Last week, Genome Advisory had the pleasure of attending and presenting at Prestel and Partner’s Family Office Forum at the Harvard Club in New York City. The two-day event attracted over c. 150 family offices and UHNW individuals: an eclectic mix of international, multi-generational families. Genome Advisory introduced genomics to the Family Office during our session "Genomics and Its Impact on Families of Wealth".

Like AI, genomics is disruptive technology with profound personal and professional implications, and uniquely so for families and systems of wealth. While we are inundated on a daily basis about dramatic promises of genomics for the future, especially as they relate to eradication of malignant disease, creation of designer babies and extreme longevity, many fail to appreciate the extent to which we have already invited genomics into our lives.

It is the best of human nature to courageously venture into new worlds. But for every advance, there must be counterbalance to neutralize challenges. The finite resources of our new world of longevity can become infinite if all ages collaborate to grow wisdom, experience and compassion beyond years.

Is “next-gen” becoming a buzz word in conversations about wealth? While it is a given that engaging next generation is necessary for families of wealth to thrive, what does that mean and how do we optimize it? Might next-gen reflect, more than age, a state of mind? Perhaps more than anything, might it reflect openness to next-gen ideas? Next-gen are the stewards of our future. We must, with great humbleness, inspire them to help us find answers to existential global crises that confront us all.

Genomics technologies offer unprecedented potential to protect our families from disease and to enhance well-being. Thought leaders must connect in ongoing dialogue with the public to address ethical, moral, privacy, societal, legal and behavioral consequences of genomics applications. Scientists require our assistance. Unprecedented challenge requires unique partnership.