Market Commentary

This past year, and September and October in particular, has been extremely tough for the financial markets. By contrast to October 2007 when we experienced market highs, we are now seeing an overall retreat in excess of 40%. It is difficult to avoid hearing the latest distressing headline and its implications on the economy and financial markets. These are trying times triggered by unprecedented events in the financial marketplace.

Don’t get discouraged. There are two things that are pretty close to guarantees: college is not going to get less expensive and the markets will continue to be volatile.

While it seems the exact opposite of what we would like to do, investors should consider increasing the amount they are saving each month. With history as a guide, the markets will always be volatile, and over the long-term, increase in value. By increasing your monthly contributions, you can make a meaningful difference in the amount of funds that will be available when college arrives.

Articles of Interest

Memo to the Wary Investor

Investment Products: Not FDIC Insured. No Bank Guarantee. May Lose Value.

The Bright Directions College Savings Program is part of the Illinois College Savings Pool and is designed to qualify as a qualified tuition program under the provisions of Section 529 of the Internal Revenue Code. The Bright Directions College Savings Program is sponsored by the State of Illinois and administered by the Illinois State Treasurer, as Trustee. Union Bank & Trust Company serves as Program Manager, and Northern Trust Securities, Inc., acts as Distributor.

You should be aware that other states may sponsor their own qualified tuition plans and may offer a state tax deduction or other benefits that are limited to residents who invest in that plan. You should consult with a tax advisor about state and local taxes.

Withdrawals used to pay for qualified higher education expenses are income TAX-FREE (Federal and State of Illinois). Qualified higher education expenses include tuition, fees, books, supplies, and equipment required for enrollment at a qualified institution of higher education. Room and board is considered a qualified higher education expense if the student is enrolled on at least a half-time basis.

Every individual’s tax situation is different, and it is important to consult a qualified tax advisor regarding the application of the Program’s benefits to your own individual situation.

There is no guarantee that any investment portfolio will achieve its investment goals. The value of an account will go up or down based on the performance of the Portfolio in which the account is invested. When funds are withdrawn, they may have more or less than the total contributions made to the account. Past investment performance is no guarantee of future results.

Investments in the Bright Directions College Savings Program are not guaranteed or insured by the State of Illinois, the Illinois State Treasurer, Union Bank & Trust Company, Northern Trust Securities, Inc., the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, or any other entity. An investor should consider the investment objectives, risks, and charges and expenses associated with municipal fund securities and the underlying investment companies before investing. Please contact your investment professional or call 866–722–7283 to obtain a Program Disclosure Statement (issuer’s official statement) or prospectus for any of the underlying funds. Please read the Program Disclosure Statement carefully prior to investing.