As summer approaches, a unique blend of curiosity and intellectual exploration captures the attention of the affluent—an annual tradition highlighted by a curated reading list from one of the world’s leading financial institutions. This year, the list, now in its 26th iteration, showcases 16 titles that span a diverse range of topics including personal development, the nuances of artificial intelligence, and the evolving landscape of global finance, particularly the future of the U.S. dollar.
Darin Oduyoye, the Chief Communications Officer for JPMorgan Asset and Wealth Management, emphasizes that the overarching theme for this selection is the “power of curiosity.” This year’s list aims not only to entertain but to provoke thought and inspire transformation. Compiled from over 1,000 suggestions from JPMorgan’s client advisors and refined by a specialized review committee, the list underscores a growing focus on the psychological and educational needs of the next generation of wealth holders.
With an estimated $100 trillion poised to transfer from older generations to their heirs, the responsibility of guiding this new wave of wealth has become a pressing priority for family offices—the private investment entities of affluent families. Oduyoye notes that insights from a recent survey revealed a strong desire among these families to instill values in their successors. “As they consider adult leadership for their family business or operating committee, they want to ensure these individuals are not only prepared financially but also equipped to make a meaningful impact in their communities,” he explains.
This year’s reading list is not just a collection of books but rather a toolkit for fostering resilience and forward-thinking in an ever-changing world. Among the featured titles is “Life in Three Dimensions” by Shigehiro Oishi, which explores how curiosity and experiences enrich our lives. Suzy Welch’s “Becoming You” offers a roadmap for crafting an authentic life and career, while Melinda French Gates’ “The Next Day” delves into navigating transitions with grace and purpose.
In addition to the literary offerings, the list includes recommendations for summer experiences that align with the embodied values of exploration and engagement. From the DATALAND exhibit at The Grand LA to the adrenaline-fueled SailGP racing series and the serene Hill Family Estate in Napa, California, these suggestions highlight a lifestyle that values both cultural enrichment and adventure.
The reading list also reflects contemporary issues, such as the impact of technology and entrepreneurship in the Middle East and North Africa, as explored in Noor Sweid’s “Coming of Age.” Further, it addresses the pressing challenges of our time, particularly climate change and the transition to electric vehicles, as discussed in Mike Colias’s “Inevitable.”
Among the most thought-provoking titles is Kenneth Rogoff’s “Economic Spotlight,” which provides an insider’s perspective on seven turbulent decades of global finance, offering a sobering look at the U.S. dollar’s potential trajectory. This resonates deeply with a growing number of investors who are increasingly aware of the interconnectedness of global economies and the implications for personal wealth.
In a world where information is abundant but meaningful insights are scarce, this summer reading list serves as a crucial resource for high-net-worth individuals seeking to navigate the complexities of modern life while cultivating a legacy rooted in values and purpose. As the wealthy engage with these texts, they not only enrich their own lives but also prepare themselves to influence future generations positively.
To conclude, the JPMorgan summer reading list is more than just a collection of books; it is an invitation to engage with the world thoughtfully, fostering a generation that values not only the accumulation of wealth but also the profound impact of knowledge and curiosity. In a rapidly evolving landscape, this commitment to intellectual growth and ethical leadership may well be the key to navigating the uncertain waters of the future.
