Merrill Lynch Wealth Management has launched this year’s annual Global Investing Programme - an initiative pitched at “next generation” ultra high net worth individuals from around the world.

The programme comprises 50 people aged between 18 and 25 years. The theme for this year’s event is “investing and values”, with a focus on philanthropy and corporate social responsibility.

Such an event is an example of how wealth management firms engage with young people, typically those who stand to inherit considerable wealth, to ensure they can be retained as future clients. A number of firms, such as Coutts, for example, have organised summer programmes for young people where financial issues are discussed.

Participants in Merrill’s invitation-only event come from countries including Ireland, the UK, Switzerland, France, Spain, Italy, Turkey and Dubai.

The programme comprises sessions led by Merrill Lynch professionals and external partners on topics including financial planning, portfolio management and investments.

A new feature is a seminar led by the World Economic Forum Global Shapers Community - a network of young individuals around the world who aim to generate fresh ideas and entrepreneurial solutions to the world's most pressing challenges.

This seminar includes a brainstorming session on community development and leadership skills.

The Global Investing Programme, which has run in EMEA since 2007, will be held at Merrill’s offices in London. Other programmes are being held in Singapore and Hong Kong.