Have you ever wondered what the ultra-wealthy do with their money when the world feels like it’s teetering on the edge of uncertainty? I have, and it’s fascinating to see how the richest families navigate turbulent times. According to recent insights from a global survey, billionaire families are making bold moves in 2025, pouring their wealth into U.S. stocks and the American economy despite whispers of a “sell America” trend. It’s a strategy that raises eyebrows, but when you dig deeper, it starts to make sense.
The Confidence of Wealthy Families in U.S. Markets
In a world of trade wars, ballooning national debt, and global uncertainty, you’d think the ultra-rich would be running for the hills—or at least diversifying their portfolios far beyond U.S. borders. Yet, a recent survey of 317 global family offices reveals a different story. These private investment firms, managing billions for the world’s wealthiest families, are doubling down on the U.S. economy. With an average net worth of $2.7 billion, these families aren’t just dabbling—they’re all in.
Why the confidence? For one, the U.S. market has a track record of outperformance that’s hard to ignore. Even with recent volatility, it remains a beacon of stability compared to other regions. As one wealth advisor put it, “In times of chaos, you stick with what you know.” And for American family offices, that means keeping their money close to home.
A Strong Home Bias in Investments
The numbers tell a compelling story. In early 2025, U.S. family offices had 86% of their portfolios parked in North America, a significant jump from 74% just five years ago. No other region comes close to this level of home bias. Even international family offices, particularly those in Latin America, are funneling up to 64% of their assets into North American markets. Only 12% of surveyed offices plan to scale back on North America over the next five years, while 32% are ready to increase their stakes.
“You invest in what you understand—regions and companies you know best.”
– Wealth management expert
This trend isn’t just about familiarity. The U.S. offers deep, liquid markets and a culture of innovation that’s tough to beat. From tech giants to cutting-edge startups, the opportunities feel endless. Personally, I find it intriguing how these families balance gut instinct with hard data—something we could all learn from when managing our own finances.
Why Stocks Are the Go-To Choice
Stocks are stealing the spotlight in 2025, and family offices are leading the charge. Globally, these firms boosted their allocation to developed market equities (mostly U.S. stocks) from 24% to 26% last year, with plans to push it to 29% this year. American family offices are even more aggressive, planning to increase their stock exposure from 28% to 32%. Why the enthusiasm? It’s all about access to big themes like artificial intelligence, energy innovation, and healthcare breakthroughs.
Public markets offer something private investments can’t always match: speed. With market volatility creating opportunities, stocks allow wealthy families to move quickly. As one expert noted, “The U.S. has the deepest, most reliable markets in the world.” That reliability is a magnet for investors who want to capitalize on trends without getting bogged down in illiquid assets.
- AI and tech: Family offices see massive potential in companies driving artificial intelligence and automation.
- Energy innovation: Investments in renewable energy and power generation are gaining traction.
- Healthcare: Advances in medical technology are a top priority for long-term growth.
Stepping Back from Private Equity
Here’s where things get interesting. After years of piling into private equity, family offices are hitting the brakes. In 2023, private equity made up 22% of their portfolios, but last year, they trimmed it by 1%, and they’re planning to cut another 3% in 2025. U.S. family offices are even more decisive, slashing their private equity allocation by 8% from a hefty 35%.
Does this mean private equity is out of favor? Not quite. Many families are simply waiting for the right moment to cash out on existing investments. Exits have been delayed, and rather than doubling down, they’re getting picky. “They’re waiting for the perfect deal,” one advisor shared. “When they find it, they go all in.”
“Private equity is still a major player, but selectivity is the name of the game now.”
– Investment strategist
Looking ahead, more than a third of family offices plan to ramp up direct private equity investments over the next five years. It’s a sign they’re not abandoning the space—they’re just playing it smarter.
Real Estate: A Mixed Bag of Opportunities
Real estate is another area where family offices are making strategic shifts. U.S. family offices are boosting their real estate allocations by 8%, bringing their total to 18%, while international offices are only nudging theirs up by 1%. This difference comes down to background. Families who built their wealth in real estate see market dips as a chance to scale back, while others view them as buying opportunities.
“If you’re not a real estate family, you’re probably eyeing distressed properties right now,” one wealth manager observed. It’s a classic case of perspective shaping strategy. Personally, I think this opportunistic approach is a reminder that timing is everything in investing—whether you’re a billionaire or just starting out.
| Investment Type | U.S. Family Offices (%) | Global Family Offices (%) |
| Stocks | 32 | 29 |
| Private Equity | 27 | 18 |
| Real Estate | 18 | 11 |
What’s Driving These Choices?
So, what’s the bigger picture here? Family offices aren’t just throwing darts at a board. Their moves are driven by a mix of data, intuition, and a keen eye for trends. The U.S. economy, despite its challenges, remains a powerhouse of innovation and opportunity. From AI breakthroughs to renewable energy, the themes these families are betting on aren’t just buzzwords—they’re the future.
But it’s not all rosy. Trade war fears and rising debt are real concerns, and some investors are hedging their bets by looking to Asia-Pacific, particularly India’s booming tech scene. Still, the overwhelming confidence in U.S. markets suggests a belief that America will weather the storm. As one advisor put it, “The U.S. has a way of coming out on top.”
Lessons for Everyday Investors
Okay, so most of us aren’t managing billion-dollar portfolios, but there’s something to learn from these ultra-wealthy families. First, they’re not afraid to lean into what they know best. Whether it’s stocks, real estate, or a specific industry, sticking to your strengths can pay off. Second, they’re adaptable—cutting back on private equity when exits stall shows they’re not married to any one strategy.
- Know your market: Invest in industries or regions you understand deeply.
- Stay flexible: Be ready to pivot when market conditions shift.
- Seize opportunities: Volatility can be a chance to buy low, especially in real estate or stocks.
Perhaps the most interesting takeaway is their long-term optimism. Despite short-term cuts in private equity, many family offices are planning to dive back in over the next five years. It’s a reminder that wealth-building isn’t about quick wins—it’s about playing the long game.
As I reflect on these trends, I can’t help but admire the balance of caution and courage these families display. They’re not immune to market jitters, but they’re not paralyzed by them either. Maybe that’s the real secret to their success: knowing when to hold steady and when to make a bold move. What do you think—could you apply a bit of that billionaire mindset to your own investments?
