Eight Generations of Family Wealth: The Secret Behind a Lasting U.S. Legacy

The Norton Laird family has maintained its fortune across eight generations through the creation of a family committee and educating successors starting at the age of 14.

After marrying at age 24, Jill Gardner knew very little about her husband's family business . Her spouse is part of the fifth generation of the family associated with the U.S.-based investment company Laird Norton, as per Business Insider .

Her fascination with the company started following the arrival of their first daughter. "While researching our family heritage, I became completely captivated," she mentioned.

The Laird Norton family gathering held in the United States during 2019. Image taken from the company's official website.

Gardner mentioned that she was raised alongside two brothers, and frequent communication became harder following the passing of their parents since they lost the shared purpose that once united them. However, within her husband’s family, she noted that the family business serves as this unifying factor, with 551 members spread across seven countries who all have ownership stakes and participate in the company.

Gardner currently holds the position of Family President, responsible for facilitating connections among family members worldwide. In addition, she assists in producing the family's publication, which features updates on relatives, family gatherings, and significant personal milestones. The family has recently celebrated the arrival of its first member from the eighth generation.

A business spanning 170 years of development

According to the regional historical encyclopedia, William Harris Laird, Matthew G. Norton, and James L. Norton established their company in 1855 through a sawmill located in Winona, Minnesota. HistoryLink .

In 1955, the company relocated its main office to Seattle, Washington. Today, its holdings are overseen by Laird Norton Company, which specializes in private equity and... real estate investments and Laird Norton Wealth Management, valued at over $15 billion according to a digital financial advisory platform Wealth Management .

Gardner stated, 'We have differences on every topic imaginable, yet we concur on choosing the appropriate course of action for the company.'

Jill Gardner, the Family President at Laird Norton. Image taken from the company's official website.

She credited the family's sustained achievements to Norton Clapp, a member of the third generation and son of the founder Matthew G. Norton. He was instrumental in defining Laird Norton during the middle of the 20th century and created a management structure that kept family matters distinct from company activities.

A Family Council was established to speak for the members and issue publications highlighting family updates, hobbies, and significant milestones. Important business choices are managed by a board of directors chosen by the family, which includes seven individuals from within the family and five outside members.

The family also created the Laird Norton Family Foundation to involve the family in philanthropy as a means of enhancing familial bonds.

Laird Norton has historically included in-laws within its leadership structure. Son-in-laws have been part of decision-making processes since the second generation, and this tradition has later extended to daughter-in-laws, such as Gardner.

Each year, the family organizes a gathering that merges stockholder discussions with team-building exercises.

"While my husband was growing up, the company wasn’t as focused on involving family members. His cousin peers humorously refer to themselves as 'the forgotten generation,'" Gardner stated.

The family has lately launched fresh efforts aimed at enhancing bonds between relatives, particularly with the younger members. Approximately 350 family members are set to come together in Salt Lake City during the upcoming summer. As adults take part in stockholder gatherings, the kids will engage in their own distinct summer program.

Gardner mentioned that her kids like going to these gatherings as they get to spend quality time with their cousins.

Family members become involved with the business starting at age 14 via sessions explaining the family's activities. The firm provides internships and holds an every-two-years gathering for individuals between 21 and 40 years old to enhance their understanding of the business and its future objectives.

Maintaining an eighth-generation enterprise requires significant effort. Organizing gatherings that promote engagement with the company and relatives enables us to safeguard the Laird Norton family heritage," she stated.

U.S. Inflation, Iran Tensions Send Global Bond Yields Soaring

The extended conflict in Iran and growing worries about inflation are causing instability in worldwide bond markets. The U.S. consumer price inflation rate has hit its highest point in three years, while increased military conflicts between the U.S. and Iran have caused the U.S. 30-year Treasury yield to surpass the key threshold of 5% per annum. In South Korea's bond market, government bond rates have also approached their annual peak, as experts observe that investors are anticipating higher bond yields (which mean falling prices).

◇ U.S. Inflation Increases at Highest Rate in Three Years

As reported by the U.S. Department of Labor on the 10th, the U.S. Consumer Price Index (CPI) climbed 4.2% in May when compared to the same period in the prior year. This represented a rise from April's 3.8% growth and was the largest increase seen since 2023. On a monthly basis, prices went up by 0.5%, meeting analysts' predictions. Nevertheless, the core CPI, a key indicator watched by the Federal Reserve in shaping interest rate policies, grew just 0.2% over the past month, below the expected 0.3%. Certain specialists remarked, "The most severe outcome has been prevented."

Although the core CPI saw a smaller increase than expected, which briefly caused U.S. bond yields to fall, rising tensions in the Middle East changed this direction. On the same day, U.S. President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social: "We will attack Iran more severely," leading Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to adopt an equivalent position, sparking renewed worries about possible warfare. As reported by Investing.com on the 11th, the U.S. 3-year and 10-year Treasury yields increased by 0.036 percent and 0.041 percent compared to the prior day, hitting annual rates of 4.213% and 4.569%. The 30-year Treasury yield reached 5.044%, crossing above the significant 5% level. An individual from the finance sector remarked, "Ongoing anxieties over inflation, along with potential disruptions in oil supplies due to conflicts involving Iran, are causing pressure on what were once considered secure investments like U.S. Treasuries. Previously, when people avoided risks, they invested in U.S. bonds, thus reducing their yields. However, now factors such as energy prices and U.S. budget shortfalls are making longer-term bonds 'assets for sale.'"

◇South Korean Government Bond Yields Approaching Yearly Peaks

Rising inflation worries and tensions in the Middle East are causing instability in South Korea's bond market. Bond yields in Seoul have reached near-record highs this year, as global interest rate increases continue to push them higher. As reported by the Korea Financial Investment Association, on the 10th, the 3-year government bond yield was recorded at an annual rate of 3.881%, while the 10-year yield came in at 4.273%. These figures are close to their yearly maximums of 3.94% and 4.348%, respectively. Meanwhile, the volume of stock loan deals betting against rising bond prices has hit a new all-time peak. On January 2nd, the total value stood at 182.538 trillion Korean won, but by the 10th, it had climbed to 234.6373 trillion—showing growth of more than 52 trillion Korean won within just six months.

Another element contributing to rising bond yields is the Bank of Korea's decision to raise interest rates. Governor Shin Hyun-song has highlighted the importance of increasing rates, as financial markets anticipate the likelihood of two hikes occurring within the current year. Kim Jin-hee, an analyst from Shinhan Securities, stated, "Taking into account the continued positive surprises in exports and the initial phase of inflationary pressures, tight monetary policy is expected to remain in place through at least the third quarter. Should discussions between the United States and Iran advance during the latter part of the second quarter or the beginning of the third, stable oil prices might briefly reduce market rates; however, a long-term decline seems improbable."

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Lee's Approval Plummets 9% as Democrats Lead with 41%

According to a standard poll conducted by research companies Embrain Public, Kstat Research, Korea Research International, and Hankook Research, the support levels for President Lee Jae Myung and the Korean Democratic Party dropped by 9 percentage points (p) and 4 percentage points (p), respectively, when compared with data from three weeks prior.

As per the findings of the "National Index Survey (NBS)" carried out by four companies between the 8th and 10th of last month and published on the 11th, 57% of participants gave a favorable assessment of President Lee Jae Myung’s leadership, reflecting a drop of 9 percentage points compared to the 66% noted three weeks earlier. The share of those providing an unfavorable evaluation rose to 33%, marking an increase of 9 percentage points.

Regionally, President Lee had the highest approval score of 80% in the Honam area, then Incheon and Gyeonggi with 59%. Next came the Chungcheong region at 56%, followed by Busan, Ulsan, and Gyeongsangnam-do with 55%, as well as Gangwon and Jeju also at 55%. Seoul saw an approval rate of 53%. The lowest level was registered in Daegu and Gyeongsangbuk-do with 45%. Over the past three weeks, the ratings have decreased by 19 percentage points in the Chungcheong region, 11 percentage points in Daegu and Gyeongsangbuk-do, 10 percentage points in Seoul, 10 percentage points in the Honam region, 10 percentage points in Gangwon and Jeju, 9 percentage points in Busan, Ulsan, and Gyeongsangnam-do, and 4 percentage points in Incheon and Gyeonggi.

According to different age categories, President Lee received an approval score of 75% from individuals in their 40s and 50s, whereas this figure stood at 51% for people in their 60s. Nevertheless, the support level dipped under 50% across all other age brackets: 48% for those over 70 years old, 48% for those in their 30s, and 41% for those between 18 and 29 years old. In comparison with data from three weeks prior, the ratings declined by 17 percentage points among those in their 60s, 13 percentage points among those in their 30s, 8 percentage points among young adults aged 18-29, 7 percentage points for seniors 70 and older, 5 percentage points for those in their 40s, and 3 percentage points for those in their 50s.

In terms of political ideology, 91% of liberals backed President Lee, whereas 56% of centrists and 28% of conservatives did so. This marks a decrease of 11 percentage points among conservatives, 10 percentage points among centrists, and 3 percentage points among liberals when contrasted with three weeks prior.

According to the party preference poll, the Democratic Party received the most backing with 41%, reflecting a decrease of 4 percentage points compared to 45% observed three weeks prior. Meanwhile, the People Power Party saw an increase from 20% to 25%, marking a growth of 5 percentage points. Next came the Reform Party with 3%, the Rebuilding Korea Party at 2%, the Progressive Party also at 2%, and various smaller parties collectively accounting for 2%. Those who indicated they do not back any political group made up 23%, whereas 1% either said "I don't know" or remained silent.

Regionally, the Democratic Party had an approval rate of 62% in the Honam area, 48% in Incheon and Gyeonggi, and 47% in Gangwon and Jeju. The figure reached 40% in Busan, Ulsan, and Gyeongsangnam Province, 36% in the Chungcheong region, 30% in Seoul, and 24% in Daegu and Gyeongsangbuk Province. Over the past three weeks, the rating dropped by 12 percentage points in the Chungcheong region, 11 percentage points in Seoul, 8 percentage points in the Honam area, 7 percentage points in Daegu and Gyeongsangbuk Province, and 2 percentage points in Busan, Ulsan, and Gyeongsangnam Province. Conversely, it rose by 4 percentage points in Incheon and Gyeonggi and by 2 percentage points in Gangwon and Jeju.

The People Power Party had an approval rate of 42% in Daegu and Gyeongsangbuk Province, 33% in the Chungcheong area, 32% in Busan, Ulsan, and Gyeongsangnam Province, and 31% in Seoul. The figure reached 19% in Incheon and Gyeonggi, 17% in Gangwon and Jeju, and just 5% in the Honam region. Over the past three weeks, the score rose by 13 percentage points in Seoul, 11 percentage points in Busan, Ulsan, and Gyeongsangnam Province, and 6 percentage points in the Chungcheong region.

Among individuals in their 50s, the Democratic Party had more than 50% backing (59%), while those in their 40s supported the party at 57%. This was followed by 37% from people in their 60s, 33% from those who were 70 years old or older, 29% from those in their 30s, and 27% from those in their teens and twenties. In comparison to three weeks prior, support dropped by 12 percentage points for those in their 60s and by 4 percentage points for those in their 50s.

The People Power Party received 38% of votes from individuals aged 70 and older, 34% from those in their 60s, 28% from people in their 30s, 19% from those in their 40s, 19% from those in their teens and early 20s, and 16% from those in their 50s. Over the past three weeks, support rose by 12 percentage points among those in their 30s, 11 percentage points among those in their 60s, and 6 percentage points among those in their 40s.

Within progressive groups, 77% backed the Democratic Party, whereas 55% of conservatives favored the People Power Party. For moderates, 36% supported the Democratic Party and 22% aligned with the People Power Party.

When questioned about their opinions on the outcomes of the June 3 local elections, 45% of participants stated that "the opposition, such as the People Power Party, exceeded expectations." Thirty-one percent mentioned that "the governing party, like the Democratic Party, outperformed predictions." Twenty-four percent either replied with "I'm unsure" or failed to provide an answer.

Concerning an investigation by parliament into the lack of voting ballots during the municipal elections, 85% of those surveyed stated it was "essential."

A national index survey was carried out through phone calls made using mobile devices to 1,001 people who were 18 years old or older across the country between the 8th and 10th of last month. The participation rate stood at 26.0 percent, with a margin of error of ±3.1 percentage points at a 95% confidence interval. To learn further information, kindly visit the official site of the National Election Survey Review Committee.

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Supreme Court Backs Suspended Fine for Lee Kyu-won

On the 11th, the Supreme Court confirmed a lower court decision that put on hold the imposition of a penalty against Lee Kyu-won, head of the Wonju branch of the Rebuilding Korea Party, who was accused of falsifying documents during an inquiry concerning claims of improper benefits at a villa linked to ex-Vice Justice Minister Kim Hak-eui. The suspension of enforcement refers to a process wherein, should the defendant admit guilt for relatively light offenses, their sentence is delayed and automatically dropped after two years, thereby terminating legal proceedings.

The Third Division of the Supreme Court (led by Judge Lee Sook-yeon) confirmed the lower court's ruling to delay the announcement of a 2 million South Korean won penalty, rejecting Lee's appeal. Lee worked as part of the Supreme Prosecutors' Office's Historical Truth Investigation Unit between November 2018 and May 2019. He faced prosecution for reportedly falsifying interviews with significant individuals involved in claims about sexual favoritism, such as construction entrepreneur Yoon Jung-cheon and ex-Chungnam Palace official Park Gwan-cheon, by adding quotes that were never actually said.

The initial court ruling admitted responsibility for one offense — fabricating official records by recreating the third meeting with Yoon in the absence of a recorded conversation — but cleared him of charges related to disclosing classified information, breaching the Personal Information Protection Act, obstructing operations, slander under the Information and Communications Network Act, and violating the Criminal Electronic Procedures Act. The judgment postponed announcing a penalty of 500,000 South Korean won.

The second trial reversed the previous not-guilty verdicts related to violations of the Personal Information Protection Act and the Criminal Electronic Procedures Act, increasing the suspended penalty to 2 million South Korean won. It determined that Lee was responsible for disclosing personal details gathered during interviews and improperly distributing data from the Korea Information System of Criminal Justice Services (KICS). The court noted, "Although the unlawful actions can’t be excused, the seriousness of the offense and damage to legal rights were limited, and the defendant acknowledged the main points."

The Supreme Court supported this decision and rejected Lee's appeal. Following the appellate verdict, the prosecution withdrew its appeal, yet Lee remained determined, stating, "Even the suspended fine of two million South Korean won needs to be addressed, so I will strive to convince the Supreme Court."

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Ekiti 2026: APC Launches 500K Vote Push for Oyebanji's Re-Election

Samuel Ogidan

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has introduced an ambitious election strategy designed to achieve a significant lead of 500,000 votes for the return of Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, amid growing political activity throughout the region before the upcoming gubernatorial race.

The approach, characterized by party officials as broad yet organized, was officially highlighted in Abuja on Wednesday during the launch of the campaign committee for the gubernatorial election in Ekiti State, where leading members of the governing party gathered to establish the direction they claim will mark a crucial contest.

During the gathering, Senate President Godswill Akpabio emphasized the importance of the party's internal procedures, highlighting that commitment and adherence to rules are key factors in maintaining the APC's solidarity and voting power. He called on supporters to accept the results from party elections and steer clear of behaviors that could threaten harmony.

He said: "If anyone loses the election at the local level, don't anticipate me, as Head of the National Assembly, to go and beg you. That merely indicates the individual has suffered defeat,"

Sticking firmly to internal party rules, Akpabio also advocated for greater openness in forming campaign teams, emphasizing that key players, especially legislators, must not be excluded from important decisions. He warned that unresolved conflicts within the party might undermine its chances of success at the polls if left unaddressed.

He also extended his congratulations to those who won in the primary elections and urged supporters of the party to enhance their involvement at the local level as efforts increase for the 2027 election season and onward.

Boosting the campaign efforts, the Governor of Kaduna State expressed high assurance regarding the APC's chances of victory in Ekiti, praising Governor Oyebanji's work and viewing the coming election as an opportunity to strengthen the party's control over the state.

He revealed that the party has established an aggressive objective of doubling its prior election outcomes, aiming for at least a 500,000-vote lead over rival candidates.

As per his statement, the APC has already established strong campaign frameworks throughout all 16 local government areas and 177 wards in Ekiti State, aimed at achieving extensive reach at the community level and unified activation.

"This goes beyond a mere campaign; it represents a movement embodying the hopes of the populace," he stated, noting that initiatives introduced during President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's leadership—Bola Ahmed Tinubu—have enhanced governmental effectiveness throughout various regions and boosted administrative cooperation within local authorities.

He also highlighted what he called an uncommon degree of political consensus between current and past leaders from Ekiti State, suggesting that the widespread backing for Oyebanji indicates a common conviction regarding consistency and stable leadership. He commended the governor's achievements in building infrastructure, expanding health services, advancing educational programs, and promoting opportunities for young people, portraying the administration as open-minded and focused on results.

Generally, leaders of the APC expressed assurance that internal cohesion within the party, along with its local organization and track record in administration, would lead to a clear victory in Ekiti State.

They jointly portrayed the upcoming election as a vote on how well government has performed and the level of public confidence, calling for increased efforts to organize supporters and maintain continuous interaction with voters across every tier.

The advisory committee was officially launched with new promises of unity within the group, tactical cooperation, and a single political stance intended to secure what top party officials claim will be a strong endorsement for Governor Oyebanji.

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Adebayo Warns: Nigeria's Crisis Lies in Governance, Not Leadership Duration

Leader of the Social Democratic Party and candidate for president, Prince Adewole Adebayo, has rejected the increasing discussion about plans for a single six-year term as an unnecessary focus away from Nigeria's more significant issues related to governance and democracy. He emphasized that election integrity, economic skills, and reforms in security must be central topics in the country's conversation before 2027.

Recently, during an interview, Adebayo stated that the nation's true issue is not how long leaders stay in power, but whether elections truly represent the desires of the electorate.

He stated that Nigeria needs to address what he referred to as the ongoing issue of election integrity and work towards restoring public trust in democratic systems.

"The problem isn't about how long leaders stay in power, either four or six years. The real question is whether the system functions properly and if citizens truly choose those who lead," he stated.

Referring to the method used for commemorating June 12, Adebayo advocated for what he described as the ultimate victory over election fraud, emphasizing that political rivalry should focus on concepts and capability instead of conflicts within parties or issues related to identity.

Commenting on issues related to internal changes inside the SDP and rumors about opposing factions within the group, Adebayo minimized worries and emphasized that the party continues to concentrate on offering a different national perspective.

He stated that his objective was to offer Nigerians what he referred to as a constitutionally grounded and policy-driven option centered on economic revival, security improvements, and social well-being.

Adebayo claimed that focus in past elections moved away from discussions about policies and instead centered more on identity issues, which he stated hindered voters from examining the effects of governmental plans.

Regarding his party's chances in the election, the SDP leader dismissed claims that the party continues to be politically insignificant, stating that rising public frustration has led to greater interest in different options.

He stated that the nation's present political environment promotes financial influence and undermines campaign efforts centered around specific issues, whereas parties that enforce tighter internal rules frequently encounter challenges.

He argued that his political group opposes buying votes, using ethnicity for mobilization, and relying on religious rhetoric, portraying moral politics as essential for long-term leadership.

His statement was: 'We believe that sound politics is the sole path to effective governance, and strong governance is the only long-term answer to Nigeria's challenges.'

Regarding the economy, Adebayo reiterated his critique of the elimination of fuel subsidies, contending that governmental policies overlooked broader economic impacts.

Although emphasizing that he wouldn't merely reinstate the previous subsidy system, he noted that the choice to eliminate it was made without tackling underlying problems within local refining capabilities and distribution networks.

He suggested a step-by-step plan focused on restoring Nigeria's oil refining facilities, enhancing public transportation networks, and decreasing reliance on gasoline for people with lower incomes.

He stated that fuel pricing carries wide-ranging effects since it influences production expenses, inflation, and family well-being at the same time.

In terms of security, Adebayo expressed some of his most severe critiques so far regarding the government's approach to instability, contending that Nigeria has adequate organizational capability to overcome armed factions provided that intelligence gathering and police work are effectively synchronized.

He attributed frequent abductions and instability to inadequate enforcement, low priority allocation, and what he referred to as a highly centralised security system.

He maintained that criminal organizations must not be engaged in negotiations and dismissed any chance of reaching an agreement with armed individuals.

"No terrorist or abductor has the power to surpass the Nigerian government. The question remains whether the administration decides to take action," he stated.

Adebayo also supported changes in police practices, urging more autonomy for law enforcement agencies and less involvement from politics.

He contended that cybersecurity experts ought to function according to intelligence assessments and constitutional duties instead of following political instructions.

In response to claims that opposition figures frequently downplay the challenges of running a government, Adebayo argued that discussing policies is an essential part of effective leadership.

Speech is not inexpensive," he stated. "Mindless conversation is free. Genuine policies demand thought, information, and an awareness of how governance functions.

As discussions about politics in 2027 start gaining traction, Adebayo stated that his campaign will remain centered on constitutional governance, economic reform, election fairness, and public security as the key issues facing Nigeria.

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Students' Unions Praise Gov. Zulum for Reviving Borno's Education Sector Amidst Adversity

Mohammed Abubakar

A strong demonstration of backing has come from multiple student unions throughout Borno State, who have praised Governor Professor Babagana Umara Zulum for his continuous attempts to revive the education system, even amidst major challenges brought about by violence in the area.

In conversation with our correspondent, one of the student leaders from Maiduguri conveyed appreciation for the governor's dedication to bringing back hope and prospects for the young people of Borno, who have endured significant difficulties in obtaining good education because of prolonged conflict and instability.

A notable voice, Abba Ali, who was once a well-known student activist, stressed the administration's commitment to establishing an educational system that serves every citizen. "Governor Zulum recognizes the vital part education plays in changing people's lives. His team has consistently worked towards ensuring our right to education remains protected, even amidst challenges," said Ali. He pointed out the substantial efforts made in improving school facilities, professional development for teachers, and various initiatives designed to motivate students to continue their academic pursuits.

In recent years, Governor Zulum has launched multiple initiatives aimed at restoring schools affected or demolished due to hostilities, as well as focusing on boosting student registration across different educational establishments. These actions involve setting up study hubs and hiring more educators to address the rising demands from learners.

Student organizations have observed that these efforts are starting to produce favorable outcomes, marked by a significant rise in class attendance and involvement in academic activities. "It is clear that the Zulum government is dedicated to keeping education at the forefront," stated Fatima Ibrahim, another student representative who contributed her perspective on the state's approach to education.

With the state gradually recovering from previous hardships, the backing provided by students reflects a shared hope for a more promising tomorrow in Borno. Unions have appealed to all involved parties to collaborate with the government in maintaining these educational changes, emphasizing a commitment to academic quality as a route toward harmony and security.

The governor, Zulum, has once again expressed his dedication to the young people of Borno, vowing to keep working towards improving the education system within the state. "Education serves as the foundation for progress," he stated at a recent community gathering, sparking renewed hope among pupils and those who back them.

Through united effort and resolve, Borno State stands at the threshold of an encouraging revival in education, guaranteeing that young people are prepared to make constructive contributions to their community.

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