Inter vivos transfers based on affection for wealth distribution planning in Malaysia

Abstract

Inter vivos in the context of wealth and estate planning can be generally defined as a transfer that takes place between the livings. Parents are motivated to transfer for altruisme and exchange. In this context, this study aims to explore another potential motives of inter vivos, which is "affection. Data is collected through semi-structured interviews with inter vivos experts who have published articles in this area. The interview is encoded and thematic analysis is carried out to classify themes and subthemes that exist in the inter vivos transfers. This study discovers four main themes, which indicate that inter vivos transfers based on affection can be enlightened by the relationship between parents and children, responsibility for children, types of inter vivos, and effects to other heirs. Relationship between parents and children can be explained as parents transfer their wealth to the closest children, children who care for them and to family members only. Parents also are responsible to protect their children after they die and assist them who are in need. Types of inter vivos are considered as boundless inter vivos and without any material return. Inter vivos based on affection also aims not to abuse other heirs.