Mary Ellen Passanisi
Vice President, Wealth Management Associate
Phone:
(631) 851-5340(631) 851-5340
Gary Backer, CFP®
First Vice President, Wealth Management,
Financial Advisor
Direct:
(631) 851-5388(631) 851-5388
Toll-Free:
(800) 233-9195(800) 233-9195
My Mission Statement
Excellence in family wealth planning, financial planning, and estate planning for your family's unique goals
Gary Backer
With over 25 years of experience in the financial services industry, Gary Backer is dedicated to helping individuals and families achieve financial success. As a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional, Gary focuses on crafting tailored financial plans that address each client's unique goals, from retirement planning and investment strategies, to tax optimization and wealth management strategies.
A proud alumnus of Stony Brook University, Gary has built a reputation for his dedication and commitment to guiding clients through the complexities of personal finance. His approach is client-focused, with an emphasis on education, trust, and long-term relationships. Gary is passionate about providing clear, actionable advice that helps empower his clients to make confident, informed decisions about their financial futures.
Outside of his professional life, Gary values spending quality time with his daughter, Avery. Whether skiing, hiking, or simply hanging out, he enjoys making the most of his free time exploring the outdoors and creating lasting memories.
With a deep commitment to helping you plan for tomorrow; Gary is here to guide you on your financial journey. Reach out today for help on starting a plan for a prosperous future.
A proud alumnus of Stony Brook University, Gary has built a reputation for his dedication and commitment to guiding clients through the complexities of personal finance. His approach is client-focused, with an emphasis on education, trust, and long-term relationships. Gary is passionate about providing clear, actionable advice that helps empower his clients to make confident, informed decisions about their financial futures.
Outside of his professional life, Gary values spending quality time with his daughter, Avery. Whether skiing, hiking, or simply hanging out, he enjoys making the most of his free time exploring the outdoors and creating lasting memories.
With a deep commitment to helping you plan for tomorrow; Gary is here to guide you on your financial journey. Reach out today for help on starting a plan for a prosperous future.
Securities Agent: ID, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, PR, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VI, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY, IL, AK, AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, HI, IA; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative
NMLS#: 1347303
NMLS#: 1347303
Check the background of Our Firm and Investment Professionals on FINRA's BrokerCheck.*
Working With You & Your Family
My process begins and ends with listening. I ask questions about what is important to you, your family and your legacy...and then I listen. Through each step, I provide objective advice and investment insights to construct a wealth management plan that is uniquely yours.
While each client has a unique set of goals and circumstances, they all have one thing in common: They need help simplifying their finances and developing a comprehensive and cohesive wealth strategy. My objective is to serve as your personal CFO, simplify your life, and help you effectively manage and protect your assets, so you may enjoy your wealth and leave the legacy you desire.
While each client has a unique set of goals and circumstances, they all have one thing in common: They need help simplifying their finances and developing a comprehensive and cohesive wealth strategy. My objective is to serve as your personal CFO, simplify your life, and help you effectively manage and protect your assets, so you may enjoy your wealth and leave the legacy you desire.
Step 1: Initial Conversation
We begin with an informal discussion to understand your financial concerns and determine how I can add value. This is your opportunity to interview me, as I get to know you. If we agree to move forward, we'll schedule our next meeting and request important financial information.
Step 2: Face-to-Face Meeting
We continue the dialogue by fostering an in-depth conversation where I learn about the values that shape your decisions and identify any unique circumstances. I will also review the documents you've prepared and begin to define your priorities.
Step 3: Analysis & Strategy Development
Here, I may utilize proprietary financial planning tools to develop a personalized and detailed strategy with recommendations to help you grow, preserve and transfer your wealth. This serves as the foundation for building your initial plan, as well as future investment decisions.
Step 4: Recommendations & Implementation
In this step, I present appropriate investment options that, once executed, are designed to work together to achieve your goals. Upon your approval, my goal is to execute the investment recommendations and begin to implement the additional wealth management strategies we've discussed. These often encompass risk management, as well as estate, trust and philanthropic planning.
Step 5: Ongoing Stewardship
Committed to premium service, I focus on developing a relationship that provides special value to you and your family. As each strategy is executed, I'll set up tools so you have immediate access to your account information. And because markets and personal needs evolve over time, we set up recurring meetings to help ensure your plan remains designed to achieve your goals.
Financial Literacy
Financial literacy is the key to financial success. Here are some great resources.
Saving vs Investing: Why the difference matters
Many people use the terms “saving” and “investing” interchangeably. While these two concepts are related, they aren’t exactly equal.
Click here to learn more
The Millennial and Gen Z Guide to a Sweet Retirement
Learn how the power of time can help young investors grow an impressive portfolio.
Click here to learn more
Having Financial Goals is Key to Investing
With a clear goal in mind, investors can create a realistic plan for achieving their objectives within a certain time frame.
Click here to learn more
How to Save for an Emergency Fund
We all know we should have money set aside for emergencies. Here’s how to go about it.
Click here to learn moreTHE CFP® PROFESSIONAL
Individuals certified by the CFP® board have taken the extra step to demonstrate commitment and professionalism by voluntarily submitting to the rigorous CFP® certification process that includes demanding education, examination, experience, and ethical requirements. These four cornerstones set the foundation for the CFP® professional's ability in helping clients achieve their goals. My diverse skillset can help clients navigate the complicated financial factors in their life. See below for more information about the CFP® designation and how we can help:
Education
The CFP® professional must develop theoretical and practical financial planning knowledge by completing 2 to 3 years of comprehensive coursework at an institution of higher learning approved by the CFP® Board. Once obtaining the CFP® trademark, their education does not stop, as continued education is part of the recertification process.
Examination
The CFP® professional must pass the 7 hour comprehensive Certification Exam, which tests abilities to apply financial planning knowledge to real-life situations. The exam covers the financial planning process, tax planning, employee benefits, retirement planning, estate planning, Investment management and insurance.
Experience
All CFP® professionals are required to complete several years of experience related to financial planning services prior to earning the right to use the CFP® trademarks.
Ethics
The CFP® professionals is obligated to uphold the principles of integrity, objectivity, competence, fairness, confidentiality, professionalism, and diligence as outline in the CFP® Board's Code of Ethics. The Rules of conduct require the CFP® professional to put their client's interest first above all else.
Tools to simplify your financial planning needs
Morgan Stanley's suite of Modern Wealth Management Tools allows advisors to offer more customized and comprehensive advice than anywhere else. These tools' ease of use allows for a more in-depth view of a client's financial life to be taken, resulting in better service and more well-rounded advice.
My goal is for your financial journey to be as streamline as possible. If you should have any questions about the usage, enrollment, benefits, or functionalities involved with any of the below tools, please do not hesitate to reach out to myself or one of my associates. We look forward to speaking with you.
- No Cash Management Fees
- Exceptional Access and Value
- Comprehensive Protection
- Seamless Digital Experience
Morgan Stanley Online
Morgan Stanley Online allows you to seamlessly and securely manage your investments and everyday finances in one place.
Total Wealth View
Managing multiple financial accounts across different firms can be complicated. With Morgan Stanley Online, you can link your non-Morgan Stanley accounts and analyze your cash flow all in one place.
Digital Vault
Digital Vault lets you easily and securely manage and share important documents such as account statements, authorizations, tax filings and other relevant documents with your Financial Advisor.
eAuthorization
eAuthorizations allows you to approve transactions electronically and securely on Morgan Stanley Online and the Morgan Stanley Mobile App.
Cash Management
Because you manage your investments with Morgan Stanley, you now have a better way of managing your cash needs with a CashPlus Brokerage Account.
Spending & Budgeting Tool
As a Morgan Stanley client, you have access to Spending & Budgeting tools to help you manage your cash flow across all of your accounts at Morgan Stanley, as well as those held at outside financial institutions. These tools, available on MSO and the Morgan Stanley App, allow you to track spending patterns using cash flow, income and expense analysis.
Location
888 Veterans Memorial Hwy
Ste 300
Hauppauge, NY 11788
US
Direct:
(631) 851-5388(631) 851-5388
Toll-Free:
(800) 233-9195(800) 233-9195
Fax:
(631) 693-2854(631) 693-2854
Meet My Team
Elizabeth Golden
Portfolio Associate
Phone:
(631) 851-5341(631) 851-5341
About Mary Ellen Passanisi
With more than 25 years of industry experience, Mary Ellen A. Passanisi is a Vice President and Wealth Management Associate with the 454 Group at Morgan Stanley. She focuses on helping ensure clients’ wealth management needs are met with diligence and in alignment with their broader financial goals, bringing deep service and operational experience to the team.
Mary Ellen is a graduate of Stony Brook University (State University of New York) and earned an MBA in Banking and Finance from Dowling College. She joined Morgan Stanley in 2000 and has worked with Dan Liff, founder of the 454 Group, since 2006. She holds Series 7 and Series 63 licenses, along with the New York State Life, Health, and Annuities insurance licenses.
Known for her strong work ethic and client-centered approach, Mary Ellen has extensive experience partnering with clients through onboarding and financial planning processes. As an integral part of the 454 Group, she builds trusted relationships, helps resolve inquiries, and anticipates needs with a personal, detail-oriented approach designed to make the client experience as seamless as possible.
Mary Ellen was selected to serve on Morgan Stanley’s Support Professional Advisory Council from 2023–2025, a 20-member group that provides a feedback channel between branch service teams, Senior Leadership, and the Home Office, with a focus on service initiatives and enhancements. She has also participated in pilot programs, testing new platforms ahead of firm-wide releases. From 2020–2024, she was handpicked as a Market Coach, supporting the onboarding of Support Professionals and helping elevate sales and service initiatives through business partner insights and peer-to-peer coaching. In Q1 2026, she earned the Cash Engagement Specialist designation, reflecting her commitment to deepening expertise in cash management solutions and delivering exceptional client service through consistent client engagement, recurring deposit activity, and completion of required Cash Management training.
Outside of work, Mary Ellen enjoys spending time with family, traveling, genealogy, and reading. She is active in her community, including involvement with the Middle Country Boys Lacrosse Booster organization and The Beading Hearts, which is dedicated to giving back by visiting jails and sober homes, raising awareness about addiction, helping reduce stigma associated with overdose deaths, and supporting the newly bereaved while honoring loved ones.
Mary Ellen is a graduate of Stony Brook University (State University of New York) and earned an MBA in Banking and Finance from Dowling College. She joined Morgan Stanley in 2000 and has worked with Dan Liff, founder of the 454 Group, since 2006. She holds Series 7 and Series 63 licenses, along with the New York State Life, Health, and Annuities insurance licenses.
Known for her strong work ethic and client-centered approach, Mary Ellen has extensive experience partnering with clients through onboarding and financial planning processes. As an integral part of the 454 Group, she builds trusted relationships, helps resolve inquiries, and anticipates needs with a personal, detail-oriented approach designed to make the client experience as seamless as possible.
Mary Ellen was selected to serve on Morgan Stanley’s Support Professional Advisory Council from 2023–2025, a 20-member group that provides a feedback channel between branch service teams, Senior Leadership, and the Home Office, with a focus on service initiatives and enhancements. She has also participated in pilot programs, testing new platforms ahead of firm-wide releases. From 2020–2024, she was handpicked as a Market Coach, supporting the onboarding of Support Professionals and helping elevate sales and service initiatives through business partner insights and peer-to-peer coaching. In Q1 2026, she earned the Cash Engagement Specialist designation, reflecting her commitment to deepening expertise in cash management solutions and delivering exceptional client service through consistent client engagement, recurring deposit activity, and completion of required Cash Management training.
Outside of work, Mary Ellen enjoys spending time with family, traveling, genealogy, and reading. She is active in her community, including involvement with the Middle Country Boys Lacrosse Booster organization and The Beading Hearts, which is dedicated to giving back by visiting jails and sober homes, raising awareness about addiction, helping reduce stigma associated with overdose deaths, and supporting the newly bereaved while honoring loved ones.
About Elizabeth Golden
Elizabeth Golden is a Portfolio Associate with The 454 Group at Morgan Stanley. With more than 20 years of industry experience, she focuses on maintaining effective client relationships and providing operational, administrative, and account maintenance services. Elizabeth is Series 7 and 63 licensed.
Drawing on her extensive experience, Elizabeth tends to clients’ needs with a meticulous attention to detail and attentive care. Whether helping with annuities, 401(k) rollovers, or the transfer of accounts, she embraces challenges and helps resolve inquiries in a timely manner that ensures the process is smooth and that clients are well-informed from beginning to end.
Outside of work, Elizabeth enjoys spending time with family and friends.
Drawing on her extensive experience, Elizabeth tends to clients’ needs with a meticulous attention to detail and attentive care. Whether helping with annuities, 401(k) rollovers, or the transfer of accounts, she embraces challenges and helps resolve inquiries in a timely manner that ensures the process is smooth and that clients are well-informed from beginning to end.
Outside of work, Elizabeth enjoys spending time with family and friends.
The Power of Partnerships
By partnering with experienced individuals across wealth disciplines, Morgan Stanley Financial Advisors can align specialized resources with your custom needs and deliver strategic guidance through the familiarity and trust of existing relationships
Shawn Alvarado
Private Banker
John Traynor CFP®, CPWA®
Financial Planning Director, Vice President
About Shawn Alvarado
Shawn Alvarado is a Private Banker serving Morgan Stanley Wealth Management offices in New York.
Private Bankers partner with Financial Advisors to develop a specialized approach for managing clients’ cash flow, liquidity and financing needs, leveraging our comprehensive suite of cash management and lending solutions.
Shawn began his career in financial services in 2003 and joined Morgan Stanley in 2020. Prior to joining the firm, he was a Citigold Private Client Relationship Manager at Citibank and a Wealth Management Banker at Merrill Lynch.
Shawn is a graduate of Montclair State University, where he received a Bachelor of Science in Finance. He lives in Salisbury, New York with his family. Outside of the office, Shawn enjoys golfing and coaching his kid’s baseball and football teams.
Private Bankers partner with Financial Advisors to develop a specialized approach for managing clients’ cash flow, liquidity and financing needs, leveraging our comprehensive suite of cash management and lending solutions.
Shawn began his career in financial services in 2003 and joined Morgan Stanley in 2020. Prior to joining the firm, he was a Citigold Private Client Relationship Manager at Citibank and a Wealth Management Banker at Merrill Lynch.
Shawn is a graduate of Montclair State University, where he received a Bachelor of Science in Finance. He lives in Salisbury, New York with his family. Outside of the office, Shawn enjoys golfing and coaching his kid’s baseball and football teams.
NMLS#: 642179
About John Traynor CFP®, CPWA®
John Traynor, CFP®, CPWA® is a seasoned wealth management and financial planning professional with more than 15 years of experience advising high-net-worth and ultra-high-net-worth individuals and families.
Prior to joining Morgan Stanley, John spent six years at Fiduciary Trust International, a wholly owned subsidiary of Franklin Templeton, where he served as a senior wealth planner and relationship manager. In that role, he partnered with clients and their families on complex planning matters across the full spectrum of wealth management.
John began his career in 2010 at UBS, where he spent six years in wealth management, advising clients on a broad range of financial planning and wealth strategy topics. He has also held financial planning roles at Jefferies and LearnVest, further broadening his experience across advisory platforms and client needs.
John is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and Certified Private Wealth Advisor® (CPWA®) professional, specializing in comprehensive financial planning. As the financial planning director for Eastern Long Island, he partners with advisors and their service teams to deliver strategic, integrated guidance across key planning areas, including cash-flow analysis, tax and transaction strategy, retirement management, employee stock option and deferred compensation planning, wealth transfer and estate strategies, philanthropy, and liability and risk management. John earned a Bachelor of Science degree in business information systems, with a minor in management, from Fairfield University’s Charles F. Dolan School of Business. Further, as part of earning his CPWA® designation, he completed the Wealth Management Theory & Practice education program through the Yale School of Management. Outside of work, John enjoys spending time with his wife, two young children and their dog, as well as playing golf, enjoying music, and following the New York Mets and New York Jets.
DISCLOSURE:
Important information about your relationship with your Financial Advisor and Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC when using a Financial Planning tool. When your Financial Advisor prepares a Financial Plan, they will act in an investment advisory capacity for thirty (30) days after the delivery of your Financial Plan. To understand the differences between brokerage and advisory relationships, you should consult your Financial Advisor, or review our “Understanding Your Brokerage and Investment Advisory Relationships,” brochure available at https://www.morganstanley.com/wealth-relationshipwithms/pdfs/understandingyourrelationship.pdf.
You have sole responsibility for making all investment decisions with respect to the implementation of a Financial Plan. You may implement the Financial Plan at Morgan Stanley or at another firm. If you engage or have engaged Morgan Stanley, it will act as your broker, unless you ask it, in writing, to act as your investment adviser on any particular account.
Morgan Stanley offers a wide array of brokerage and advisory services to its clients, each of which may create a different type of relationship with different obligations to you. Please consult with your Financial Advisor to understand these differences.
Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (“Morgan Stanley”), its affiliates and Morgan Stanley Financial Advisors and Private Wealth Advisors do not provide tax or legal advice. Clients should consult their tax advisor for matters involving taxation and tax planning and their attorney for matters involving trust and estate planning, charitable giving, philanthropic planning and other legal matters.
© 2026 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC.
Prior to joining Morgan Stanley, John spent six years at Fiduciary Trust International, a wholly owned subsidiary of Franklin Templeton, where he served as a senior wealth planner and relationship manager. In that role, he partnered with clients and their families on complex planning matters across the full spectrum of wealth management.
John began his career in 2010 at UBS, where he spent six years in wealth management, advising clients on a broad range of financial planning and wealth strategy topics. He has also held financial planning roles at Jefferies and LearnVest, further broadening his experience across advisory platforms and client needs.
John is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and Certified Private Wealth Advisor® (CPWA®) professional, specializing in comprehensive financial planning. As the financial planning director for Eastern Long Island, he partners with advisors and their service teams to deliver strategic, integrated guidance across key planning areas, including cash-flow analysis, tax and transaction strategy, retirement management, employee stock option and deferred compensation planning, wealth transfer and estate strategies, philanthropy, and liability and risk management. John earned a Bachelor of Science degree in business information systems, with a minor in management, from Fairfield University’s Charles F. Dolan School of Business. Further, as part of earning his CPWA® designation, he completed the Wealth Management Theory & Practice education program through the Yale School of Management. Outside of work, John enjoys spending time with his wife, two young children and their dog, as well as playing golf, enjoying music, and following the New York Mets and New York Jets.
DISCLOSURE:
Important information about your relationship with your Financial Advisor and Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC when using a Financial Planning tool. When your Financial Advisor prepares a Financial Plan, they will act in an investment advisory capacity for thirty (30) days after the delivery of your Financial Plan. To understand the differences between brokerage and advisory relationships, you should consult your Financial Advisor, or review our “Understanding Your Brokerage and Investment Advisory Relationships,” brochure available at https://www.morganstanley.com/wealth-relationshipwithms/pdfs/understandingyourrelationship.pdf.
You have sole responsibility for making all investment decisions with respect to the implementation of a Financial Plan. You may implement the Financial Plan at Morgan Stanley or at another firm. If you engage or have engaged Morgan Stanley, it will act as your broker, unless you ask it, in writing, to act as your investment adviser on any particular account.
Morgan Stanley offers a wide array of brokerage and advisory services to its clients, each of which may create a different type of relationship with different obligations to you. Please consult with your Financial Advisor to understand these differences.
Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (“Morgan Stanley”), its affiliates and Morgan Stanley Financial Advisors and Private Wealth Advisors do not provide tax or legal advice. Clients should consult their tax advisor for matters involving taxation and tax planning and their attorney for matters involving trust and estate planning, charitable giving, philanthropic planning and other legal matters.
© 2026 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC.
Private Banking Group (PBG) Market Managers, Senior Private Bankers, Private Bankers, and Associate Private Bankers are employees of Morgan Stanley Private Bank, National Association.
Banking products and services are offered by Morgan Stanley Private Bank, National Association, Member FDIC.
Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC is a registered Broker/Dealer, Member SIPC, and not a bank. Where appropriate, Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC has entered into arrangements with banks and other third parties to assist in offering certain banking related products and services.
Investment, insurance and annuity products offered through Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC are: NOT FDIC INSURED | MAY LOSE VALUE | NOT BANK GUARANTEED | NOT A BANK DEPOSIT | NOT INSURED BY ANY FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AGENCY
Important information about your relationship with your Financial Advisor and Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC when using a Financial Planning tool. When your Financial Advisor prepares a Financial Plan, they will act in an investment advisory capacity for thirty (30) days after the delivery of your Financial Plan. To understand the differences between brokerage and advisory relationships, you should consult your Financial Advisor, or review our “Understanding Your Brokerage and Investment Advisory Relationships,” brochure available at https://www.morganstanley.com/wealth-relationshipwithms/pdfs/understandingyourrelationship.pdf.
You have sole responsibility for making all investment decisions with respect to the implementation of a Financial Plan. You may implement the Financial Plan at Morgan Stanley or at another firm. If you engage or have engaged Morgan Stanley, it will act as your broker, unless you ask it, in writing, to act as your investment adviser on any particular account.
Morgan Stanley offers a wide array of brokerage and advisory services to its clients, each of which may create a different type of relationship with different obligations to you. Please consult with your Financial Advisor to understand these differences.
Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (“Morgan Stanley”), its affiliates and Morgan Stanley Financial Advisors and Private Wealth Advisors do not provide tax or legal advice. Clients should consult their tax advisor for matters involving taxation and tax planning and their attorney for matters involving trust and estate planning, charitable giving, philanthropic planning and other legal matters.
Banking products and services are offered by Morgan Stanley Private Bank, National Association, Member FDIC.
Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC is a registered Broker/Dealer, Member SIPC, and not a bank. Where appropriate, Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC has entered into arrangements with banks and other third parties to assist in offering certain banking related products and services.
Investment, insurance and annuity products offered through Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC are: NOT FDIC INSURED | MAY LOSE VALUE | NOT BANK GUARANTEED | NOT A BANK DEPOSIT | NOT INSURED BY ANY FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AGENCY
Important information about your relationship with your Financial Advisor and Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC when using a Financial Planning tool. When your Financial Advisor prepares a Financial Plan, they will act in an investment advisory capacity for thirty (30) days after the delivery of your Financial Plan. To understand the differences between brokerage and advisory relationships, you should consult your Financial Advisor, or review our “Understanding Your Brokerage and Investment Advisory Relationships,” brochure available at https://www.morganstanley.com/wealth-relationshipwithms/pdfs/understandingyourrelationship.pdf.
You have sole responsibility for making all investment decisions with respect to the implementation of a Financial Plan. You may implement the Financial Plan at Morgan Stanley or at another firm. If you engage or have engaged Morgan Stanley, it will act as your broker, unless you ask it, in writing, to act as your investment adviser on any particular account.
Morgan Stanley offers a wide array of brokerage and advisory services to its clients, each of which may create a different type of relationship with different obligations to you. Please consult with your Financial Advisor to understand these differences.
Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (“Morgan Stanley”), its affiliates and Morgan Stanley Financial Advisors and Private Wealth Advisors do not provide tax or legal advice. Clients should consult their tax advisor for matters involving taxation and tax planning and their attorney for matters involving trust and estate planning, charitable giving, philanthropic planning and other legal matters.
Wealth Management
Global Investment Office
Portfolio Insights
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Retirement
Working with you to understand your life goals and develop a personalized wealth strategy. Today and for the years to come.
- 401(k) Rollovers
- IRA Plans
- Retirement income strategies
- Retirement plan participants
- Annuities
A Simple Six-Step Retirement Checkup
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Investing
Working closely with you to guide your wealth and investments through the most challenging market cycles.
- Asset Management
- Wealth Planning
- Traditional Investments
- Alternative Investments
- Impact Investing
Iran Conflict: Seven Takeaways for Investors
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Family
Creating customized financial strategies for the challenges that today’s families face.
- Estate Planning Strategies
- 529 Plans / Education Savings Planning
- Long Term Care Insurance
- Special Needs Planning
- Trust Services
529 Plans: A Powerful Tool to Save for Education
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Business Planning
Helping you on key aspects of your business such as ownership, liquidity and developing opportunities.
- Succession Planning
- Business Planning
- Qualified Retirement Plans
Financial Planning for Life After Selling a Business
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Philanthropy
Making sure your philanthropic dollars are managed with the same high quality service as the rest of your wealth.
- Endowments
- Foundations
- Donor Advised Funds
- Impact Investing
Financial Wellness
Enhancing Financial Wellness enables your workforce to do their best work. Companies that invest in financial wellness have an opportunity to:
- Reduce employee stress,
- Improve retention and engagement, and
- Set themselves apart by offering comprehensive financial wellness benefits.
Ready to start a conversation? Contact Gary Backer today.
Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Center for Financial Planning, Inc. owns and licenses the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®, and CFP® (with plaque design) in the United States to Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc., which authorizes individuals who successfully complete the organization’s initial and ongoing certification requirements to use the certification marks.
1Morgan Stanley Wealth Management is the trade name of Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC, a registered broker-dealer in the United States. Morgan Stanley Wealth Management is a business of Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC.
For more information, please see the Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC Client Relationship Summary.
2Morgan Stanley offers a wide array of brokerage and advisory services to its clients, each of which may create a different type of relationship with different obligations to you. Please consult with your Financial Advisor to understand these differences or review our Understanding Your Brokerage and Investment Advisory Relationships brochure available at www.morganstanley.com/wealth-relationshipwithms/pdfs/understandingyourrelationship.pdf.
3Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (“Morgan Stanley”), its affiliates and Morgan Stanley Financial Advisors and Private Wealth Advisors do not provide tax or legal advice. Clients should consult their tax advisor for matters involving taxation and tax planning and their attorney for matters involving trust and estate planning and other legal matters.
4When Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC, its affiliates and Morgan Stanley Financial Advisors and Private Wealth Advisors (collectively, “Morgan Stanley”) provide “investment advice” regarding a retirement or welfare benefit plan account, an individual retirement account or a Coverdell education savings account (“Retirement Account”), Morgan Stanley is a “fiduciary” as those terms are defined under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended (“ERISA”), and/or the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (the “Code”), as applicable. When Morgan Stanley provides investment education, takes orders on an unsolicited basis or otherwise does not provide “investment advice”, Morgan Stanley will not be considered a “fiduciary” under ERISA and/or the Code. For more information regarding Morgan Stanley’s role with respect to a Retirement Account, please visit www.morganstanley.com/disclosures/dol. Tax laws are complex and subject to change. Morgan Stanley does not provide tax or legal advice. Individuals are encouraged to consult their tax and legal advisors (a) before establishing a Retirement Account, and (b) regarding any potential tax, ERISA and related consequences of any investments or other transactions made with respect to a Retirement Account. Individuals should consult their tax advisor for matters involving taxation and tax planning and their attorney for matters involving trust and estate planning, charitable giving, philanthropic planning and other legal matters.
5An investment in an exchange-traded fund (ETF) involves risks similar to those of investing in a broadly based portfolio of equity securities traded on exchange in the relevant securities market, such as market fluctuations caused by such factors as economic and political developments, changes in interest rates and perceived trends in stock prices. The investment return and principal value of ETF investments will fluctuate, so that an investor’s ETF shares, if or when sold, may be worth more or less than the original cost.
Investors should carefully consider the investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses of an exchange-traded fund (ETF) before investing. The prospectus contains this and other information about the ETF. To obtain a prospectus, contact your Financial Advisor or visit the ETF company’s website. Please read the prospectus carefully before investing.
6Insurance products are offered in conjunction with Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC’s licensed insurance agency affiliates.
7Insurance products are offered in conjunction with Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC’s licensed insurance agency affiliates.
8Investors should consider many factors before deciding which 529 plan is appropriate. Some of these factors include: the Plan's investment options and the historical investment performance of these options, the Plan's flexibility and features, the reputation and expertise of the Plan's investment manager, Plan contribution limits and the federal and state tax benefits associated with an investment in the Plan. Some states, for example, offer favorable tax treatment and other benefits to their residents only if they invest in the state's own Qualified Tuition Program. Investors should determine their home state's tax treatment of 529 plans when considering whether to choose an in-state or out-of-state plan. Investors should consult with their tax or legal advisor before investing in any 529 Plan or contact their state tax division for more information. Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC does not provide tax and/or legal advice. Investors should review a Program Disclosure Statement, which contains more information on investment options, risk factors, fees and expenses and possible tax consequences.
Check the background of our Firm and Investment Professionals on FINRA's BrokerCheck*.
The information, products and services described here are intended only for individuals residing in states where this Financial Advisor is properly registered as described in this site.
Morgan Stanley reserves the right, to the extent permitted under applicable law, to retain and monitor all electronic communications. Morgan Stanley will not accept purchase or sale orders via any Internet site, social media site and/or its messaging systems. Morgan Stanley does not endorse and is not responsible and assumes no liability for content, products or services posted by third-parties on any Internet site, social media site and/or its messaging systems. All electronic communications are subject to terms available at the following link:
https://www.morganstanley.com/disclaimers/mswm-email.html. Any profiles and associated content are for U.S. residents only.
The securities/instruments, services, investments and investment strategies discussed in this material may not be appropriate for all investors. The appropriateness of a particular investment, investment strategy or service will depend on an investor's individual circumstances and objectives. Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC recommends that investors independently evaluate particular investments, strategies and services, and encourages investors to seek the advice of a Financial Advisor or Private Wealth Advisor. This material does not provide individually tailored investment advice. It has been prepared without regard to the individual financial circumstances and objectives of persons who receive it.
Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (“Morgan Stanley”), its affiliates and Morgan Stanley Financial Advisors or Private Wealth Advisors do not provide tax or legal advice. Individuals should consult their tax advisor for matters involving taxation and tax planning and their attorney for legal matters.
Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (“Morgan Stanley”) is not implying an affiliation, sponsorship, endorsement with/of the third party or that any monitoring is being done by Morgan Stanley of any information contained within the website. Morgan Stanley is not responsible for the information contained on the third-party website or the use of or inability to use such site. Nor do we guarantee their accuracy or completeness.
The views, opinions or advice contained within third party websites or materials are solely those of the author, who is not a Morgan Stanley employee, and do not necessarily reflect those of Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC, or its affiliates. The strategies and/or investments referenced may not be appropriate for all investors as the appropriateness of a particular investment or strategy will depend on an investor's individual circumstances and objectives.
*References to length of service at Morgan Stanley include years at Morgan Stanley and predecessor firms.
Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Center for Financial Planning, Inc. owns and licenses the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®, and CFP® (with plaque design) in the United States to Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc., which authorizes individuals who successfully complete the organization's initial and ongoing certification requirements to use the certification marks.
The use of the CDFA designation does not permit the rendering of legal advice by Morgan Stanley or its Financial Advisors which may only be done by a licensed attorney. The CDFA designation is not intended to imply that either Morgan Stanley or its Financial Advisors are acting as experts in this field.
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1Morgan Stanley Wealth Management is the trade name of Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC, a registered broker-dealer in the United States. Morgan Stanley Wealth Management is a business of Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC.
For more information, please see the Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC Client Relationship Summary.
2Morgan Stanley offers a wide array of brokerage and advisory services to its clients, each of which may create a different type of relationship with different obligations to you. Please consult with your Financial Advisor to understand these differences or review our Understanding Your Brokerage and Investment Advisory Relationships brochure available at www.morganstanley.com/wealth-relationshipwithms/pdfs/understandingyourrelationship.pdf.
3Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (“Morgan Stanley”), its affiliates and Morgan Stanley Financial Advisors and Private Wealth Advisors do not provide tax or legal advice. Clients should consult their tax advisor for matters involving taxation and tax planning and their attorney for matters involving trust and estate planning and other legal matters.
4When Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC, its affiliates and Morgan Stanley Financial Advisors and Private Wealth Advisors (collectively, “Morgan Stanley”) provide “investment advice” regarding a retirement or welfare benefit plan account, an individual retirement account or a Coverdell education savings account (“Retirement Account”), Morgan Stanley is a “fiduciary” as those terms are defined under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended (“ERISA”), and/or the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (the “Code”), as applicable. When Morgan Stanley provides investment education, takes orders on an unsolicited basis or otherwise does not provide “investment advice”, Morgan Stanley will not be considered a “fiduciary” under ERISA and/or the Code. For more information regarding Morgan Stanley’s role with respect to a Retirement Account, please visit www.morganstanley.com/disclosures/dol. Tax laws are complex and subject to change. Morgan Stanley does not provide tax or legal advice. Individuals are encouraged to consult their tax and legal advisors (a) before establishing a Retirement Account, and (b) regarding any potential tax, ERISA and related consequences of any investments or other transactions made with respect to a Retirement Account. Individuals should consult their tax advisor for matters involving taxation and tax planning and their attorney for matters involving trust and estate planning, charitable giving, philanthropic planning and other legal matters.
5An investment in an exchange-traded fund (ETF) involves risks similar to those of investing in a broadly based portfolio of equity securities traded on exchange in the relevant securities market, such as market fluctuations caused by such factors as economic and political developments, changes in interest rates and perceived trends in stock prices. The investment return and principal value of ETF investments will fluctuate, so that an investor’s ETF shares, if or when sold, may be worth more or less than the original cost.
Investors should carefully consider the investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses of an exchange-traded fund (ETF) before investing. The prospectus contains this and other information about the ETF. To obtain a prospectus, contact your Financial Advisor or visit the ETF company’s website. Please read the prospectus carefully before investing.
6Insurance products are offered in conjunction with Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC’s licensed insurance agency affiliates.
7Insurance products are offered in conjunction with Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC’s licensed insurance agency affiliates.
8Investors should consider many factors before deciding which 529 plan is appropriate. Some of these factors include: the Plan's investment options and the historical investment performance of these options, the Plan's flexibility and features, the reputation and expertise of the Plan's investment manager, Plan contribution limits and the federal and state tax benefits associated with an investment in the Plan. Some states, for example, offer favorable tax treatment and other benefits to their residents only if they invest in the state's own Qualified Tuition Program. Investors should determine their home state's tax treatment of 529 plans when considering whether to choose an in-state or out-of-state plan. Investors should consult with their tax or legal advisor before investing in any 529 Plan or contact their state tax division for more information. Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC does not provide tax and/or legal advice. Investors should review a Program Disclosure Statement, which contains more information on investment options, risk factors, fees and expenses and possible tax consequences.
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Morgan Stanley reserves the right, to the extent permitted under applicable law, to retain and monitor all electronic communications. Morgan Stanley will not accept purchase or sale orders via any Internet site, social media site and/or its messaging systems. Morgan Stanley does not endorse and is not responsible and assumes no liability for content, products or services posted by third-parties on any Internet site, social media site and/or its messaging systems. All electronic communications are subject to terms available at the following link:
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The securities/instruments, services, investments and investment strategies discussed in this material may not be appropriate for all investors. The appropriateness of a particular investment, investment strategy or service will depend on an investor's individual circumstances and objectives. Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC recommends that investors independently evaluate particular investments, strategies and services, and encourages investors to seek the advice of a Financial Advisor or Private Wealth Advisor. This material does not provide individually tailored investment advice. It has been prepared without regard to the individual financial circumstances and objectives of persons who receive it.
Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (“Morgan Stanley”), its affiliates and Morgan Stanley Financial Advisors or Private Wealth Advisors do not provide tax or legal advice. Individuals should consult their tax advisor for matters involving taxation and tax planning and their attorney for legal matters.
Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (“Morgan Stanley”) is not implying an affiliation, sponsorship, endorsement with/of the third party or that any monitoring is being done by Morgan Stanley of any information contained within the website. Morgan Stanley is not responsible for the information contained on the third-party website or the use of or inability to use such site. Nor do we guarantee their accuracy or completeness.
The views, opinions or advice contained within third party websites or materials are solely those of the author, who is not a Morgan Stanley employee, and do not necessarily reflect those of Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC, or its affiliates. The strategies and/or investments referenced may not be appropriate for all investors as the appropriateness of a particular investment or strategy will depend on an investor's individual circumstances and objectives.
*References to length of service at Morgan Stanley include years at Morgan Stanley and predecessor firms.
Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Center for Financial Planning, Inc. owns and licenses the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®, and CFP® (with plaque design) in the United States to Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc., which authorizes individuals who successfully complete the organization's initial and ongoing certification requirements to use the certification marks.
The use of the CDFA designation does not permit the rendering of legal advice by Morgan Stanley or its Financial Advisors which may only be done by a licensed attorney. The CDFA designation is not intended to imply that either Morgan Stanley or its Financial Advisors are acting as experts in this field.
Awards Disclosures | Morgan Stanley
CRC 4665150 (8/2025), 4763067 (9/2025)
