We emphasised positioning estate planning as a core part of holistic financial advice, not just an end-of-life discussion. Advisers can embed estate planning into client work by: Identifying IHT exposure early through portfolio reviews Using regional insights, such as the impact of property values Creating urgency around tax relief timelines, including changes from April 2026 Segmenting client banks (e.g. high-value homeowners, business owners, larger estates) Keeping messages simple and outcome-focused Encouraging multi-generational conversations to protect family wealth These steps help advisers integrate estate planning into mainstream financial planning and build stronger long-term client relationships.

Diversification is a risk-mitigation strategy that spreads exposure across different assets and opportunities. At Stellar, diversification goes beyond asset class and includes investment size, sector, structure, and project characteristics. This includes diversification within projects, such as forestry investments spread across tree species and property investments across different unit types, to reduce concentration risk. Strategic diversification positions portfolios for market shifts, supported by sector specialists to strengthen expertise and resilience. Outcome This approach enhances portfolio resilience, limits concentration risk, and provides flexibility for advisers and clients, with a focus on protecting capital, transparency on charges, and client satisfaction.

At the Stellar Estate Planning Summit, Jenny Priestley (Maple Accountancy) covered strategies for business owners to manage finances, reduce tax, and plan exits efficiently. Key Points: Profit Extraction: Salary + dividends, timing dividends, and alphabet shares to optimise family tax bands. Tax & Pensions: Plan around PAYE, pensions, and R&D tax credits. Accounts as Tools: Use P&L to track profit, balance sheet for overall position; monitor margins and cash flow. Planning Ahead: Leverage capital allowances, electric vehicles, Business Asset Disposal Relief, and Business Relief (BR) for IHT efficiency. Takeaway: Smart extraction, proactive tax planning, and early exit preparation secure growth, succession, and legacy for business owners.

At the Stellar Estate Planning Summit, Jonathan Gain hosted “Business Relief at the Heart of the Economy” with Ben Blackburn (golf) and Georgia Gale (property). Stellar: Provides IHT-efficient Business Relief (BR) solutions across sectors like forestry, hotels, golf, and property development, allowing clients to retain control while achieving efficiency after two years. Golf (Ben Blackburn): Post-pandemic growth attracts younger players and families, creating jobs, boosting local businesses, and supporting sustainability. Property Development (Georgia Gale): Redevelops brownfield sites into affordable homes, driving local economic impact and sustainable regeneration. Takeaway: Business Relief combines tax-efficient planning with real-world community benefits, from employment and housing to sustainability.