About Me

Merle has been developing and implementing wealth management strategies in the investment industry to uniquely successful individuals, families, and business for 39 years with Morgan Stanley.

Her multi-generational financial planning includes developing and implementing broad investment strategies that are customized to reflect each client’s unique needs. Through the financial planning process, she can help you access your financial complexities and needs and develop strategies that are designed to help you achieve your goals and strengthen your financial security. Her goal is to cultivate deep long-lasting relationships by providing her clients exceptional experiences. She is someone who makes a difference in people’s lives. Her focus also includes a special emphasis on empowering women.

Merle has been acknowledged for exceptional performance and dedication to clients as a Morgan Stanley club member since 1992. Merle is a member of the Master’s Club. In additional to demonstrating leadership through best practices of wealth management, Morgan Stanley club members must satisfy all other aspects of job performance, conduct, and compliance standards. Merle serves on Morgan Stanley’s National Financial Advisor Advisory Council. She was recognized by Forbes named in the top 100 Best in State Florida Wealth Advisors in 2018, 2019, and 2020 and Forbes Top Women Wealth Advisors in 2018, 2019, and 2020. Merle was also named in the top 100 list of Working Mother’s Magazine, “Top Wealth Advisor Moms" in 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020 and 2021.

Merle believes in giving back to the community by being active in those that share her passions. Merle is a strong supporter of our Nation’s servicemen and servicewomen. She volunteers for Honor Flight and Freedom Fighter Outdoors, an organization that supports injured veterans providing once in a lifetime fishing adventures and outdoor activities.

Balancing a family life with her husband, two sons, and daughter takes a creative approach. Merle is an avid reader, and she enjoys fishing, boating, and martial arts.

2017-2021 Working Mother Magazine & SHOOK Research's Top Wealth Advisor Moms
Source: Workingmother.com (Awarded October 2017-2021). Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on 12-month period concluding in Mar of the year the award was given.

​2018-2020 Forbes Best-In- State Wealth Advisors
Source: Forbes.com (Awarded 2018-2020). Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based 12-month time period concluding in June of year prior to the issuance of the award.

2018-2020 Forbes America's Top Women Wealth Advisors & Forbes Top Women Wealth Advisors Best-In- State (formerly referred to as Forbes Top Women Wealth Advisors, Forbes America's Top Women Wealth Advisors)
Source: Forbes.com (Awarded 2018-2020). Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on 12-month time period concluding in Sept of year prior to the issuance of the award.
Services Include
Securities Agent: OH, AZ, VT, OK, NM, NJ, NH, ME, ID, DE, CA, WY, NC, AL, WA, VA, LA, RI, NV, MN, IL, TN, NY, DC, CO, WI, SC, PA, GA, MT, MA, FL, IN, TX, MI, UT, PR, MO, MD, CT; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative; Managed Futures
NMLS#: 1282984
Check the background of Our Firm and Investment Professionals on FINRA's BrokerCheck.*
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2017-2021 Working Mother Magazine & SHOOK Research's Top Wealth Advisor Moms
Source: Workingmother.com (Awarded October 2017-2021). Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on 12-month period concluding in Mar of the year the award was given.

​2018-2020 Forbes Best-In- State Wealth Advisors
Source: Forbes.com (Awarded 2018-2020). Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based 12-month time period concluding in June of year prior to the issuance of the award.

2018-2020 Forbes America's Top Women Wealth Advisors & Forbes Top Women Wealth Advisors Best-In- State (formerly referred to as Forbes Top Women Wealth Advisors, Forbes America's Top Women Wealth Advisors)
Source: Forbes.com (Awarded 2018-2020). Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on 12-month time period concluding in Sept of year prior to the issuance of the award.
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    Merle Zislin named to Forbes Top Women Wealth Advisors – 2021
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    Merle Zislin named to Forbes List of America’s Best-In-State Wealth Advisors – 2021
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    - Merle Zislin named to Forbes List of America's Best-In-State Wealth Advisors - 2019
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    - Merle Zislin named to Working Mothers Magazine's Top 100 Wealth Advisor Moms - 2019
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    - Merle Zislin named to Forbes List of America's Best-In-State Wealth Advisors - 2018
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    - Merle Zislin named to Working Mothers Magazine's Top 100 Wealth Advisor Moms - 2018
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    - Merle Zislin named to Forbes Top Women Wealth Advisors 2018
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    - Merle Zislin named to Working Mothers Magazine's Top 100 Wealth Advisor Moms - 2017
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    - Merle Zislin serves on Morgan Stanley's National Financial Advisory Council
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    - Merle Zislin served on Morgan Stanley's Regional Financial Advisory Council
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    - Merle Zislin is a member of Morgan Stanley's Masters Club

Client Service Team

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    Jennifer Zislin - Client Service Associate
    Phone:
    (561) 394-8578(561) 394-8578
    Email:jennifer.zislin@morganstanley.com
    Jennifer views exceptional service as her top priority. She provides operational and administrative support services and places high importance on client needs and sees them through to completion. She brings a wealth of knowledge of day-to-day operations needed to run a well-organized business.
    Jennifer is passionate about delivering unsurpassed client services and is always available to assist clients with a wide range of services from statement queries to online account access and cash management services.
    Jennifer graduated with honors from the University of North Florida with a B.A. in Business Finance. She is a volunteer and proud supporter of FFO Freedom Fighter Outdoors supporting veterans and she enjoys volunteering for animal rescue organizations. In her spare time Jennifer enjoys swimming, boating, and spending time with family and friends.  Jennifer's favorite sports teams include the Flyers and 2018 World Champion Philadelphia Eagles.
    Securities Agent: TX, ID, NV, NJ, NC, MT, SC, OH, MA, LA, GA, CT, AL, VT, TN, PA, NY, NH, MO, CO, AZ, WY, UT, MD, FL, NM, DE, MN, WA, PR, MI, IN, WI, DC, VA, RI, ME, IL, CA, OK; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative
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    Michael Zislin - Financial Advisor, Portfolio Manager
    Email:michael.zislin@morganstanley.com
    Michael Zislin is a financial advisor  at Morgan Stanley, located in Boca Raton, FL. 
     Background
    A South Florida native, Michael attended Cardinal Gibbons High School. He earned a Bachelor's of Science degree in Finance and a Master's of Business Administration (MBA) with a concentration in finance, both from Nova Southeastern University. Michael currently lives in Lighthouse Point, FL.

    Before joining Morgan Stanley, Michael owned and operated a marine consulting company for over 10 years. He managed many private yachts, maintained boats, and ran private fishing charters. Michael also fished commercially and sold fish to the local seafood distributors and wholesalers. Michael has also been coaching high school swimming for numerous years.

    Away from work, Michael actively contributes to many non-profit organizations such as Freedom Fighter Outdoors, Wounded Warrior Project, The Cliff Floyd Foundation, and Habitat for Humanity. His hobbies include fishing, diving, boating, hunting, and spending time with his family. Michael's previous work endeavors and community involvement have helped him build a strong foundation for his career as a financial advisor with Morgan Stanley.

    Qualifications 
    -Series 7 License
    -Series 66 License
    -Nationwide Multistate Licensing System (NMLS) License
    -M.B.A., Finance Concentration | Nova Southeastern University
    -Bachelors of Science in Finance | Nova Southeastern University
    Alex Recio - Registered Client Services Associate
    Email:alex.recio@morganstanley.com
    Before joining Morgan Stanley, Alex joined the insurance and financial planning industry right out of Flagler College where he received his B.A in Business Administration with an emphasis in Finance. He prides himself in learning the ins and outs of Medicare, the numerous life insurance vehicles that apply to various stages and legacy leaving goals, the value of Long term care, and the different investment vehicles that can go hand in hand with accomplishing one’s retirement goals.

    He has his series 215, SIE, 7,6 and 66 exams and is very passionate about the continuous learning opportunities this industry provides.

    He provides operational and administrative support to the clients of The Zislin Group. He nurtures both new and existing client relationships by utilizing hard work and creativity to tackle special situations. In addition, he serves as a liaison between his Financial Advisor, clients and our back office team.

    Alex enjoys spending his free time playing baseball, basketball, football and golf with his friends. He loves to watch the New York Yankees and Knicks play in their respected sports as he has been a lifelong fan of these two teams. Although he was born in Long Island, NY he will claim to be born in New York but raised here in South Florida. He is very avid about his own and everybody around his personal growth and loves to give his time and energy back into the community by attending charity events as most of his immediate family are proud civil servants.

Location

595 So Federal Hwy
Ste 400
Boca Raton, FL 33432
US
Direct:
(561) 394-8571(561) 394-8571
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
Iran Conflict: Seven Takeaways for Investors
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Iran Conflict: Seven Takeaways for Investors

Prolonged conflict with Iran could lead to higher oil prices, hotter inflation and greater market uncertainty.

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 Merle Zislin today.
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1Structured 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.

For more information, please see the Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC Client Relationship Summary.

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2Morgan 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.

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3Morgan 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.

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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.

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5Morgan Stanley’s investment advisory programs may require a minimum asset level and, depending on your specific investment objectives and financial position, may not be appropriate for you. Please see the Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC program disclosure brochure (the “Morgan Stanley ADV”) for more information in the investment advisory programs available. The Morgan Stanley ADV is available at www.morganstanley.com/ADV.

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6Morgan 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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7Morgan 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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8Alternative 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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9Insurance products are offered in conjunction with Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC’s licensed insurance agency affiliates.

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10Insurance products are offered in conjunction with Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC’s licensed insurance agency affiliates.

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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.

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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.

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Awards Disclosures | Morgan Stanley
CRC 4665150 (8/2025)