Spending the Kids' Inheritance: The rise of the SKI phenomenon

A new financial trend known as ‘SKI’ (Spending the Kids’ Inheritance) is gaining momentum, as more parents prioritize personal experiences and retirement enjoyment over leaving large legacies for their children.

In the United Kingdom, research from Standard Life indicates that 15% of parents intend to prioritize spending their savings on travel and activities during retirement rather than preserving wealth for heirs. This shift is exemplified by individuals like Sarah and Geoff Moorhouse, who choose to fund frequent travel and lifestyle upgrades instead of accumulating inheritance.

A similar trend is emerging in the United States. According to Northwestern Mutual’s Planning & Progress survey, the percentage of Americans expecting to receive an inheritance dropped from 25% to 20% within a single year. Conversely, the number of Americans intending to leave an inheritance or financial donation rose from 26% in 2024 to 31% in 2025.