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.

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.

Not educating yourself about which investments may be able to help you pursue your financial goals and how to approach the investing process is a mistake for any saver. Read on to find out how knowledge about your investments creates financial independence.

Retirement isn’t only a financial milestone—it’s a personal one, too. This Lessons in Financial Experiences (LIFE) video explores how a sense of purpose can impact your health, and what questions you can ask yourself to help determine your purpose in retirement.

Despite recent market volatility, long-term progress remains the defining trend of both the economy and society. In this Market Update, CAPTRUST Chief Investment Officer Mike Vogelzang explores the tension between short-term fear and long-term optimism, showing how innovation, corporate growth, and global improvements continue to drive value over time. Investors are reminded: stay patient, stay optimistic—because history favors the long view.