529 plans

  • Strong Q2 results and progress in trade discussions move markets higher.

Upbeat Q2, Trade News Cheer Investors

2025-07-28T08:15:55-05:00July 28, 2025|Categories: Weekly Update|Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , |

The Weekly Update

Week of July 28th, 2025
By Christopher T. Much, CFP®, AIF®

Expectation-beating Q2 results from several companies, trade updates, and investor optimism for more trade agreements pushed market averages to solid gains.

The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index advanced 1.46 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index added 1.02 percent. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 1.26 percent. The MSCI EAFE Index, which tracks developed overseas stock markets, gained 2.16 percent.

Earnings, Trade Lift Markets
Stocks showed mixed results the first couple of days last week. Optimism around the Q2 corporate reporting season gave way to mostly positive market reaction as the actual corporate reports started to roll in. The S&P 500 edged ahead to two record closes despite pressure on chipmakers.

Trade negotiations took center stage midweek after the White House announced an agreement with Japan. Stocks extended the rally after news that the U.S. and European Union were approaching an agreement. …

  • What Can You Buy With 529 Distributions

What Can You Buy With 529 Distributions?

2025-03-25T11:45:29-05:00February 28, 2024|Categories: Resource Center|Tags: , , , , |

What Can You Buy With 529 Distributions?

WHAT CAN YOU BUY WITH 529 DISTRIBUTIONS?

A 529 college savings plan is a tax-advantaged way to save for education expenses, and it’s not just limited to college anymore. Originally designed to help families save for higher education, these plans can now be used for a wider range of educational expenses, including K-12 tuition, private and religious schools, vocational schools, and even some international institutions. The plan offers flexibility, allowing individuals to use the funds for various educational purposes beyond traditional four-year college programs.

The primary advantage of a 529 plan is its tax benefits. Earnings on the funds grow tax-deferred, and withdrawals used for qualified education expenses are tax-free. However, it’s important to note that each state may treat 529 plan contributions differently, offering different state tax deductions or credits. Additionally, the fees and expenses associated with each 529 plan can vary, so …

Go to Top