Tom Ruggie: What Financial Advisors Should Know About Collectibles
Feb 18, 2025
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Tom Ruggie, Founder and CEO of Destiny Family Office, shares insights on the growing importance of collectibles in high net worth portfolios. He discusses how financial advisors can enhance client value by including collection management in comprehensive financial planning. Ruggie dives into the crucial aspects of valuation, insurance, and tax implications, urging advisors to adopt a holistic approach. Personal anecdotes about chasing collectibles, like the elusive 1952 Topps baseball card set, highlight the passion and challenges of collectors, bringing an emotional dimension to asset management.
Financial advisors must adapt to the growing asset class of collectibles by providing valuation, documentation, and insurance guidance to clients.
Effective estate planning for collectibles is essential to prevent family disputes and ensure a smooth transition of these valuable assets to heirs.
Deep dives
The Rise of Collectibles as an Investment Asset Class
Collectibles have increasingly transitioned into a recognized asset class, especially among high net worth individuals. Statistics show that 78% of ultra-high net worth individuals own some type of collectible, ranging from art to sports memorabilia. Market dynamics have changed, with numerous auction houses facilitating various collectible auctions, reflecting the growing interest in these assets. This shift necessitates financial advisors to adapt their practices and provide guidance on managing and valuing collectibles as part of a comprehensive financial strategy.
Key Considerations for Financial Advisors
Financial advisors play a crucial role in helping clients manage their collectibles by addressing key areas such as valuation, documentation, insurance, and estate planning. Many collectors have not had their collections appraised or discussed their value with advisors, highlighting a gap where advisors can offer significant value. Guidelines and tools, such as scorecards for organizing collections, can help advisors facilitate these conversations effectively. Understanding the intricacies of insurance for collectibles is also essential, as specialized insurers often provide better options than traditional homeowner's insurance.
The Importance of Estate Planning and Legacy Management
Estate planning for collectibles is critical to avoid family disputes and ensure a smooth transition of assets to heirs. Uncertainties about the value and authenticity of collectibles can lead to serious disagreements among beneficiaries, making proactive planning essential. For many collectors, it is vital to have clear documentation and communication regarding their collections, as this can prevent conflicts later on. Emphasizing the significance of a well-maintained estate plan not only protects the collector's legacy but also enhances the advisor-client relationship.
The CEO of Destiny Family Office discusses practical steps to help your clients value, protect, and pass on their collections. Host: Steve Sanduski, CFP.
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