Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex, is making significant financial preparations to ensure that his children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, inherit millions of pounds in the future. The 40-year-old royal recently received a substantial inheritance from a trust fund established by his late great-grandmother, the Queen Mother, further securing his family's financial future.
The trust fund, set up by the Queen Mother in 1994, was designed to benefit her great-grandchildren. Now, as Prince Harry has reached the milestone age of 40, he is set to receive £8 million (approximately $10.5 million) from this trust. The Queen Mother, who passed away in 2002 at the age of 101, created this fund as a way to ensure her descendants would have financial support, particularly in a tax-efficient manner.
"It was a way in which the Queen Mother could set aside money for when her great-grandchildren were older and a way of passing a slice of her estate down in a tax-efficient way," a former Palace aide told The Times. This inheritance comes at a crucial time for Harry, who, after stepping back from royal duties in 2020, has emphasized the importance of financial independence for his family.
Prince Harry's decision to safeguard the inheritance for his children reflects his commitment to their future well-being. A source close to the Duke of Sussex shared, "He wants to put the inheritance away for their future, especially for Archie and Lili." This move ensures that Archie, 5, and Lilibet, 3, will have access to the funds when they come of age, providing them with financial security.
This inheritance is not the first windfall Harry has received. Following the tragic death of his mother, Princess Diana, in 1997, both Harry and his elder brother, Prince William, inherited around £6.5 million each. By the time Harry turned 30, the invested sum had grown significantly, reportedly reaching £10 million (around $13 million). In a CBS interview in 2021, Harry acknowledged that his mother's financial support was instrumental in his ability to relocate to the United States with his wife, Meghan Markle.
Reflecting on his journey, Harry expressed gratitude for the financial provisions made by his late mother, stating, "I have what my mum left me and without that, we wouldn't have been able to do this." His move to the U.S. marked a new chapter for the Sussexes as they sought to create a life independent of the British royal family.
As Harry celebrated his 40th birthday in Los Angeles with his family, he remained focused on his mission to make a positive impact in the world. Attending the George Zajfen Tennis Tournament on September 14, an event that raises funds for children in foster care, Harry highlighted his ongoing dedication to philanthropy.
"I was anxious about 30, I'm excited about 40," Harry shared with the BBC in an interview days before his birthday. "Whatever the age, my mission is to continue showing up and doing good in the world." He also emphasized the joy of fatherhood, noting that becoming a father to Archie and Lilibet has given him "a fresh perspective on life" and further motivated him to contribute positively to society.
During the weekend's celebrations, Harry received warm birthday wishes from various family members, including his brother, Prince William, and sister-in-law, Princess Kate Middleton. The Prince and Princess of Wales extended their congratulations via social media, writing, "Wishing a Happy 40th Birthday to the Duke of Sussex."
