I’ve worked with a number of executives through the transition to a public company, and I know how much work it takes to earn this kind of opportunity. The goal now is making sure it’s positioned correctly before the lock-up lifts and the real decisions begin.
What I see outside our practice is a wide gap in how advisors approach this moment. Many manage investments well, but few coordinate tax, estate, and protection planning at the same time—where the real after-tax outcomes are created.
We operate more like a family office. That means your investments, CPA, and attorney are aligned in one conversation, not working in separate silos.
The moment you’re in
The pre-IPO blackout period isn’t idle time—it’s the most valuable planning window you’ll have. Once shares are liquid, many of the best strategies—tax positioning, trust work, charitable planning—either become far more expensive or no longer available. Planning before the market sets the price is where the leverage is.
If any of this sounds familiar, it’s worth a second look:
o You’re sitting in shareholder or internal finance meetings without clear guidance beforehand
o You’re acting as the go-between for your tax, legal, and investment teams
o There isn’t a defined plan already in motion ahead of the IPO
If there’s ever a time to get a second opinion, even with someone you’ve worked with for years, it’s now. The stakes are too high for a fragmented approach.
Questions Worth Asking Your Advisor Today
The following questions are designed to help support thoughtful conversations and help you evaluate how your current strategy aligns with your goals.
Tax strategy
Tax considerations often play a significant role in IPO planning. You may want to discuss:
o How current strategies address potential tax implications
o Whether there are opportunities to manage taxable income over time
o How different approaches—such as charitable giving or specific investment structures—may fit into your broader plan
o Whether your current cash flow strategy allows for flexibility in future planning decisions
Each of these considerations depends on individual circumstances and current tax law.
Investment approach
The transition from concentrated, illiquid equity to more diversified assets can require careful planning. Consider discussing:
o How your broader portfolio is positioned during the transition period
o What role diversification may play once shares are accessible
o How risk management strategies align with your long-term goals
o How proceeds from a liquidity event may be incorporated into your overall financial plan
Protection and estate planning
Changes in net worth can introduce new considerations. Topics to explore may include:
o Whether your liability coverage reflects your current situation
o How insurance solutions may fit into your broader strategy
o Whether estate planning documents are up to date
o How you would like your wealth to support family, charitable, or legacy goals over time
A Final Thought
The questions above are ones I ask every shareholder I work with in the lead-up toa liquidity event. They are not designed to be alarming, they are designed to be clarifying. If your current advisor has already walked you through each of these areas with a concrete plan in place, that is excellent. If not, I would welcome the opportunity to schedule time to discuss how a more coordinated approach might help serve you.
The wealth you have built deserves a strategy that is as sophisticated as the work it took to earn it.
Ready to learn more? Get started by
requesting a complimentary initial consultation whenever it’s convenient for you.
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