Clients Want Philanthropic Conversations

  • Nearly all advisors (99%) and most affluent clients (88%) believe it is important to discuss philanthropy.
  • 96% of advisors now believe discussing philanthropy is part of their professional or ethical obligation, up dramatically from 62% in 2018.
  • 75% of affluent clients say they are more likely to choose an advisor who is knowledgeable about philanthropy.

Affluent Clients are Highly Engaged in Giving and Impact

  • 81% of affluent households gave to charity in 2024, and gave an average of $33,219 annually. 
  • 93% of affluent donors say they give when they believe their gift can make a difference. 
  • 87% of affluent individuals report that charitable giving is personally fulfilling.

Philanthropy Strengthens Client Relationships & Business Growth

  • 90% of advisors say philanthropic conversations are good for business, up from 78% in 2018. 
  • 92% of advisors say discussing philanthropy helps establish new client relationships, while 88% say it deepens existing relationships. 
  • 95% of advisors say philanthropy helps build relationships with clients’ extended families and next generations. 

DAFs are Mainstream Giving Vehicles 

  • DAFs are now the fastest-growing charitable giving vehicle in the United States, with 3.56 million accounts holding $326 billion in assets. 
  • 51% of affluent clients now use donor advised funds, making them the most commonly used structured giving vehicle. 
  • 84% of clients who discuss philanthropy with advisors use at least one structured giving vehicle, compared with just 53% in 2018. 

Data sources include: