What is estate planning and why might I need it?

Estate planning traditionally focuses on tax and inheritance matters, using legal instruments such as marriage contracts, gifts, wills, and more recently, powers of attorney. While these remain central, estate planning increasingly serves as a gateway to broader conversations about personal and family goals. Your estate planner becomes a trusted adviser: someone who supports you through key life stages and, in many cases, across generations. This relationship often extends beyond legal or tax optimization, offering guidance tailored to your evolving needs.

When should I start estate planning?

The best time to start is as early as possible. Estate planning is relevant at every major milestone: choosing a marital regime, purchasing property, launching a business, or building an investment portfolio. Early engagement allows time to build a relationship of trust and to develop long-term, holistic strategies. Our estate planners work closely with private bankers and financial experts to ensure your wealth management remains aligned with your personal objectives.

Can estate planning help in cross-border situations?

Certainly. Our estate planning team has deep expertise in both national and international wealth structuring. We take a comprehensive view of your situation and adapt your plan as life circumstances change, for example, if a child relocates abroad or you acquire property in another country. Thanks to our international network, we can guide you through cross-border legal and tax complexities, ensuring your estate is structured efficiently and in line with your goals.

What are clients' main objectives in estate planning?

Legal certainty is a top priority for many clients. While tax efficiency remains important, there is growing emphasis on long-term sustainability and stability. A well-structured and well-documented estate helps prevent future disputes, including with tax authorities, and provides peace of mind. Younger generations also value transparency and clarity. A structured estate plan supports intergenerational understanding and continuity.

What role does a power of attorney play in estate planning?

A power of attorney (often referred to as a health care proxy) is a legal tool that allows you to appoint someone to manage your financial or personal affairs if you become unable to do so yourself. This authority can cover a wide range of responsibilities, including the ability to make donations on your behalf.

Does Degroof Petercam have expertise in other related areas?

Yes, we offer the expertise to support your wealth planning: Philanthropy: whether you're considering making a donation or establishing your own foundation, we provide guidance from initial concept through to implementation, in partnership with the Degroof Petercam Foundation.

What is Private Equity?

Private Equity (PE) refers to investments that are not traded on regulated markets like stock exchanges. Essentially, PE involves investing in private, unlisted companies as opposed to public, listed ones. PE serves as an alternative source of funding for private companies. This broad term encompasses investments in a company's equity and its derivatives, as well as various forms of private debt. Private equity funds provide capital throughout a company's life cycle, from the early stages of a business idea to its maturity. Fund managers often specialize in niches such as venture capital, growth or development capital, buyouts (investing in established companies with proven strategies and cash flows), secondaries (acquiring stakes in ongoing PE funds), and private debt. PE investments are not limited to large companies; firms of any size can be targets. Some funds take minority stakes, while others aim for majority control. Degroof Petercam, for instance, focuses primarily on buy-out funds due to the superior risk-return profile.

Why invest in Private Equity?

The primary reason to invest in PE funds is the potential for superior returns compared to listed equities. PE investments also diversify your portfolio by giving you access to the unlisted segment of the economy. Additionally, investing in a PE fund means leveraging the expertise of the fund manager, who adds value to portfolio companies through strategic input and management decisions. This "proximity" to the investment is a potential advantage, offering a tangible connection to the real economy. Investors may even have opportunities to meet executives or visit the companies in which the PE fund invests.

What could hold you back from investing in private equity?

Returns are not guaranteed, and past performance is only an indication of potential future results. PE investments are long-term and illiquid, requiring a substantial minimum investment, often €250,000 per investment. You need to consult with your private banker to determine if such investments suit your profile and to plan your budget accordingly. It is nearly impossible to resell a PE commitment to third parties. Typically, a PE fund investment is a "buyand hold" commitment. Investing in Private Equity Funds comes with risks, including: Partial or total loss of invested capital Long term investment Illiquidity and restrictions on investment transfer Complex tax structures and potential delays in tax returns Limited information on valuations and prices Higher fees Concentration risk

What makes Private Equity an attractive asset class?

The global private equity market is estimated at several trillion $, with the majority of the investments in North America. At any single point in time, it is estimated that 3 to 4 thousand private equity funds are raising commitments. Degroof Petercam seeks to select the best among them. Investing in PE can be done directly or through PE funds. Entrepreneurs are direct PE investors because they hold unlisted shares in their companies. However, creating a direct PE portfolio is challenging due to the lack of publicly available financial and operational data on unlisted companies. PE funds, managed by professional teams, raise capital from institutional and private investors to follow specific investment strategies and acquire stakes in various unlisted companies. These professionals add value to the management and strategy of portfolio companies. As an investor in PE funds, you benefit from diversified investments across multiple unlisted companies and the expertise of fund managers. The success of a PE fund manager is determined by their knowledge and results, applying a clear investment strategy that targets specific regions, sectors, and company sizes. At the launch of a fund, investors do not need to transfer the entire capital commitment upfront. Payments are made over time through capital calls, which are spread according to investment needs. Some funds limit capital calls to once per year, using bridging loans to finance acquisitions temporarily.

What are the benefits of a Lombard credit compared to traditional loans?

A loan secured by your investments, such as a Lombard credit, offers more flexibility than traditional loans. The main advantage is that you can quickly access liquidity without having to sell your investments, allowing you to continue benefiting from the potential appreciation of your assets. Additionally, this type of loan often offers flexible repayment options and the possibility of early repayment without penalty. Unlike traditional loans, which often have a specific collateral requirement such as real estate, a Lombard credit is based on the value of your securities portfolio, making it a more flexible financing instrument.

For what types of financing is a Lombard credit a good idea?

A Lombard credit is ideal for obtaining liquidity without having to sell your existing investment portfolio. It can be used for various purposes, such as financing real estate, investing in businesses, or seizing other investment opportunities.

Who is wealth management for?

Wealth management is aimed at affluent individuals and families seeking professional support for managing their wealth. This includes clients who value personalized investment strategies, risk management, and achieving financial goals without being involved in daily investment decisions. Degroof Petercam offers wealth management for clients who need tailored solutions, taking into account their specific financial situation, investment goals, and risk profile.

From what amount can you start wealth management?

There is no fixed amount required to start with wealth management. At Degroof Petercam, we differentiate our services so that you can choose the management mandate that best suits your needs and budget: Core strategy: No fixed amount Conviction Mandate: Starting from €500,000 Personalized: Starting from €2.5 million Advisory Partner: Starting from €2.5 million

Why should I choose discretionary management instead of investing myself?

Discretionary management is convenient for those who want active management by experts, while self-investing offers more control but requires more time and knowledge. It is ideal for clients who don’t want to be involved daily but want to benefit from market opportunities.

What is the difference between discretionary and advisory wealth management?

Discretionary wealth management means that the portfolio manager makes investment decisions independently, without prior approval from the client, whereas in advisory management, the client makes decisions based on advice.

How are the costs for wealth management calculated?

At Degroof Petercam, the costs for wealth management are transparent and bundled into a single "ALL IN" fee. This fee includes all costs and taxes and is clearly stated in your management reports, so you always have insight into the cost structure.

Why are transparency and control important in managing my investment portfolio, and how does Degroof Petercam facilitate this?

Transparency and control are crucial for effective portfolio management, as they provide full insight into costs, risks, and the performance of your investments. Degroof Petercam offers an "ALL IN" fee that clearly reflects all costs and taxes, ensuring you know exactly what you are paying without hidden fees. You also gain access to the "My Degroof Petercam" app, where you can monitor your investments at any time and centrally manage all your documents. The app also provides access to expert insights. Should you become a client, you will be assigned a personal contact who keeps you regularly informed of strategic decisions and responds actively to market conditions to ensure your investment strategy remains aligned with your goals.

How does Degroof Petercam ensure that my investment portfolio remains aligned with my changing needs while also considering market volatility and sustainability requirements?

Degroof Petercam continuously adjusts your portfolio to respond to changing market conditions and your personal needs. Your private banker and portfolio manager regularly evaluate and optimize your investment strategy to ensure it remains aligned with your goals, even during times of market volatility. Additionally, Degroof Petercam offers investment options that meet ESG criteria, so you can achieve financial returns while also making a sustainable and responsible impact.

How does a Lombard credit work?

A Lombard loan is a credit where your securities portfolio serves as collateral. The value of your securities determines how much you can borrow, and the loan can be used flexibly for various financing purposes, such as real estate or new investments. You remain the owner of the securities and benefit from potential appreciation while gaining access to additional liquidity without having to sell your assets. Degroof Petercam offers flexible repayment options and the possibility of early repayment without penalty, depending on the credit terms.

How is the interest rate on a Lombard loan determined?

The interest rate on a Lombard loan is determined based on market conditions, the risk profile of the underlying assets, and the loan terms. Your private banker can help you understand the costs and select the most favorable credit option.

Is investing in private equity right for me?

Investing in private equity is suitable for investors with a higher risk profile who are willing to lock in their capital for a longer period. It offers the potential for high returns but also requires patience, capital, and a good risk tolerance.

What is the minimum investment amount required to participate in a private equity fund through Degroof Petercam?

The minimum investment amount for participating in private equity through Degroof Petercam can vary depending on the specific fund and strategy chosen (often €250,000 per investment). Generally, this amount is higher than for traditional investment options due to the nature and risks of private equity. This is an important consideration for investors looking to take advantage of the benefits of this asset class.

What types of private equity investments exist?

The following types of private equity investments can be distinguished: Venture Capital (VC): Investments in start-ups and young companies with high growth potential, but also high risk. Growth Capital: Investments in more mature companies that need capital to continue growing or expanding, without taking full control of the company. Leveraged Buyouts (LBO): Acquiring a company using a combination of equity and borrowed funds. Often, a majority stake in the company is obtained. Distressed Private Equity: Investments in companies experiencing financial difficulties, with the aim of restructuring and making them profitable again. Mezzanine Financing: A hybrid form of financing that combines features of both equity and debt, often used in acquisitions.

What exclusive investment opportunities does private equity through Degroof Petercam offer that are not available on public markets?

Degroof Petercam provides access to unique investment opportunities in private equity, including stakes in promising non-public companies and funds that are often beyond the reach of public markets, enabling you to benefit from growth opportunities that would otherwise be difficult to access.

How does private equity contribute to the diversification of my portfolio, and what benefits does this offer in terms of risk diversification?

Private equity investments offer diversification by providing exposure to non-public companies that are less correlated with traditional equity and bond markets. Thus, private equity investments can help spread the overall risk profile of your portfolio. Adding private equity to a portfolio can reduce volatility and provide stability during market fluctuations, as these assets are less subject to daily movements in public markets.

How can I finance larger projects without selling my investments?

You can finance larger projects by using your investment portfolio as collateral for a loan, such as a Lombard loan. This type of loan enables you to quickly access the liquidity needed for investments such as real estate, business shares, or other large expenses, without having to sell your existing investments. In this way, you can continue benefiting from the potential appreciation of your investments while obtaining financing for new projects.

What are the main Characteristics of unlisted investing?

Investments in PE funds are long-term and illiquid. Committed capital is used gradually over several years, aligning the interests of fund managers and investors. Valuation typically occurs quarterly or annually. A PE fund's duration averages 10 years, with capital calls usually within the first five years. Exits, or the sale of portfolio shares, also occur gradually, distributing returns to investors. While early exits may happen within the first few years, the fund generally aims to sell all investments within ten years of the initial capital calls. Fund rules may allow for a one- or two-year extension. As an investor, you commit to the entire investment cycle and cannot withdraw your commitment without facing penalties, which could include selling your position at a steep discount. Transfers of your position require prior approval from the fund manager. The timing and amount of capital calls are uncertain. During the investment period (generally the first five years) a succession of capital calls will take place, and you must be able to fund a significant portion (sometimes 20% or more) of your commitment at short notice. It is crucial to plan your budget and schedule with your private banker in advance.

Why do banks ask a copy of my identity card?

Well, basically because it is a legal requirement. According to European and Belgian laws, and in particular the law to prevent money-laundering and terrorism financing, all financial service providers in the large sense (i.e.: banks, insurance companies, accountants and so forth) are indeed under the obligation of ‘knowing their customers'. One of the consequences of these regulations is that service providers are required to establish the identity of their clients. KYC is a very strict regulation. If a financial institution is not in possession of accurate data, it is obliged to take appropriate measures, which means: blocking the account and even ending the relationship with the customer if necessary. It is therefore of the upmost importance that the necessary data are provided as quickly as possible. Fortunately, new technology can streamline the process: by means of the web banking application, you can upload the data stored on the microchip of your electronic ID yourself. However, if you prefer to send us a printed copy of your microchip data, you are welcome do so as well.

After five false attempts, my digipass has been blocked. What should I do?

If your pin code has been blocked, please contact our Digital Care Service: By phone: 0800 20 216 (or +32 2 662 85 55 if you are outside Belgium) By email: digitalcare@degroofpetercam.com From Monday to Friday: 8am – 6pm For safety reasons, we block your My Degroof Petercam profile. This means that you will no longer have access to the My Degroof Petercam app via your smartphone or PC.

My digipass (box) is broken or the battery is dead. How do I order a new one?

Effective immediately, Degroof Petercam is working with the ‘Itsme’ app to replace our ‘digipass’. You now have to log into your My Degroof Petercam account with ‘Itsme’. If you don’t have ‘Itsme’ on your smartphone yet, you need to install the app first. You can find out how here. Then, as soon as you have created your ‘Itsme’ account, register at My Degroof Petercam. You can also contact our Digital Care Team directly: By phone: 0800 20 216 (or +32 2 662 85 55 if you are outside Belgium) By email: digitalcare@degroofpetercam.com From Monday to Friday: 8am – 6pm

How do I change my correspondence address?

If you wish to change your address, you must submit recent (no more than 1 year old) documentation of your new address to your relationship manager. An example of a proof of legal address is a copy of your identity card or the header of your tax return.

How do I change my e-mail address?

You can view your email address in the settings of your account in My Degroof Petercam. If you want to change your e-mail address, please contact our Digital Care Team or your relationship manager: By phone: 0800 20 216 (or +32 2 662 85 55 if you are outside Belgium) By email: digitalcare@degroofpetercam.com From Monday to Friday: 8am – 6pm

How can I request access, register for and create an account on My Degroof Petercam?

If you do not yet have access to My Degroof Petercam, you can request it on our login page via ‘Itsme’ by clicking on ‘request access’ in the top right corner. After 24 hours your access will be active and you will be able to log in with ‘Itsme’ on My Degroof Petercam. If you have any questions about requesting access to My Degroof Petercam, please contact our Digital Care Team at: By phone: 0800 20 216 (or +32 2 662 85 55 if you are outside Belgium) By email: digitalcare@degroofpetercam.com From Monday to Friday: 8am – 6pm

I can no longer log into my My Degroof Petercam account with the Digipass. What do I need to do?

If you encounter problems with your Digipass, please do not hesitate to contact our Digital Care Team at: By phone: 0800 20 216 (or +32 2 662 85 55 if you are outside Belgium) By email: digitalcare@degroofpetercam.com From Monday to Friday: 8am – 6pm

‘Itsme’ is a secure, easy-to-use, environmentally friendly app that is used by the government and many other (financial) institutions to identify themselves. Signing up and logging in to My Degroof Petercam is now managed via ‘Itsme’ and no longer with the digipass. ‘Itsme’ is a secure, easy-to-use, environmentally friendly app on your smartphone that acts as your digital ID. ‘Itsme’ is used by the government and many other financial institutions, among other entities, to sign documents and identify themselves.

I created a My Degroof Petercam account through the ‘Itsme’ app. When can I log in or register?

When you have requested access to My Degroof Petercam via ‘Itsme’, it takes 24 hours before you have access or can log in with ‘Itsme’ to My Degroof Petercam. If you have problems logging on, please contact our Digital Care Team: By phone: 0800 20 216 (or +32 2 662 85 55 if you are outside Belgium) By email: digitalcare@degroofpetercam.com From Monday to Friday: 8am – 6pm

How do I log in via ‘Itsme’?

If you have not yet started using ‘Itsme’, you first need to download and set up the app. More information can be found here. Do you already use My Degroof Petercam? Then you can log in directly with your ‘Itsme’. Are you not yet a user of My Degroof Petercam? The first step is to request access at the top right of the login page. After 24 hours your access will be active and you will be able to log in with ‘Itsme’ on My Degroof Petercam. If you encounter any problems, please do not hesitate to contact our Digital Care Team at: By phone: 0800 20 216 (or +32 2 662 85 55 if you are outside Belgium) By email: digitalcare@degroofpetercam.com From Monday to Friday: 8am – 6pm

I have a technical problem with ‘Itsme’. Who can I contact?

Please contact ‘Itsme’ customer service if you have a problem with the app. If you have a problem logging on to My Degroof Petercam via our website or app, you can contact our Digital Care Team at: By phone: 0800 20 216 (or +32 2 662 85 55 if you are outside Belgium) By email: digitalcare@degroofpetercam.com From Monday to Friday: 8am – 6pm

Will I receive a confirmation e-mail after I create my My Degroof Petercam account via the ‘Itsme’ app?

If you are a new customer or have just opened a new account, you will receive an email once your account has been opened. From that moment on, you can log in with your ‘Itsme’ app. If you are already a client and have requested access to My Degroof Petercam on our website, you will not receive a confirmation e-mail. If you have questions or problems, please contact our Digital Care Team: By phone: 0800 20 216 (or +32 2 662 85 55 if you are outside Belgium) By email: digitalcare@degroofpetercam.com From Monday to Friday: 8am – 6pm

Do I get immediate access to My Degroof Petercam when I create an account via the ‘Itsme’ app?

When you have requested access to My Degroof Petercam via ‘Itsme’, it takes 24 hours before you have access or can log in with ‘Itsme’ to My Degroof Petercam. If you have problems accessing the site or logging in, please contact our Digital Care Team: By phone: 0800 20 216 (or +32 2 662 85 55 if you are outside Belgium) By email: digitalcare@degroofpetercam.com From Monday to Friday: 8am – 6pm

Do I see the performances of my portfolios in real-time?

No. What you see are the performances from the day before.

What is discrete mode?

Discrete mode allows you to hide confidential information, such as the current value of your portfolios. As long as you keep your finger on the ‘eye’, you will be able to see this confidential information. Once you let go, the app automatically turns into discrete mode.

How to generate a digicode?

Your digipass is black: Activate the digipass by pressing ◀ Select the IDENTIFICATION mode by pressing on "I" Enter your pin code and validate it by pressing on ◀ An 8-digit number will appear on your screen. You successfully generated a digicode Your digipass is white: Activate your digipass by pressing OK during a couple of seconds. The screen of your digipass will light up and the message WELCOME will appear, followed by 1. LOGIN. Select the LOGIN mode by pressing OK. Enter your pin code and validate it by pressing OK. An 8-digit number will appear on your screen. You successfully generated a digicode.

How can I transfer money to my My Degroof Petercam?

Please contact your account manager directly if you have any questions concerning transfers.

What is estate planning and why might I need it?

Estate planning traditionally focuses on tax and inheritance matters, using legal instruments such as marriage contracts, gifts, wills, and more recently, powers of attorney. While these remain central, estate planning increasingly serves as a gateway to broader conversations about personal and family goals. Your estate planner becomes a trusted adviser: someone who supports you through key life stages and, in many cases, across generations. This relationship often extends beyond legal or tax optimization, offering guidance tailored to your evolving needs.

When should I start estate planning?

The best time to start is as early as possible. Estate planning is relevant at every major milestone: choosing a marital regime, purchasing property, launching a business, or building an investment portfolio. Early engagement allows time to build a relationship of trust and to develop long-term, holistic strategies. Our estate planners work closely with private bankers and financial experts to ensure your wealth management remains aligned with your personal objectives.

Can estate planning help in cross-border situations?

Certainly. Our estate planning team has deep expertise in both national and international wealth structuring. We take a comprehensive view of your situation and adapt your plan as life circumstances change, for example, if a child relocates abroad or you acquire property in another country. Thanks to our international network, we can guide you through cross-border legal and tax complexities, ensuring your estate is structured efficiently and in line with your goals.

What are clients' main objectives in estate planning?

Legal certainty is a top priority for many clients. While tax efficiency remains important, there is growing emphasis on long-term sustainability and stability. A well-structured and well-documented estate helps prevent future disputes, including with tax authorities, and provides peace of mind. Younger generations also value transparency and clarity. A structured estate plan supports intergenerational understanding and continuity.

What role does a power of attorney play in estate planning?

A power of attorney (often referred to as a health care proxy) is a legal tool that allows you to appoint someone to manage your financial or personal affairs if you become unable to do so yourself. This authority can cover a wide range of responsibilities, including the ability to make donations on your behalf.

Does Degroof Petercam have expertise in other related areas?

Yes, we offer the expertise to support your wealth planning: Philanthropy: whether you're considering making a donation or establishing your own foundation, we provide guidance from initial concept through to implementation, in partnership with the Degroof Petercam Foundation.

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