Stories Of Impact

Though Allen says his father’s ways never threatened his family’s security, he also saw how his actions sparked disputes with his mother. That’s why as a financial professional today, Allen advocates taking the middle way.

Having found his “calling” as a trainer in planned giving, he is enthusiastic about raising awareness on this area of practice amongst financial advisors. His days as the Head of Training and Education at the Insurance and Financial Practitioners Association of Singapore (IFPAS) include everything from curating courses on planned giving to lecturing on the latest methodologies.

“Many financial advisors today stop at estate planning. Planning giving goes one step ahead,” reveals Allen, “Through holistic financial planning, a professional can help ensure that giving does not compromise the financial security of the family, while also strategising the most effective asset to complete the giving intention with the best possible outcome.”

And with Singapore’s changing demographics – from a greater number of singles to couples without children – more wealth is being directed outside of one’s family. Allen says financial advisors need to keep up with these trends and engage in these changing conversations.

“Planned giving is an important part of the equation,” he says, “Not only does it help deepen your relationships with your clients, helping to grow the number of legacy gifts to benefit our charities could contribute to well-being in our society.”