An emergency fund is your financial safety net when life doesn’t go as planned. In this Lessons in Financial Experiences (LIFE) video, we walk through three essential steps to help you start saving today. With a solid emergency fund, you gain not just security—but flexibility and confidence.

In this Market Update, investors are likened to cyclists enjoying a downhill ride—momentum is strong, but caution is key. The U.S. economy remains resilient, with stable employment and record-breaking corporate profits fueling growth. Interest rate cuts and tax relief have further accelerated market gains, adding nearly $9 trillion in new investor wealth. Join CAPTRUST Chief Investment Officer Mike Vogelzang as he explores what’s driving this market momentum and how investors can stay steady through the turns ahead.

A 529 plan is a tax-advantaged savings program designed to help families prepare for future education expenses. Named after Section 529 of the Internal Revenue Code, these plans have transformed the way families save and pay for college. In addition to tax benefits, 529 plans offer diverse investment options, allow funds to be used for a wide range of expenses—including college costs, trade schools, and K-12 tuition—and can reduce the impact of personal savings on financial aid eligibility.

There are some important tax strategies to consider adding to your checklist as you approach the end of the year.

Health care remains important throughout life, but it often becomes an even greater focus after retirement. As you age, maintaining your health becomes a top priority, which may involve more frequent doctor visits for routine exams and preventive screenings. Additionally, aging can bring a higher likelihood of health issues, potentially leading to increased expenses for medications and medical procedures. That’s why having reliable health insurance is essential to help manage these rising costs.

When developing your estate plan, you can do well by doing good. Leaving money to charity rewards you in many ways. It gives you a sense of personal satisfaction, and it can save you money in estate taxes.

Risk is multifaceted and deeply personal. Whether you are building a long-term portfolio for growth or for capital preservation, understanding how risk functions—and how it aligns with your financial plan—is essential.

While no investment strategy can guarantee success and all investing carries risk— including the potential loss of principal—a successful investor aims to maximize returns and minimize losses. The following six fundamental principles may help guide you toward more effective investing.