PFS 2.5 hrs F2F Workshop-Keeping it in the family. Planning with Family Investment Compani

Workshop Overview: 

This workshop explores how Family Investment Companies (FICs) are being used in modern financial and estate planning to balance control, succession and long-term wealth management.

Taking a practical, adviser-focused approach, the workshop will look at where FICs sit alongside trusts and other planning structures, the commercial and family dynamics that influence design decisions, and the common scenarios in which planners may encounter or recommend an FIC.

Through practical discussion and examples, attendees will gain a clearer understanding of how FICs operate in real life and how to work effectively with legal and tax professionals to deliver coherent, joined-up planning for clients.

Learning objective

By the end of this workshop:

• By the end of the workshop participants will be able to explain the core purpose and structure of a Family Investment Company and identify when it may be an appropriate planning option within a wider wealth strategy.

• Attendees will gain a practical understanding of how ownership, control and share design can be used to meet succession and governance objectives, as well as the key tax and compliance considerations relevant to advisers.

• The workshop will help planners recognise common opportunities and risks when discussing FICs with clients, understand how FICs compare with trusts and other vehicles, and develop confidence in collaborating with legal and tax specialists to ensure advice is practical, compliant and aligned with clients’ long-term objectives.

Steven Howells-Director-Arcadia Legal.

Steven Howells is a director of Arcadia Legal.

He works with families, advisers and professional partners on trust and estate planning, with a particular focus on practical solutions for complex and vulnerable beneficiary situations.

Known for translating technical trust and tax issues into clear, real-world guidance, he regularly collaborates with financial planners to help shape workable, client-focused outcomes.

Alongside his advisory work, Steven leads strategic and innovative projects within professional services, with a strong interest in improving how legal, tax and financial experts work together. He enjoys sharing practical insights through workshops and training sessions that are grounded in day-to-day experience rather than theory alone.