By Barlow Mann

U.S. Household wealth rose to an all-time record level of $86.8 trillion during the fourth quarter of 2015. The increase was driven by the rising value of corporate stock and real estate, according to the Federal Reserve.

In spite of economic volatility since the beginning of 2016 both real estate and stock values have increased dramatically from the lows experienced in 2008 and 2009 during the Great Recession and Financial Crisis. Higher income tax and capital gains tax rates coupled with substantial increases in the value of both real estate and stocks create a favorable environment for gift planners as record numbers of affluent donors consider their gift, estate and financial plans for retirement.