Let's face it. People who own property in Maui's resort areas or on Maui's oceanfront are rich. No two ways about it. So are the folks who can consider purchasing second or third homes here. So research into that demographic is always interesting for us. The Economist recently released The New World of Wealth: Seven Key trends for investing, giving and spending among the very rich. In short here are the seven trends:

1. There is a "trust crisis"-as a result investors prize transparency over high returns.
2. For the moment, simplicity is a key investment criteria-That will likely change over time, but it will take time.
3. Philanthropic giving remains a high priority.
4. Philanthropic giving is becoming more businesslike-Accountability for recipients continues to increase in importance.
5. Philanthropy in China and India is increasing as a wealthy class increases in size.
6.  Austerity really doesn't apply to the superwealthy-They will be less flashy, but still spend the same amount.
7. "Something that feels special" is critical in buying decisions.

Numbers 1,2 and 7 all seem like good news for Maui real estate. What is simpler, more transparent and more special that owning a piece of paradise?