Family-controlled companies loom large in Asia, many tracing their origins to the 19th-century migration of mercantilist entrepreneurs from China. However, some have come under the spotlight in recent years as they have grappled with awkward and sometimes bruising succession issues. But for each tale of family dysfunction, there are others of transition under way to a professionalised younger generation, which is helping run businesses that are among the most profitable in the region. Commenting on the trend, SMU Vice President, Business Development & External Relations, and Academic Director of the Business Families Institute (BFI), Associate Professor Annie Koh said: “The family businesses that have survived did not just stick to their core business.” BFI helps Asia-based family businesses manage generational transition.