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Holiday sale frenzy? Swap one item for a deposit

·UNest·Uncategorized

What’s happening

Online holiday shopping is on track to hit another record. Adobe Analytics projects $253.4 billion in U.S. online sales for November–December, up 5.3% from 2024. Expect heavy discounts and early promotions—Amazon’s October deal days and a strong Cyber Monday are already in play (Reuters, 2025-10-06).

Mastercard’s latest outlook also points to brisk spending, with online sales expected to rise about 7.9% as shoppers chase value and manage tighter budgets (Reuters, 2025-09-18).

Why it matters for your family

Deal season can make it easy to overspend on “just one more thing.” But your budget—and your child’s future—benefit more from consistency than flash sales. Try this simple rule: for every online checkout, remove one non-essential item and move that same amount into your child’s account. It’s a mindful swap that turns impulse into progress.

**Hook to remember:**One less gadget. One more deposit.

Tiny move today (5 minutes)

  1. **Open a **UNest UTMA—a custodial account for your child.
  2. Automate a monthly contribution—even $25/month adds up over time.
  3. Use the “Skip 1 → Fund 1” rule: delete one cart extra and transfer that amount.
  4. Share your UNest gift link with a relative who loves giving meaningful presents.

Small, steady deposits can quietly build options for your child—without relying on big windfalls or perfect timing.

**Open a **UNest UTMA and start your monthly contribution today.

How to do the “Skip 1 → Fund 1” rule

  • Before checkout: remove an accessory, duplicate toy, or extra item.
  • Match the dollars: if you saved $28, deposit $28 into the UTMA.
  • Make it automatic: schedule your monthly transfer so the habit sticks year-round.
  • Name the goal: “Maya’s Future” or “Eli’s First Laptop” keeps motivation real.

UTMA vs. 529 (simple)

  • UTMA: A custodial account for a minor. Funds must benefit your child and can cover more than college—like laptops, braces, sports fees, or camps. Assets usually transfer at your state’s age of majority. Gifts are irrevocable.
  • 529: Designed for education expenses with potential tax benefits if used for qualified schooling. State rules vary, so compare based on your goals.

If money’s tight

Start small. Even $25 a month builds the habit. You can pause or adjust whenever life shifts. Progress matters more than the starting amount.

FAQs

  • What if the sale is too good? Buy what’s needed—then still remove one “nice-to-have” and match that amount to the UTMA.
  • Is the money safe? A UTMA is a custodial investment account, not a bank account; investments can lose value.
  • Can family add money? Yes—share your UNest gift link so relatives can easily contribute.

Sources

  • Reuters (2025-10-06): Adobe Analytics forecasts U.S. online holiday sales of $253.4 B (+5.3%) with early October promos and strong Cyber Monday.
  • Reuters (2025-09-18): Mastercard SpendingPulse sees ~7.9% online sales growth, shoppers seeking value.

Keywords: #HolidaySpending #UTMA #FamilyFinance #SavingForKids