Among other findings, the survey sheds light on how the pandemic has affected attitudes to impact investment and philanthropy.

A survey of ultra-high net worth people showed that the large majority think they have a responsibility to use their money to solve real-world global problems, such as protecting the environment or coping with the impact of a future pandemic. 

The findings come from Taylor Wessing’s World Shaping Wealth study, which is based on the views of UHNW individuals (defined as those with at least $100 million each) and the intermediaries who manage their wealth. 

Some 73 per cent of respondents want to use their wealth to mitigate the impact of a future pandemic – highlighting how Covid-19 has affected attitudes. Some 66 per cent of them want to use their resources to invest in a net zero policy on C02 emissions; 65 per cent think it is important to use their wealth to finance a recovery from the pandemic.

The findings from the law firm are an example of how the trend of responsible investment has become an almost rock-solid consensus, although not without controversy. Yesterday, this news service announced the winners of its inaugural Wealth For Good awards programme.

In other findings from the Taylor Wessing study, 74 per cent say reputational issues are a challenge for protecting wealth; 66 per cent make investments that follow environmental, social and governance criteria. Half (50 per cent) said creating a legacy they will be remembered for is the most important factor affecting for how they use their wealth. 

On average, more than three-quarters (77 per cent) see passing wealth to a charity, foundation trusts and philanthropic organisations as a high priority. 

Surprisingly, 23 per cent of such UHNW individuals focus succession planning on their family, the Taylor Wessing study found.