The holiday season is in full swing — a time for gathering, reconnecting, and reflecting on the people and traditions that matter most.

For our team at Black Walnut Wealth Management, it’s also a moment to express our gratitude for the families we’re privileged to serve across Northern Michigan and beyond.

This month naturally brings conversations that reach across generations. Parents share stories, grandparents pass along wisdom, and families look ahead to a new year with fresh hopes and intentions. It’s during these moments that many begin thinking not just about their wealth, but about the legacy and values they want to carry forward.

Our featured article explores this theme in depth, offering practical ways to help younger generations prepare for the opportunities and responsibilities that come with family wealth. Meaningful guidance today can build confidence and stewardship that lasts well into the future.

We invite you to read the full article below and reflect on how your family’s financial story can continue to grow in the year ahead.

~ The Team at Black Walnut Wealth Management

Helping younger generations prepare for family wealth is about far more than dollars and documents. It starts with open conversations, shared values, and small moments of guidance that build confidence over time. When families create space for these discussions early, they lay the groundwork for healthy financial habits that last.

Our latest article explores practical ways to begin these conversations — from setting clear expectations to gradually introducing financial responsibilities that match a child’s maturity. These steps help younger family members understand both the privilege and purpose of managing wealth well.

Read on to learn how thoughtful preparation today can strengthen your family’s financial future and support a legacy that carries forward into the next generation.

Preparing for a New Year of Planning

With 2026 approaching, many families are starting to think about the year ahead — from tax planning opportunities to upcoming milestones and long-term goals. We’re watching several themes that may influence planning, including updated contribution limits and ongoing tax policy discussions.

Next month, we’ll begin revisiting core planning items with clients. Distributions, reallocations, portfolio balancing, charitable intentions, and overall investment alignment for the new year will be a focus but we also manage these throughout the year. These small but important updates help ensure each plan continues to support long-term goals.

Our focus remains on helping each client move into 2026 with clarity, confidence, and long-term resilience.

Starting Meaningful Family Conversations

The holidays often bring together multiple generations — a natural setting for thoughtful conversations about values, goals, and the future. These discussions don’t need to be formal or detailed. In fact, the most impactful moments usually begin with simple questions: What matters most to our family? What do we hope future generations will carry forward?

Sharing your financial philosophy — not numbers or account details — can help younger family members understand the purpose behind your planning. It also opens the door to clearer expectations and smoother transitions in the years ahead.

A New Year for Tax-Efficient Giving

January 1 brings a fresh opportunity to make tax-efficient gifts to family members. The annual gift tax exclusion resets each year, allowing you to give up to the annual limit (per recipient) without reducing your lifetime exemption or triggering gift tax considerations.

For families looking to support children or grandchildren — or begin thoughtful conversations about financial responsibility — these gifts can be a simple, meaningful way to teach healthy money habits. Contributions to a 529 plan, custodial account, or savings vehicle can make a long-term impact while staying within the annual exclusion amount.

Help Others Find a Financial Partner They Can Trust

We’re grateful for the feedback we receive from clients. Here’s one that made our day:

"Exceptional in every regard, Eric has the clients interest in planning and developing a financial plan for the future and we know this from having him as our financial planner for over twenty years." ~ Duane S.

This testimonial was provided by a current client of our firm. We did not provide any compensation in exchange for this testimonial. Because the individual is a current client, their experience and opinions may be influenced by their ongoing relationship with our firm. Clients’ experiences may not be representative of all clients, and results are not guaranteed.

December 2025 Insights: A season for family, values, and future planning