A Unique Opportunity to Make an Impact: Philanthropy After an IPO
An IPO can be a defining milestone, often bringing new opportunities alongside increased financial complexity and the need for more intentional planning. For many individuals, it’s also a moment to clarify what they want their wealth to do: support causes and communities they care about, create a legacy, educate and communicate with younger generations, and align resources with long-term priorities.
1. How will you focus your philanthropy?
Philanthropy is personal. Creating a durable plan typically starts by defining what you want your giving to represent—now and over time. This can be a solo exercise, or something you choose to share with a spouse, partner or other trusted stakeholders.
2. Which charitable structure is right for you?
Your choice of charitable structure is an important factor in your ability to meet your financial goals, desired involvement, privacy preferences and administrative tolerance. Over time, many philanthropic approaches evolve as needs become more complex and the scope of philanthropic ambition expands.
When choosing a vehicle, first clarify your decision-making and operating preferences:
• Is this giving plan designed for you alone, or will others be involved over time?
• Who will lead (if shared)?
• How will decisions be made, and how formal should governance be?
3. Which assets should you donate —and when?
After an IPO, the particular assets you donate, and the timing of those gifts, can matter as much as the vehicle you choose. Some donors prefer to give cash. Others may consider donating securities or more complex assets, depending on their goals and constraints.
Donors may choose to give:
• Cash—typically the simplest route.
• Publicly traded securities—often suitable post-IPO, especially for those with concentrated positions.
• Other assets—such as real estate or private interests, which may require longer timelines and documentation.
Know when to give
Timing can be especially important after an IPO, when income may be elevated and portfolios are being adjusted. In some cases, donors may find it’s more advantageous to combine multiple years of giving into a single donation rather than spreading donations evenly across several years. Your tax advisor can help you choose an approach that fits your circumstances.
Rick Barragan is the Managing Director,
Los Angeles Market Manager, for
J.P. Morgan Private Bank.
[email protected] | (310) 860-3658
privatebank.jpmorgan.com/los-angeles
Source: “A unique opportunity to make an impact: Philanthropy after an IPO”, July 16, 2026
