the importance of aligning financial goals with environmental and social outcomes. Strategies such as hiring sustainability experts, investing in green technologies, and supporting blue economy initiatives are proving effective. These approaches not only ensure resilience but also create a lasting legacy of positive impact.

Picture source: Jonny Gios (Unsplash+)

How Family Offices Are Adapting to Geopolitical Risks in 2025
How Family Offices Are Adapting to Geopolitical Risks in 2025

How Family Offices Are Adapting to Geopolitical Risks in 2025

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Table of Contents

Introduction

Geopolitical risks in 2025 are more interconnected than ever, with rapid changes in global alliances, economic policies, and technological advancements. Family offices, which manage significant wealth across generations, must adapt to protect their investments and pursue growth. This article provides practical, actionable strategies to address these challenges effectively.

Understanding Geopolitical Risks

Geopolitical risks include political instability, trade restrictions, sanctions, and conflicts that can disrupt global markets. The increasing interdependence of economies amplifies the impact of these risks, requiring family offices to adopt a nuanced and dynamic approach.

Key Adaptation Strategies

Diversified Investment Portfolios

Family offices are broadening their portfolios to include assets that are less sensitive to geopolitical disruptions. For example, investing in sectors like healthcare, technology, and renewable energy offers resilience. Additionally, shifting towards global investments mitigates over-reliance on any single region.

Regional Risk Analysis

Analyzing the specific risks associated with different regions is critical. Family offices are deploying geopolitical risk assessment tools to evaluate factors such as regulatory stability, economic outlook, and security issues. This ensures informed decisions about where to allocate resources.

Emphasis on Digital Assets

Digital assets like cryptocurrencies and blockchain-based investments are gaining traction due to their decentralized nature. These assets can provide a hedge against traditional financial systems that may be affected by geopolitical tensions. Family offices are incorporating these into their portfolios while ensuring compliance with emerging regulations. Also Citibank stated in a recent report that more and more family offices are eyeing crypto investments.

Building Global Networks

Establishing relationships with international advisors, financial institutions, and local experts helps family offices remain agile. By leveraging these networks, they can respond quickly to geopolitical changes and identify opportunities in emerging markets. This can also include opening offices all around the globe. For instance, the Sergey Brin family office opened an office in Singapore for its global diversification.

Case Studies

Case Study 1: A family office in North America collaborated with geopolitical analysts to navigate U.S.-China trade tensions. By diversifying its investments into Southeast Asia, the office mitigated exposure to tariffs and gained access to growing markets.

Case Study 2: A European family office pivoted towards green bonds and renewable energy projects in response to geopolitical concerns over energy security. This move not only reduced risks but also aligned with sustainable investment goals.

Conclusion

Geopolitical risks in 2025 present challenges but also opportunities for family offices. By diversifying portfolios, employing regional risk analysis, embracing digital assets, and leveraging global networks, family offices can not only safeguard their wealth but also position themselves for long-term growth in an uncertain world.

Executive Summary

In an era of escalating geopolitical risks, family offices must adopt comprehensive strategies to protect their investments. This includes diversifying portfolios, analyzing regional risks, integrating digital assets, and building robust global networks. These measures enable family offices to navigate uncertainties and capitalize on emerging opportunities for sustainable growth.

Picture source: Getty Images, Unsplash+

Family Office Debt Structure for Real Estate Deals: An Alabama Case Study

Family Office Debt Structure for Real Estate Deals: An Alabama Case Study

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Family offices often engage in real estate investments to diversify their portfolios and generate stable, long-term returns. These ventures frequently require external financing to optimize capital efficiency and manage risk exposure. This case study examines the debt structure employed by Hillcrest Acquisitions, a New York-based family office, in a recent multifamily development project in Alabama.

Case Study Overview: The Gabriel in Huntsville, Alabama

Hillcrest Acquisitions secured a $49.5 million loan from 3650 REIT (a leading US real estate investor) to finance the construction of The Gabriel, a 288-unit residential community in Madison, Alabama, a submarket of Huntsville. Marc Tropp, senior managing director at Eastern Union Funding, facilitated this three-year loan, arranged through 3650 REIT’s Bridge and Event Driven investment platform.

Construction of The Gabriel began in the third quarter of 2022 and is expected to be completed by July 2024. The gated community will feature 10 three-story, garden-style apartment buildings, enhanced amenities such as a swimming pool, playground, and electric vehicle charging stations, as well as 520 parking spaces.

Why Family Offices Use Debt for Real Estate

Family offices often seek loans for real estate development to achieve several objectives:

  • Capital Preservation: Leveraging debt allows family offices to preserve their equity while still participating in lucrative opportunities.
  • Risk Mitigation: Sharing project costs with lenders helps mitigate financial risks, especially in large-scale developments.
  • Project Viability: Access to reliable financing ensures the uninterrupted progress of projects, even during challenging market conditions.

3650 REIT’s Role in the Financing

Hillcrest Acquisitions selected 3650 REIT for its ability to provide a fully capitalized debt structure and expertise in servicing mid-construction loans. This collaboration reflects the adaptability of 3650 REIT, which continues to provide funding solutions despite broader market slowdowns. According to Jonathan Roth, co-founder and managing partner of 3650 REIT, the Huntsville area’s growing defense and STEM employment sectors make it a promising location for multifamily investments.

3650 REIT’s Bridge and Event Driven platform has facilitated several similar loans. In the first quarter alone, the platform closed seven loans totaling $240 million across various asset classes. This robust activity demonstrates its role as a dependable financing partner for real estate developers.

The Mitchell Family Office: A Success Story from Michigan

The Mitchell Family Office: A Success Story from Michigan

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The Mitchell Family Office (MFO) was established in 2015 by Mark Mitchell, an entrepreneur with decades of experience in founding and managing businesses across various industries. Based in Michigan, MFO has grown into a platform focused on investments, business building, and creating opportunities for future generations.

The MFO Story

Mark Mitchell began his entrepreneurial journey in 1979 at the age of 15, starting a lawn service business that generated more than $50,000 annually. This early experience provided a foundation for his future endeavors. Over the next several decades, he founded multiple businesses and invested in numerous industries.

In 1993, Mark established Visiting Physicians Association (VPA), a physician house call practice inspired by his efforts to help his grandmother access better healthcare. VPA grew into a leading house call practice in the United States, operating in over 40 locations across 14 states. Alongside VPA, he founded U.S. Medical Management (USMM), Grace Hospice, Pinnacle Senior Care, and The Home DME, creating an integrated system of home-based care services for over 50,000 patients annually.

In 2014, Mark sold his interest in USMM to Centene Corporation while remaining involved in operations until his departure in 2015. Following this, he founded the Mitchell Family Office as a platform to manage investments and provide opportunities for future generations. Since its inception, MFO has invested in over 20 companies across a range of industries.

In 2018, Mark co-founded Lorient Capital, a private equity firm focused on lower-middle-market healthcare investments. He remained the largest investor until 2022, when he sold his interests. Other notable milestones for MFO include the 2020 opening of The Daxton Hotel, a luxury hotel in Birmingham, Michigan, and the growth of the family office to over 20 employees by 2022.

Timeline

  • 1979: Mark starts his first business at the age of 15, earning over $50,000 annually from his lawn service company.
  • 1987: Mark makes his first real estate investment.
  • 1993: Founding of Visiting Physicians Association (VPA) and U.S. Medical Management (USMM).
  • 2005: Creation of Pinnacle Senior Care, a home health agency providing nursing and therapy services.
  • 2006: Establishment of Grace Hospice, focusing on patient-centered end-of-life care.
  • 2014: Sale of a controlling interest in USMM to Centene Corporation.
  • 2015: Launch of the Mitchell Family Office.
  • 2018: Co-founding of Lorient Capital.
  • 2020: Opening of The Daxton Hotel in Birmingham, Michigan.
  • 2022: MFO expands to over 20 employees and diversifies its investment strategies.

Strategies

MFO focuses on long-term investment strategies across multiple industries, emphasizing sustainable growth and value creation. The office leverages its founder’s experience in healthcare, real estate, and private equity to guide its activities.

Team

The Mitchell Family Office team comprises experienced professionals specializing in investment management, business operations, and strategic planning. The team works collaboratively to identify opportunities and manage the office’s diverse portfolio. The family office is located in Birmingham, which is close to Detroit, which is also a family office hotspot.

What are 5 ways to get a family office invest in your startup?
What are 5 ways to get a family office invest in your startup?

What are 5 ways to get a family office invest in your startup?

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Securing investment from a family office can be a significant milestone for any startup. Family offices offer not just capital, but also valuable expertise and networks. Here are five strategies to attract investment from a family office for your startup.

1. Align with the Family Office’s Values and Interests

Overview: Family offices often have specific investment themes or values that guide their investment decisions. You can look at th Munich-based Reimann Investors family office, to get an impression of viable family office investment verticals.

Strategy: Research the family office’s investment philosophy and tailor your pitch to align with their interests and values, such as sustainability, technological innovation, or social impact.

2. Demonstrate a Strong Business Model

Overview: A well-thought-out and viable business model is crucial to gain the confidence of family office investors.

Strategy: Clearly articulate your business model, revenue streams, and market potential. Show how your startup stands out in the market and its scalability.

3. Build a Solid Management Team

Overview: Family offices invest in people as much as they invest in ideas. A strong, experienced management team can be a key factor in securing investment.

Strategy: Assemble a team with a track record of success, relevant industry experience, and complementary skills. Highlight the strengths and expertise of your team members in your pitch.

4. Network and Build Relationships

Overview: Networking is essential in the world of family offices. Building relationships can lead to investment opportunities.

Strategy: Attend industry events, join relevant forums, and seek introductions to family office networks. Focus on building genuine relationships rather than making a direct sales pitch.

5. Showcase a Clear Path to Returns

Overview: Like all investors, family offices want to understand the return potential on their investment.

Strategy: Present a realistic and well-supported projection of financial returns. Include exit strategies and risk management plans to demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the investment landscape.

Conclusion

Attracting investment from a family office requires a startup to align with the office’s values, demonstrate a strong business model and management team, engage in effective networking, and provide a clear path to financial returns. By focusing on these areas, startups can significantly increase their chances of securing a family office investment.

Picture Source: Christopher Gower

Definition: What is a Cyber Security Threat Assessment for Family Offices?
Definition: What is a Cyber Security Threat Assessment for Family Offices?

Definition: What is a Cyber Security Threat Assessment for Family Offices?

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Cybersecurity is becoming an increasingly essential topic for family offices. For this, Deloitte has published its own family office cybersecurity report. Focusing on IT security makes sense since family offices are becoming more and more often subject to cyberattacks. This also plays an important role in the IT management of the largest US family offices.

Definition of Cyber Security Threat Assessment

A cyber security threat assessment is a systematic evaluation of potential vulnerabilities, risks, and threats to a family office’s digital infrastructure,
assets, and sensitive information. For family offices, this is particularly crucial given the wealth and private data they manage, which makes them prime targets
for cyberattacks.

Why is Cyber Security Critical for Family Offices?

Family offices often handle sensitive data, such as personal financial details, investment portfolios, and confidential communications. A breach can lead to
financial losses, reputational damage, and privacy violations. A cyber security threat assessment helps identify weak points and implement measures to
mitigate risks, ensuring the safety of family assets and information.

For example, phishing attacks or ransomware targeting a family office’s email system could compromise highly sensitive information.

Key Elements of a Cyber Security Threat Assessment

A comprehensive cyber security threat assessment for a family office typically includes the following steps:

  • Identifying Digital Assets: Cataloging all IT systems, networks, applications, and sensitive data to understand what needs protection.
  • Analyzing Potential Threats: Evaluating risks such as phishing, malware, ransomware, insider threats, and external attacks.
  • Assessing Vulnerabilities: Examining weak points in the IT infrastructure, such as outdated software, unsecured devices, or poor password practices.
  • Simulating Attacks: Conducting penetration tests to simulate cyberattacks and evaluate the system’s resilience.
  • Providing Recommendations: Offering actionable insights to enhance security, such as implementing multi-factor authentication or network monitoring tools.

Imaginary Example: The Stevenson Family Office

The Stevenson family office manages $800 million in assets, including investments in tech startups. Following an attempted phishing attack targeting the CEO,
the family office conducts a cyber security threat assessment. The evaluation reveals:

  • Weak password policies, with multiple shared accounts among staff.
  • Lack of encryption for sensitive financial documents shared via email.
  • Unsecured IoT devices on the office’s Wi-Fi network.

As a result, the family office implements stronger password protocols, encrypts all sensitive data, and segregates IoT devices on a separate network.
These actions reduce the likelihood of future breaches.

Proactive Cyber Security Measures

Beyond threat assessments, family offices should adopt proactive measures such as:

  • Employee Training: Educating staff about phishing, social engineering, and secure data practices.
  • Regular Audits: Conducting periodic security reviews to address new vulnerabilities.
  • Advanced Tools: Utilizing firewalls, endpoint protection, and intrusion detection systems.
  • Incident Response Plan: Establishing a clear protocol for responding to cyberattacks to minimize damage.

Picture source: Getty Images