5 Money Moves Trump Made Using Generational Wealth That You Can Too
Written by
Tobi Opeyemi Amure
Edited by
Rebekah Evans
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President Donald Trump built immense wealth by leveraging assets he inherited from his father, Fred Trump, into bigger ventures. According to a New York Times investigation, Trump received at least $413 million from his father, starting from a very young age. This financial security allowed Trump to take risks that others might avoid.
Yet, even without vast generational wealth, anyone can apply Trump’s strategies. By adopting practical versions of his financial moves, you can also grow your assets and secure financial freedom. Below are five Trump-inspired money moves you can replicate, no matter the size of your starting point.
With careful planning, leveraging assets and managing risks, you can set the stage for financial success, similar to Trump’s approach.
Kickstart Your Wealth With Seed Money
Trump started wealthy, inheriting funds early on that let him immediately invest and expand his financial empire. According to the New York Times, he was a millionaire by age eight. Early access to significant funds meant Trump could confidently enter high-value investments at a young age. This head start established financial momentum and allowed his wealth to compound rapidly over subsequent decades.
Even without substantial inheritance, you can still create your own seed money. Start by regularly setting aside small savings or investing unexpected windfalls wisely. Gradually accumulating this initial capital can fuel investments, such as real estate or retirement accounts, helping your wealth compound significantly over time.
Invest in Real Estate and Build Equity
Trump used inherited real estate properties to create equity, allowing him to secure financing for larger deals. According to a New York Times investigation, his father’s properties supported expansions like Trump Tower, boosting both visibility and net worth. Real estate provided Trump stable income, growth in asset values and leverage to pursue broader investment opportunities.
You don’t need prime New York real estate to benefit from this strategy. Buying even modest property lets you build equity over time, potentially funding future investments or retirement plans. Real estate, including small rental properties or REITs, provides stable income and appreciation potential accessible at nearly any investment scale.
Use Debt Strategically — Leverage Like the Pros
Trump leveraged his inheritance to secure loans, amplifying his investment capabilities and expanding his real estate empire. Trump said, “I’m the king of debt” in an interview in 2016 on CBS Morning, for his extensive use of borrowing to finance projects, like in this interview. His familial wealth reduced lender risk perception, enabling significant borrowing, though it occasionally resulted in high-profile bankruptcies.
“Without safety nets Trump enjoyed, everyday investors should carefully assess debt risks and capacities,” said Dr. Preston Cherry, wealth advisor at Wealth Management. Leverage can grow wealth significantly when managed prudently; use loans for appreciating assets like education, homes or businesses. Carefully managing debt ensures you amplify opportunities rather than increasing financial vulnerabilities.
Shield Your Wealth Through Entities and Tax-Savvy Planning
Trump protected his inherited wealth using legal structures and sophisticated tax strategies, significantly reducing tax liabilities. According to a New York Times investigation, he and his father engaged in suspect tax schemes to transfer wealth. Entities like LLCs isolated personal assets from business failures, minimizing potential personal losses during bankruptcies.
You can similarly shield assets using legal and legitimate tax strategies. Forming LLCs or corporations can protect personal assets from business liabilities and lower tax burdens. Utilizing retirement accounts, tax deductions and strategic estate planning ensures your financial resources are safeguarded, maximized and efficiently passed down.
Take Calculated Risks — But Have a Safety Net
Trump consistently took bold risks, knowing family wealth provided a reliable financial safety net. His father’s financial support allowed him to pursue high-risk, high-reward ventures. This confidence encouraged ventures such as casinos and luxury developments, which significantly enhanced his financial stature.
Average investors must carefully balance risk-taking with prudent safety measures. Establishing robust emergency funds and acquiring adequate insurance creates a financial cushion, allowing you to confidently pursue promising investment opportunities. Evaluate risks thoroughly, scale investments prudently and maintain contingency plans to protect your financial stability.
Editor’s note on political coverage: GOBankingRates is nonpartisan and strives to cover all aspects of the economy objectively and present balanced reports on politically focused finance stories. You can find more coverage of this topic on GOBankingRates.com.
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Sources
- The New York Times, “Trump Engaged in Suspect Tax Schemes as He Reaped Riches From His Father.”
- Dr. Preston Cherry, Wealth Management.
