The first step to building a portfolio? Choosing the right asset mix.
A diversified portfolio may include:
✅ Cash
✅ Stocks
✅ Bonds
✅ Mutual funds and ETFs
Each plays a different role. Some help manage and grow your money, others add stability or spread out your risk. The key is finding the mix that fits your goals, timeline and comfort level.
Learn more 👉 https://bit.ly/45HHnZe
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• Apply for a Thrivent Action Team at thrivent.com/actionteam
• Lead a project you care about
• Get shirts, support, and up to $250 to help get it done
Start 2026 doing something that matters.
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Jumpstarting the American DreamIRS Issues Guidance on 530A (Trump) Accounts
In December 2025, the U.S. Treasury Department and the IRS released guidance (Notice 2025-68) on 530A accounts (also known as "Trump Accounts"), a type of tax-advantaged savings account for children created by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. This guidance provides more details on how the accounts will work.
Growth period
A 530A account is a traditional individual retirement account (IRA) established for the exclusive benefit of an eligible individual (a child who is a U.S. citizen, has a valid Social Security number, and is under 18) and designated as a "Trump Account" when created. Money may be contributed to a 530A account during the "growth period" and withdrawn after this period ends to use for education, a home purchase, or other purposes. This growth period begins when an account is opened and ends on December 31 of the year before the account beneficiary turns 18. For example, if a child is born in 2025 and turns 18 in 2043, the growth period for the child ends December 31, 2042. During this period, 530A accounts differ from traditional IRAs in several ways, including: (1) there's no earned income requirement to contribute; (2) specific contribution limits and requirements apply; (3) investment options are significantly limited; and (4) distributions are prohibited except in limited cases.
Establishing a 530A account
Parents, guardians, or other authorized representatives may create a 530A account for a child by making an election using IRS Form 4547 or through an online portal (trumpaccounts.gov) expected to launch in mid-2026. Once the election is processed, the Treasury Department or its agent will send instructions to complete an authentication process and activate the account.
Pilot program contribution
A key feature of these accounts is a pilot program contribution by the federal government. For children who are U.S. citizens born between January 1, 2025, and December 31, 2028, with a valid Social Security number, and no prior pilot election, the Treasury Department will deposit a one-time $1,000 contribution for each eligible child. Pilot contributions will not begin before July 4, 2026, and only after the Treasury Department confirms the account has been opened. The $1,000 seed grant is not subject to reduction or offset and is excluded from income.
Other contributions
In addition to the federal seed money, 530A accounts allow for other types of contributions during the growth period, including qualified general contributions from government entities or charitable organizations, employer contributions, qualified rollover contributions from another 530A account, and contributions from parents or relatives. Unlike traditional IRAs, the child does not need earned income to receive contributions. Contributions to these accounts cannot come from SEP IRAs or SIMPLE IRAs.
Account contributions are capped at $5,000 per year and will be indexed for inflation beginning after 2027. An employer may contribute to the 530A account of an employee or the employee's dependent up to $2,500 per year, which counts against the $5,000 limit. Government-funded contributions and pilot program payments are excluded from this annual cap. Contributions must be made within the calendar year to count for that tax year, and no contributions may be made before July 4, 2026.
Account investments
During the growth period, 530A account funds may only be invested in eligible investments, which are domestic mutual funds or exchange-traded funds (ETFs) that track a qualified index (such as the S&P 500), do not use leverage, have annual fees not exceeding 0.1% of the fund's balance, and meet other criteria determined by the Treasury Secretary. Money market funds and cash holdings are not eligible investments, except temporarily while reinvesting contributions or proceeds from sales.
Distributions
Distributions are not permitted until the child turns 18; however, distributions during the growth period may be made for qualified rollovers, qualified ABLE account rollovers (only during the calendar year the child turns 17 and not earlier), refunds of excess contributions, or upon the beneficiary's death. Hardship withdrawals are not allowed.
In the post-growth period, distributions generally follow traditional IRA rules, including a potential 10% early withdrawal penalty if a distribution is made before age 59½and no exception applies. (Exceptions include a first-time home purchase and qualified education expenses.) However, these accounts remain separately tracked for basis and reporting purposes and cannot be aggregated with other IRAs for certain calculations.
During the growth phase, 530A accounts are subject to special reporting rules, including additional disclosures not required by IRAs (such as reporting the source and type of contributions, basis information, and timely reporting of rollovers). Once the child turns 18, standard IRA reporting rules apply.
Individuals interested in establishing a 530A account for their eligible child(ren) may want to consult a tax or financial professional to determine eligibility, contribution limits, and compliance requirements. For more information, visit IRS.gov.
All investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal, and there is no guarantee that any investment strategy will be successful.
Money market funds are neither insured nor guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) or any other government agency. Although money market funds seek to preserve the value of your investment at $1.00 per share, it is possible to lose money by investing in such a fund.
Funds are sold by prospectus. Consider the investment objectives, risks, charges, and expenses carefully before investing. The prospectus, which contains this and other information about the investment company, can be obtained from your financial professional.
The performance of an unmanaged index is not indicative of the performance of any specific security. Individuals cannot invest directly in any index. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Actual results will vary.
There is no guarantee that working with a financial professional will improve investment results.
The material presented includes information and opinions provided by a party not related to Thrivent. It has been obtained from sources deemed reliable; but no independent verification has been made, nor is its accuracy or completeness guaranteed. The opinions expressed may not necessarily represent those of Thrivent or its affiliates. They are provided solely for information purposes and are not to be construed as solicitations or offers to buy or sell any products, securities or services. Thrivent and its affiliates accept no liability for loss or damage of any kind arising from the use of this information. Concepts presented are intended for educational purposes. This information should not be considered investment advice or a recommendation of any particular security, strategy, or product. The concepts in this presentation are intended for educational purposes only. They may not be suitable for your client’s particular situation. The suitability of any specific product or strategy will be dependent upon your clients’ particular situation.
Hypothetical example is for illustrative purposes. May not be representative of actual results. Past performance is not necessarily indicative of future results.
Thrivent and its financial advisors and professionals do not provide legal, accounting or tax advice. Consult your attorney or tax professional.
Thrivent financial advisors and professionals have general knowledge of the Social Security tenets. For complete details on your situation, contact the Social Security Administration.
Thrivent is the marketing name for Thrivent Financial for Lutherans. Insurance products issued by Thrivent. Not available in all states. Securities and investment advisory services offered through Thrivent Investment Management Inc., a registered investment adviser, member FINRA and SIPC, and a subsidiary of Thrivent. Licensed agent/producer of Thrivent. Registered representative of Thrivent Investment Management, Inc. Thrivent.com/disclosures.
Insurance products, securities and investment advisory services are provided by appropriately appointed and licensed financial advisors and professionals. Only individuals who are financial advisors are credentialed to provide investment advisory services. Visit Thrivent.com or FINRA’s Broker Check for more information about our financial advisors.
A licensed insurance agent/producer may contact you and financial solutions, including insurance may be solicited.
Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. (CPF Board) owns the CFP®️ certification mark (with plaque design) logo in the United States, which it authorized use of by individuals who successfully complete CFP Board's initial and ongoing certification requirements. 3172761.4
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🏡 Your financial house should be built to last—and you can make it stronger with the right help.
Whether you’re working to lay a solid foundation, grow your money or shape your legacy, financial planning can help you:
✅ Prepare for the unexpected
✅ Save and invest for major milestones
✅ Adapt as your goals evolve
Together, we can create a financial plan with clarity and confidence, the same way a house is constructed. Reach out to learn more.
See thrivent.com/social for important disclosures.
Nation of Homeowners and Thrivent have joined with The Gouché Foundation to introduce the Future Homeowner LA Fund. The effort is built to help Los Angeles families start saving now for their children’s future down payments.
The fund invites families to open dedicated savings accounts through Thrivent. The aim is simple: help parents build early capital so their kids can enter adulthood with real access to homeownership.
Why It Matters
• Homeownership continues to be the strongest driver of wealth in the United States.
• The wealth gap between owners and renters shows the impact of early planning.
• Many families struggle to save for upfront costs, creating barriers that last for generations.
Nick J. Gouché, founder of Nation of Homeowners, shared that “too many families fall short not because they lack desire, but because they lack early capital.” He noted that “this campaign gives families a chance to build resources over time and change what the future looks like for their children.”
Thrivent’s perspective centers on empowerment and access. Marc Henderson, Market Director, noted that “this work speaks directly to the needs of Los Angeles families”. He highlighted Thrivent’s long history of putting people first and said “this initiative reflects the company’s commitment to helping families create meaningful change.”
Brian Hill, president of The Gouché Foundation, stated that “the partnership is focused on helping families replace financial barriers with long-term opportunity.”He emphasized that “early saving gives families a path toward stronger futures and healthier communities.”
Ryan Sims, Engagement Leader and Partnership Specialist at Thrivent, added that “many families face gaps in financial clarity and access”. He shared that “this partnership is designed to provide tools, education, and support so families can build wealth with confidence and pass it on to the next generation.”
Next Event
Future Homeowners Day Celebration
December 13 | 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM | Los Angeles
• A family-friendly event focused on education and empowerment
• Financial workshops for parents
• Activities and games for kids
• Giveaways, food, and entertainment
• Licensed Thrivent advisors available to support families
Nation of Homeowners, Gouché Foundation and the Future Homeowner LA Fund are not affiliated with or endorsed by Thrivent.
Maxwell Balbin earns Behavioral Financial Advisor™️ Designation
Walnut Creek, CA (December 8, 2025) – Maxwell Balbin, BFA™️, Financial Advisor with Thrivent, a diversified financial services organization, recently earned the Behavioral Financial Advisor™️ (BFA™️) designation granted by think2perform®️.
The BFA™️ program provides training to demonstrate how traditional finance practices are influenced by psychology and neuroscience to help financial professionals mentor and coach clients in their financial decisions, transition to advice-based fees, and offer a holistic approach to strengthen the advisor-client relationship. To receive the BFA™️ certification, candidates must successfully complete the BFA™️ education program and pass the final exam. Continuing education requirements to maintain the BFATM designation must be satisfied every two years.
“At Thrivent, we believe money is a tool, not a goal,” said Marc Henderson, Market Director. “Our objective is to help each of our clients develop a purpose-based approach to their finances that takes into consideration how their values and beliefs drive their financial behaviors. This designation has equipped Maxwell with the skills and tools he’ll need to have these important conversations with clients.”
As a holistic financial services organization, Thrivent helps clients achieve financial clarity, enabling lives full of meaning and gratitude. Through offering advice, investments, insurance, banking and generosity programs and solutions, our financial professionals strive to help people make the most of all they’ve been given.
Thrivent has opportunities for talented individuals to join the organization. Those interested in a career with Thrivent can visit www.thrivent.com/careers.
1think2perform – Deepen Your Client Relationships: Deepen your client relationships. | Think2Perform
About Thrivent
Thrivent is a Fortune 500 financial services company that helps build, grow and protect financial well-being through purpose-driven advice, investments, insurance, banking and generosity programs. Thrivent serves more than 2.4 million clients through thousands of financial advisors across the country and has more than $193 billion in assets under management/advisement (as of 12/31/24). Thrivent carries strong financial ratings from independent rating agencies - including AM Best, Moody's and S&P Global Ratings - which demonstrate the company’s financial strength, stability and ability to pay claims. Ratings don't apply to investment product performance and more information can be found on each rating agency's website. For more information about Thrivent, visit Thrivent.com or find us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.
Celebrating Generosity: Thrivent & Reading Partners Unite for Giving Tuesday in Los Angeles
On December 2, Thrivent’s Los Angeles team joined forces with Reading Partners for a Giving Tuesday activation that truly embodied the spirit of generosity. This collaboration wasn’t just about raising funds—it was about rallying a community to empower young readers and strengthen local schools.
Reading Partners, a national nonprofit, partners with under-resourced schools to provide one-on-one tutoring that builds literacy skills and confidence. For Giving Tuesday, Thrivent amplified this mission by matching donations: for every $2 given, Thrivent added $1, up to $20,000 per Thrivent Member Network. This match helped multiply impact and ensure students have the tools they need to thrive.
The Los Angeles activation was more than a fundraiser—it was a celebration. Our team gathered with Reading Partners staff, volunteers, and board members for a day of connection and purpose. As Virginia Lee, Executive Director of Reading Partners Los Angeles, shared in her thank-you note:
“We’re grateful for your generosity and for believing in Reading Partners and our scholars. It’s truly a joy to partner with you. I’m excited for what we’ll create together to make sure our students have what they need to thrive.”
The event included a campus visit to the reading center, a big check presentation, and a celebration lunch that left everyone feeling appreciated and inspired. “Kayla and I felt seen and appreciated,” Virginia added—a reminder that these moments of partnership matter as much as the dollars raised.
This Giving Tuesday wasn’t just a local success—it was part of a nationwide movement. Across the country, Thrivent members and partners raised $1.4 million, with 3,627 participants joining in to support causes that matter. Together, we proved that generosity is contagious and that small acts can create big change.
Thanks to the dedication of Thrivent team members and the generosity of our community, this Giving Tuesday was a success. Together, we’re helping students in Los Angeles unlock the power of reading—a gift that lasts a lifetime.
Stay tuned for photos from the event, and join us in continuing to support Reading Partners’ incredible work. Because when we give together, we grow together.
The LA Latino Chamber of Commerce hosted its holiday gathering with a clear sense of purpose. The chamber has long served as a key resource for Latino entrepreneurs across Los Angeles, offering support, advocacy, and access for business owners working to grow.
Thrivent leaders joined the celebration as they begin building a deeper partnership with the chamber. The photo features members of the Thrivent team: Laura Arrona, Luz Collazo, Sonia Navarro, Argam Aghazarian and Marc Henderson. Each plays a role in expanding Thrivent’s reach and support within the community.
The evening included a focused conversation between Anna Sauceda of the chamber and Thrivent’s leadership about the vision for 2026. Their discussion centered on creating meaningful support for Latino business owners through education, community outreach, and resources that help families and businesses move forward.
Sonia Navarro, Thrivent’s Engagement Leader and Partnership Specialist, has been guiding the relationship-building behind this effort. Her work, along with the steady contributions of Laura and others on the team, laid the groundwork for what both organizations hope will be a strong and lasting partnership.
This moment marks the start of a shared commitment to growth, access, and community impact. Both teams are preparing for a year of collaboration built on trust and a clear mission to serve.
If you own a home, investments, life insurance or other valuable assets, it might be time to consider a revocable or irrevocable trust.
Depending on the structure you choose, a trust can offer a variety of benefits—including privacy, tax advantages and greater control over how your assets are distributed. In some cases, it may even protect your assets from creditors or Medicaid inclusion.
Learn more about your options: https://bit.ly/3VZ6FNl
The transition from being your parents’ child to being their protector isn’t easy—but having open conversations is essential. Understanding their wishes and knowing where key estate planning documents are kept can make all the difference when it matters most.
Here’s how to approach these conversations with empathy and clarity. ⬇️
see thrivent.com/social for important disclosures.
Many people are surprised to learn that Medicare and Medicaid don’t provide the extended care coverage they expect. That’s why having a long-term care strategy can be an essential part of your financial plan. Not only does it help protect your savings—it can also preserve your choices.
Thrivent is not connected with or endorsed by the U.S. government or the federal Medicare program.
November 2025 Market Update: Less data, lower rates, strong stocksOctober closed strong, and November is shaping up to be pivotal. AI-driven sectors continue to lead, while Fed rate cuts signal cautious optimism. Want to know what this means for portfolios? Dive into Thrivent's November Market Update for actionable insights.
It’s hard to believe the year is already winding down! While shopping, baking and holiday gatherings may be at the top of your to-do list, don’t forget to carve out time for a year-end financial checkup.
Taking these 6 steps now can help you minimize your taxes, strengthen your savings and start the new year on solid footing.
👉 If you’d like personalized guidance, let’s connect.
See thrivent.com/social for important disclosures. Thrivent and its financial advisors and professionals do not provide legal, accounting or tax advice. Consult your attorney or tax professional.
Sequence of returns risk: What it means for your retirementThe market can shift at any time, and big drops early in retirement could affect your savings. The right approach can help keep your savings resilient. Check out this article, then reach out to talk through ways to help protect your savings.👇
Help your money last in retirementA long life is a gift—let’s help make sure your finances can keep up. Start by building financial resilience against inflation, market swings, and rising health and care costs.
4th Quarter 2025 Market Outlook: Strong markets, weakening fundamentalsThrivent leadership shares expectations for final markets through year-end in the 4th Quarter 2025 Market Outlook.
Estate planning begins with thoughtful decisions about your loved ones, your assets and your wishes for who and what matters most. Here are some tools to help you take the first step: https://bit.ly/4nl6Myk
Updating your life insurance: 7 life events that may affect your coverageIf you’re in one of these 7 life stages, it may be time to update your life insurance coverage. ⬇️
What you need to know about legacy planning & how to get startedWhy is legacy planning important? Because it gives you the chance to make a lasting impact—supporting the people and causes you care about, while staying in control over who receives what, when and how. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you begin. ↓
Both traditional and Roth IRAs can be a powerful, tax-advantaged way to grow your retirement savings outside of a workplace plan. However, some key differences may impact your taxes, the timing of your withdrawals—and potentially your available savings.
Wondering which option is right for you? Here’s what you need to know: https://bit.ly/3KcjPnB
