My Story

James Dugan is a Financial Advisor and Branch Manager who has been with Morgan Stanley since 2010. After serving in the United States Air Force for 4 years, Jim put himself through the University of California Sacramento, obtained his degree in finance, and was hired by Solomon Smith Barney upon graduation, entering the financial industry back in 1992. Growing up as the son of blue collar parents, Jim had a great work ethic instilled in him from a young age. His parents worked incredibly hard to provide for his family, but they struggled to create a retirement for themselves. Jim found a desire to become a financial advisor in order to help guide his parents, and those like them, to a path of financial freedom.

Outside of the office, Jim loves spending his time with his kids, Caleb and Cassie, and their two cats, JJ and Orange. In his free time, you can find Jim golfing, skiing, hiking, mountain biking, or volunteering. Some of his favorite places to volunteer his time include Vintage Grace, Sacramento SPCA, Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors, or the Folds of Honor Foundation.
Services Include
Securities Agent: OH, WA, MO, WV, NM, SC, UT, DE, ND, IA, KS, WY, WI, VT, VI, VA, TX, TN, SD, RI, PR, PA, OR, OK, NY, NV, NJ, NH, NE, NC, MT, MS, MN, MI, ME, MD, MA, LA, KY, IN, IL, ID, HI, GA, FL, DC, CT, CO, CA, AZ, AR, AL, AK; BM/Supervisor; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative; Transactional Futures/Commodities; Managed Futures
NMLS#: 364219
CA Insurance License #: 0B12706
Check the background of Our Firm and Investment Professionals on FINRA's BrokerCheck.*

Our Goals-Based Process

The hallmark of my wealth management process is a longstanding commitment to building customized solutions from the ground up, utilizing my experience, wisdom and the intellectual capital of Morgan Stanley. My goals-based approach leads to strategies that are not only designed to help reach specific financial targets, but are reflective of who you are and how you plan to enjoy the wealth you’ve worked hard to achieve.
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    1: Discovery
    I'll begin with a conversation to understand your priorities. This is your opportunity to learn about me, as I get to know you. I'll then review your financial documents to fully understand your current financial situation.
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    2: Analysis
    I utilize a variety of planning and risk analysis tools to identify appropriate solutions and then stress-test each recommendation before formalizing your custom plan.
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    3: Presentation
    I present your plan in detail, which includes investment recommendations, as well as other strategies aimed at reducing risk, minimizing taxes, and achieving your estate planning goals. Based on our discussion, I will revise your plan accordingly.
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    4. Implementation
    Upon your approval, I begin to implement each strategy. I collaborate with your CPA and estate attorney to help ensure continuity. I believe in full transparency and keep you involved each step of the way.
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    5: Ongoing Service
    I meet with you regularly to track performance towards your goals, discuss changes in your life, and update our strategies as needed.

Offering Comprehensive Solutions

I help working professionals, retirees, and business owners manage their financial life, no matter the complexity of the specific situation.
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    Wealth Planning
    - Goals Based Planning
    - Retirement Strategies
    To learn more, watch this video:
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    Investment Advice
    - Thought Leadership
    - Asset Allocation
    - Portfolio Construction
    - Investment Manager Selection
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    Investment Solutions
    - Advisory
    - Brokerage
    - Traditional Products
    - Alternatives
    - Annuities
    - Investing with Impact
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    Trust, Estate & Legacy Planning
    - Wealth Transfer Strategies
    - Trust, Estate and Legacy Planning Strategies
    - Trust and Estate Professionals
    Click here for more info:
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    Philanthropy Services
    - Charitable Lead Trusts
    - Charitable Reminder Trusts
    - Family Foundations
    - Donor-Advised Funds

Digital Tools

Morgan Stanley's comprehensive suite of digital tools are designed to help enhance every aspect of your financial life. Here are some of the technologies we offer to our clients.
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    Total Wealth View
    Complete your financial picture with total wealth view. By linking your account information, you will benefit from more informed wealth planning, more secure data access, and convenient connectivity.
    Learn More About Total Wealth View:
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    Goals Based Planning
    Working with us, paired with our technology, is a great way to access advice and build a wealth plan. Read more about the advantages of working with our planning technology in reaching your financial goals.
    Learn About Our Planning Tools:
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    Online Security Center
    At Morgan Stanley, safeguarding your assets and personal information is among our highest priorities. Learn about our security measures and use our resources and ideas to help protect yourself online.
    Learn More About Online Security Center:
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    Morgan Stanley Online
    Your investments and everyday finances are always just a few clicks away with Morgan Stanley Online (MSO) and the Morgan Stanley Mobile App.
    Learn More About MSO:

Media and Research

I believe financial education leads to better insights into our investment strategy and discipline, and ultimately, better long-term decisions. As a result, I am committed to providing you with important information about managing your wealth more effectively in today’s global markets.
I have assembled the following resources that reinforce the fundamental investment strategies and concepts of our practice. I’ve provided links to these materials, where available, and hope you’ll return often to learn more about the topics that impact your overall wealth.
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    January 2022: Global Investment Committee on the Markets
    A monthly publication that summarizes the Global Investment Committee’s market outlook and contains thought-provoking essays that examine the forces shaping the investment landscape. Check out the November edition here.
    GIC on the Markets:
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    Thoughts On The Market Podcast
    With perspectives on the forces shaping the market, join Mike Wilson, Chief Investment Officer and Chief US Equity Strategist for Morgan Stanley, as he and his colleagues discuss a variety of viewpoints regarding the latest trends in the financial marketplace.
    Listen Here:
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    Morgan Stanley Ideas Podcast
    From the use of satellite data technology to solve some of the world's most complex problems, to learning how not to follow the crowd when making decisions, The Morgan Stanley Ideas Podcast brings you revealing stories about the world of business, finance, technology and beyond. Click the link below for more information and to access a library of interesting content.
    Listen Here:
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    Wealth Management Insight Audiocasts
    Wealth Management Insights brings you the latest investment advice from thought leaders within Wealth Management Investment Resources (WMIR). They provide their latest thinking on various market topics in 3-5 minute audiocasts.
    Listen Here:

Location

2365 Iron Point Road
Ste 235
Folsom, CA 95630
US
Direct:
(916) 984-3384(916) 984-3384
Toll-Free:
(800) 626-7019(800) 626-7019
Fax:
(916) 984-3388(916) 984-3388
Wealth Management
Global Investment Office

Portfolio Insights

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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A Simple Six-Step Retirement Checkup

Checking in on your retirement plan may make a lot of sense, especially when market volatility arises.

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
2025 Midyear Economic Outlook: A Widespread Deceleration
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2025 Midyear Economic Outlook: A Widespread Deceleration

Global growth is likely to slow in 2025 and 2026 as the shock of higher U.S. tariffs crimps demand around the world.

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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529 Plans: A Powerful Tool to Save for Education

Though education costs continue to climb, starting to save and invest early can make a difference.

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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Financial Planning for Life After Selling a Business

Selling your business can mean big changes for your life, both personally and financially. Know how to make the most of your windfall.

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
Donor Advised Funds: A Smart Way to Manage Your Giving
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Donor Advised Funds: A Smart Way to Manage Your Giving

There's more to charitable giving than you may realize. Here's one method that may be a tax-efficient way to give and can help maximize your impact.
Ready to start a conversation? Contact James Dugan today.
1Morgan 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.

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2An 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.

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3Fixed Income investing entails credit risks and interest rate risks. When interest rates rise, bond prices generally fall.

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4Insurance products are offered in conjunction with Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC’s licensed insurance agency affiliates.

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5Investors 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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6Alternative Investments are speculative and include a high degree of risk. An investor could lose all or a substantial amount of his/her investment. Alternative investments are appropriate only for qualified, long-term investors who are willing to forgo liquidity and put capital at risk for an indefinite period of time.

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7Annuities are offered in conjunction with Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC’s licensed insurance agency affiliates.

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8Morgan 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

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9Investors 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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10When 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.

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11Insurance products are offered in conjunction with Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC’s licensed insurance agency affiliates.

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12Municipal bonds may not be appropriate for all investors. Income generated from an investment in a municipal bond is generally exempt from federal income taxes. Some income may be subject to state and local taxes and to the federal alternative minimum tax. Capital gains, if any, are subject to tax.
Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (“Morgan Stanley”) and its Financial Advisors and Private Wealth Advisors do not provide any tax/legal advice. Consult your own tax/legal advisor before making any tax or legal-related investment decisions.

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13Physical precious metals are non-regulated products. Precious metals are speculative investments, which may experience short-term and long-term price volatility. The value of precious metals investments may fluctuate and may appreciate or decline, depending on market conditions. If sold in a declining market, the price you receive may be less than your original investment. Unlike bonds and stocks, precious metals do not make interest or dividend payments. Therefore, precious metals may not be appropriate for investors who require current income. Precious metals are commodities that should be safely stored, which may impose additional costs on the investor. The Securities Investor Protection Corporation (“SIPC”) provides certain protection for customers’ cash and securities in the event of a brokerage firm’s bankruptcy, other financial difficulties, or if customers’ assets are missing. SIPC protection does not apply to precious metals or other commodities.

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14When 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.

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15Structured Investments are complex and not appropriate for all investors. An investment in structured investments involves risks. These risks can include but are not limited to: fluctuations in the price, level or yield of underlying asset(s), interest rates, currency values and credit quality, substantial loss of principal, limits on participation in appreciation of underlying asset(s), limited liquidity, credit risk, and/or conflicts of interest. Many structured investments do not pay interest or guarantee a return above principal at maturity. Investors should read the security’s offering documentation prior to making an investment decision.

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16Morgan Stanley Wealth Management is the trade name of Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC, a registered broker-dealer in the United States.

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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.

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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
CRC 6491812 (04/2024)