Redefining Risk in International Giving: What Wealth Advisors Need to Know
For many wealth advisors, international philanthropy sits at the intersection of generosity and complexity. Clients are increasingly drawn to global causes—whether responding to humanitarian crises, locally led initiatives abroad, or extending the reach of their long-standing charitable passions. Yet when giving crosses borders, it often raises a practical question: How can you help clients give internationally while still protecting them from unnecessary regulatory, financial, and reputational risk?
The good news is risk in international giving doesn’t have to be a deterrent. With the right partner and structure, cross-border giving can become an effective, fulfilling part of a client’s overall giving strategy.
Why international giving feels risky
Cross-border philanthropy has grown significantly in recent years, driven by global connectivity and heightened awareness of international needs. But unlike domestic charitable giving, international grants introduce layers of complexity that advisors must help clients navigate thoughtfully.
Common concerns include:
Regulatory and compliance requirements that vary by country
The risk of fraud or misuse of funds
Anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism considerations
Tax and reporting implications
Limited visibility into how funds are ultimately used
Intentional structure
Rather than sending funds directly, your clients may benefit from working through an intermediary designed specifically for international grantmaking such as a TrustBridge Global Foundation Fund.
With a Foundation Fund, your clients canmaximize their tax benefits, grow their charitable assets over time, and streamline their giving.
Your partner in global philanthropy
As a trusted partner to financial and wealth advisors, TrustBridge Global allows assets placed in a Foundation Fund to remain under your management, so you can continue stewarding your client’s investments while expanding the scope of their philanthropy. When grants are sent internationally, we handle the due diligence, compliance, and risk management—removing the operational and reputational burdens that often make cross-border giving feel daunting.
With grantmaking experience across more than 100 countries and a growing network of affiliates stewarding more than $9 billion in combined assets, we offer a truly global donor-advised fund—designed for today’s complex philanthropic landscape. By recommending TrustBridge Global, you provide clients with a seamless path to international giving while positioning yourself at the forefront of innovative giving solutions that align wealth, values, and global impact.