In this paper we experimentally study and model the electron donating character of an axial diamagnetic Pd 2+ ion in four metalloligated lanthanide complexes of formula [PPh4][Ln{Pd(SAc)4}2] (SAc -= thioacetate, Ln = Tb, Dy, Ho, and Er). A global model 2 encompassing inelastic neutron scattering, torque magnetometry, and dc magnetometry allows to precisely determine the energy level structure of the complexes. Solid state nuclear magnetic resonance reveals a less donating character of Pd 2+ compared to the previously reported isostructural Pt 2+ -based complexes. Consequently, all complexes invariably show a lower crystal field strength compared to their Pt 2+ -analogues. The dynamic properties show an enhanced single molecule magnet behavior due to the suppression of quantum tunneling, in agreement with our model.