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Family business: outdated model or cornerstone of a human-centered economy?

Cécile de Lisle, Executive Director of the Family Business Center at HEC Paris, explains why family-owned firms often outperform others in the long run—and what sets their governance and strategy apart.

5 minutes
Key findings
  • Family firms prioritize long-term survival over short-term profit
  • Governance blends emotional ties and business discipline
  • Trust and shared values strengthen decision-making
  • Succession is a critical but fragile transition
  • Family involvement can be both a strength and a risk
  • Resilience comes from patient capital and stability

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