JPMorgan’s 2025 summer reading list, a highly anticipated annual selection favored by affluent readers, features a diverse lineup of 16 books covering topics such as happiness, resilience, artificial intelligence, and the future of the U.S. dollar. Now in its 26th year, this list has grown from previous editions that typically included 10 titles, demonstrating a broader scope and deeper focus for this year’s readers. The books were carefully selected from over 1,000 recommendations provided by JPMorgan’s client advisors and refined by a dedicated review committee to reflect the theme of curiosity, both as a tool for reflection and transformation.
The list includes Suzy Welch’s career guide, Melinda French Gates’ personal reflections on life and philanthropy, Palantir CEO Alex Karp’s insights on artificial intelligence, and economist Kenneth Rogoff’s analysis of the U.S. dollar’s future. This broad range of topics caters to wealthy readers who are not only interested in personal development and societal trends but also in understanding the evolving landscape of technology and global finance.
Darin Oduyoye, chief communications officer for JPMorgan Asset and Wealth Management, who oversees the reading list, emphasized that curiosity is at the heart of this year’s selection. The goal is to inspire both introspection and forward-thinking transformation among readers. Input from family offices—private investment entities managing the wealth of affluent families—played a crucial role in shaping the list. These family offices are increasingly focused on educating and preparing the next generation of wealth holders as trillions of dollars are expected to be transferred across generations in the coming years.
With more than $100 trillion anticipated to pass from older generations to their heirs, family offices view the preparation of future leaders as a vital priority. According to Oduyoye, values are a significant concern for these next-generation wealth holders. As families contemplate the leadership roles for upcoming generations in family businesses or committees, there is a strong emphasis on ensuring that future leaders are ready not only financially but also psychologically. This includes balancing the prosperity of wealth with a commitment to making a meaningful impact both within their communities and their business ventures.
Beyond the books, this year’s summer reading list also suggests a variety of curated summer experiences. These include visiting the Dataland exhibit at The Grand LA, attending the SailGP racing series, and exploring the Hill Family Estate in Napa, California. These experiences complement the intellectual stimulation of the reading list by offering immersive and enriching opportunities that appeal to the sophisticated tastes of JPMorgan’s affluent clientele.
Overall, JPMorgan’s 2025 summer reading list reflects a nuanced understanding of the interests and needs of the wealthy, emphasizing the importance of curiosity, lifelong learning, and thoughtful preparation for the future. It caters to those who value not only financial success but also personal growth, social impact, and a deeper understanding of the complex world around them.
READ MORE: