Aligning Wealth with Values in a Changing World

In this episode of the Cognitive Investments podcast, Matt (Bespoke Co-Founder) and Jacob (Partner & Director of Geopolitical Analysis at Cognitive Investments) explore the critical aspects of aligning wealth with personal values, the evolving landscape of estate planning, the rise of cryptocurrency, and broader geopolitical influences on financial strategies.

Tune into the full episode:

Key Concepts and Timestamps

03:00 Matt’s Career Journey

• Matt shares his professional background, highlighting his path and the experiences that shaped his approach to wealth management.

06:25 The Story of Bespoke Group

• The founding and evolution of Bespoke Group, emphasizing the importance of tailor-made financial services.

15:00 How to Own VS Where to Own VS What to Own

• Discussion on different aspects of ownership, focusing on strategic decision-making in wealth management.

16:55 How Estate Planning is an Act of Sovereignty

• Framing estate planning as an exercise in personal sovereignty, offering control over one’s financial legacy.

20:00 The Flaws of Wills and Probate

• Critique of traditional wills and probate processes, discussing common pitfalls and inefficiencies. Jacob shares a personal anecdote about the wills his late mother and father left behind.

21:50 Privatizing the Process

• Why privatized methods to streamline estate management should not be overlooked.

25:45 Understand the Tax Law

• Tax news and updates. Stay abreast to changes of the tax law that will affect current and future estate planning structures.

31:21 What Type of Impact Do You Want Your Wealth to Have?

• Exploring the desired impact of wealth on future generations and society, stressing thoughtful planning.

37:54 Why Matt Hates the Word Estate Planning

• Matt explains his aversion to the term “estate planning” and proposes a more holistic approach.

40:00 A Thoughtful Estate Plan is an Act of Love

• Emphasizing that estate planning is an act of love and responsibility towards one’s family and legacy.

42:50 Where the Future of Money is Headed

• Insight into the future of money, particularly the evolution of cryptocurrency and its implications.

46:40 Impact of Bitcoin’s Evolution

• Discussion on how Bitcoin has emerged as a robust form of money and its role in modern financial systems.

54:02 Widening Delta Between Value of Assets and Value of Our Currency

• Reflecting on the growing disparity between asset values and currency value, and its implications for financial planning.

Matt and Jacob underscore that estate planning and financial management are more than just technical exercises; they are about holistic life optimization and aligning financial strategies with personal values. They advocate for proactive and dynamic estate planning to ensure long-term well-being and effective wealth management.