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Murdoch Family Reaches Settlement in Succession Battle
Wealthmanagementยท 2025-09-17 14:21
Core Viewpoint - The Murdoch media empire's internal conflict has reached a settlement, with Lachlan Murdoch gaining control after buying out his siblings [1][2]. Group 1: Legal Battle and Settlement - The legal dispute originated from Rupert Murdoch's attempt to amend a trust to transfer control to Lachlan, opposed by his siblings who wanted equal voting rights [2]. - The settlement resolves all litigation regarding family shares, aligning with Rupert Murdoch's desire to maintain a conservative editorial stance across the empire's news outlets [3]. - A new trust will be established, dissolving the existing family trust, which will include Lachlan and his two younger siblings, Grace and Chloe, granting Lachlan control over voting shares [4]. Group 2: Financial Implications - Prudence, Elisabeth, and James will become beneficiaries of new trusts funded by the sale of millions of shares in News Corp and Fox Corp, a deal reportedly worth billions [5]. - The three siblings are required to sell any personal holdings in Fox Corp or News Corp and are prohibited from purchasing shares in either company under a long-term agreement [5]. Group 3: Future Considerations - The settlement followed a probate court victory for Prudence, Elisabeth, and James, which prompted renewed buyout discussions after a judge indicated support for Rupert's control over the empire [6]. - The ongoing scrutiny of Lachlan's actions is anticipated, as the family dynamics may remain strained due to the history of conflict and control issues [7]. - The situation underscores the importance of transparency and clear planning in family businesses to prevent future conflicts and protect both family relationships and business interests [8].