> Say a couple has $10 million in the bank. With $10,000,000, they consistently make $400,000 a year from investments managed by an investment banker. They pay 15% taxes on those gains. So they bring home $340,000 a year, without working a minute. That’s a big chunk of money.<p>Yes it is, but not in the context.<p>Inflation is currently 2.3%. To keep the value of a $10,000,000 lump sum, you need to earn $230,000 a year from your investments. If you bring home $340,000 after tax and give your child $28,000 a year, that's $82,000 left over for you to live on if you don't want your fortune to dwindle in real terms.<p>$82,000 would disappear relatively quick if you're a couple adjusted to the millionaire lifestyle.