My Story and Services

Pravin Kumar is a highly experienced Financial Advisor at Morgan Stanley with over three decades of experience in the financial services industry. His passion is helping successful professionals and entrepreneurs achieve their lifestyle goals through a holistic, personalized approach to financial planning.

With 28 years as an investment advisor and portfolio manager at CIBC Wood Gundy in Vancouver, Canada, and over three years as an International Client Advisor at Morgan Stanley, Pravin brings a depth of knowledge to every client relationship. He works with Canadian permitted clients and can onboard clients from select countries in Europe, Latin America, and Asia, subject to Morgan Stanley's country-specific eligibility criteria. When appropriate, Pravin collaborates with U.S.-based financial advisors to assist their international clients, providing a thoughtful and integrated experience.

As an International Client Advisor, Pravin serves clients with cross-border needs while fostering relationships both in the U.S. and abroad. His approach is highly individualized, focusing on creating customized portfolios that align with each client’s unique risk profile and long-term objectives. Regular communication, including quarterly reviews, ensures that his clients’ plans adapt to their evolving goals.

Born in India, Pravin holds a Bachelor of Technology in Civil Engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology in Delhi, a Master of Business Administration (Finance) from the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, and is a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA).

Pravin values regular communication with his clients, offering quarterly reviews and touchpoints to ensure their needs are met. He also has a commitment to his community, serving as a board member of the World Diabetes Foundation and treasurer for the North American Alumni CMC Vellore 2023 event.

In his personal life, Pravin enjoys traveling, cycling, and playing bridge. He has a passion for giving back, having participated in various charitable events including a climb of Mount Kilimanjaro and two-day 200KM bike rides for cancer research. He is married to Dr. Prathibha Varkey, a physician and the President of Mayo Clinic Health System, and has two daughters.
Services Include
Securities Agent: NC, NJ, PR, TX, VT, WY, MN, DC, IN, HI, WV, WI, WA, VI, VA, UT, SD, SC, RI, PA, OR, OK, OH, NY, NV, NM, NH, NE, ND, MT, MS, MO, MI, ME, MD, MA, LA, KY, KS, IL, ID, IA, GA, FL, DE, CT, CO, CA, AZ, AR, AL, AK; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative
NMLS#: 2170783
Check the background of Our Firm and Investment Professionals on FINRA's BrokerCheck.*

Working With You

The core of our practice is values-based financial planning, which means we help our clients better align their financial goals with their personal values. We leverage Morgan Stanley's investment prowse and measure progress by each client's financial plan. This way, no matter what happens in the markets or the world, our clients can have increased confidence towards reaching their goals. Working with you starts with understanding your financial situation, goals, objectives, and risk tolerance. We follow a disciplined process to help you craft a strategy that can meet your individual financial needs.
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    Step 1: Getting to Know You
    We begin our relationship with an initial discussion to get to know you, your lifestyle, and your future goals.
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    Step 2: Discovery Meeting
    During the discovery meeting, we work together to establish your financial goals by reviewing your current financial situation and developing an appropriate risk tolerance that can help you achieve the financial outcome you envision for yourself.
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    Step 3: Financial Plan Presentation
    In the financial plan presentation, we map out essential factors that contribute to your financial success, such as your employee and employer contributions, liquidity events, and insurance coverage. Examining relevant financial information provides a holistic asset allocation analysis for your accounts, helping establish a comprehensive financial plan.
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    Step 4: Action Items
    After the financial plan presentation, we follow up with you regarding our analysis and recommendations, which may include adjustments to your financial plan, investment allocation, company benefits, and insurance coverage.
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    Step 5: Implementation Meeting
    The implementation meeting focuses on creating prospective strategies custom designed for your specific needs. Recommended changes could include logistics, tax impact, asset allocation adjustments, and saving/benefit modifications.
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    Step 6: Monitoring Performance Tracking
    Our team constantly monitors your assets and analyzes your performance tracking data to ensure your financial expectations are being met and adjusted accordingly. We communicate with you regularly so that we can always respond to your concerns and requests.

TOOLS BUILT FOR YOU

As our client, you'll benefit from access to a comprehensive suite of digital resources. Our experience in technology and innovation enables us to integrate these tools into your financial plan to help enhance its effectiveness. With state-of-the-art cybersecurity, tax-efficient planning, and risk assessment platforms, we can continually reassess your strategy and strive to optimize performance.
    Morgan Stanley Online
    Morgan Stanley Online
    Morgan Stanley Online allows you to seamlessly and securely manage your investments and everyday finances in one place.
    Register for Morgan Stanley Online Today
    Total Tax 365
    Total Tax 365
    Taxes can be a substantial drag on investment returns. Morgan Stanley Total Tax 365 offers access to a broad range of tax-efficient strategies to help you integrate tax planning into your investment process all year long, maximize portfolio after-tax return potential and help keep more of what you earn.
    Learn More
    A $695 Annual Engagement Bonus
    A $695 Annual Engagement Bonus
    For eligible Platinum CashPlus brokerage account clients with The Platinum Card® from American Express, exclusively for Morgan Stanley. Certain Morgan Stanley Debit Cardholders may also qualify. Terms apply.
    Click Here to Learn More
    eDelivery
    eDelivery
    Sign up for eDelivery today and start receiving email notifications as soon as your account documents are available on Morgan Stanley Online or the Morgan Stanley Mobile App. It's quick, convenient & secure.
    Enroll Today
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    Total Wealth View
    When life gets hectic, managing finances can be a low priority. Total Wealth View simplifies this by providing a single platform to track investments, cash flow, assets, and net worth. This seamless integration with your Morgan Stanley Online account and LifeView or GPS gives your Advisor a comprehensive view of your entire financial profile, making it easier than ever to keep track of your finances.
    Click Here to Learn More
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    Goals-Based Planning System (GPS)
    Our Goals-Based Planning System (GPS) offers a personalized solution using our intellectual capital and capabilities. Experience an intuitive and efficient platform for a successful financial plan.
    Click Here to Learn More

VALUABLE TOOLS AND RESOURCES

We believe financial education leads to better insights into our investment strategy and discipline, and ultimately, better long-term decisions. As a result, we are committed to providing you with important information about managing your wealth more effectively in today's global markets.

We have assembled the following resources that reinforce the fundamental investment strategies and concepts of our practice. We'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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    Thoughts on the Market Podcast
    With perspectives on the forces shaping the market, join Morgan Stanley's Chief Investment Officer and Chief US
    Equity Strategist as he and his colleagues discuss their viewpoints regarding the latest trends in the financial marketplace.
    Check out the latest episode
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    Addressing Cybercrime
    In a world that is now more virtual than ever, staying safe online is nothing short of paramount. Take advantage of these helpful hints on how to tell if you've been hacked.
    Learn how to detect hacking
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    Retirement Planning
    It's important to determine how much money you may need to save for a comfortable retirement Here are three
    strategies that can help you optimize your 401(k) plan.
    Explore potential options
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    Signature Access
    Signature Access, the highest tier of Morgan Stanley's complimentary loyalty program Reserved Living & Giving, gives clients with $10 million or more in assets at the firm access to world class services such as Private Health Advisory, Personal Cybersecurity Services, Aircraft Management and more in addition to all the discounts and content available through reserved Living & Giving.
    Log into Signature Access

Cross-Border Financial Services

As a Morgan Stanley International Client Advisor (ICA), I am uniquely positioned to serve Canadian permitted clients. With nearly three decades of experience in the market, a deep understanding of cross-border financial needs, and over 10 years of experience as a Portfolio Manager licensed for discretionary equity, I am here to help you navigate your financial journey.

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    Cross-Border Experience

    Leveraging my extensive experience and deep understanding of the financial landscape in both the U.S. and Canada, I provide guidance tailored to your unique situation. Whether you're a Canadian living in the U.S., a U.S. resident with financial interests in Canada, or residing in Canada, I'm here to help.

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    Discretionary Equity Experience

    With over 10 years of experience as a Portfolio Manager licensed for discretionary equity, I have the know-how to manage your portfolio and make investment decisions on your behalf.

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    Resources for Canadians

    As a client, you will have access to top alternative products platforms and family office resources for cross-border issues. These resources can help you navigate complex financial needs and make informed decisions.

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    Morgan Stanley Wealth Canada

    With Morgan Stanley Wealth Canada now accepting external clients, we can help Canadians manage both their taxable assets via Morgan Stanley Smith Barney and their custodial assets- RRSPs, RRIFs and TFSAs at the Morgan Stanley Wealth Canada platform.

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    Common Questions and Answers

    How will the transition to a U.S.- based financial advisor impact my tax reporting?

    • Having extensive experience in the Canadian tax rules, I provide relevant tax reports to my clients that are required from the Canada Revenue Agency for tax filing.

    Are my assets subject to U.S. estate rules?

    • Canadian domiciled holding and operating corporations are generally not subject to estate taxes; however, please consult your tax advisor.
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    Contact Me

    Ready to take the next step in your financial journey? Contact me today to schedule a consultation.

    Click here to request an appointment

Location

14 Second Street SW
Suite 201
Rochester, MN 55902
US
Direct:
(914) 357-1393(914) 357-1393

Meet My Team

About Matthew K Johnson

Matt grew up in Superior, WI and graduated from The College of St. Scholastica with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Humanities in Duluth, MN. He started with Morgan Stanley in 2017 and brings over a decade of experience delivering exceptional client service.

Prior to joining Pravin’s team, he worked on the institutional side, where he managed a team that provided operational support to Family Office clients.

Matt is excited to be back in the Twin Cities and when not spending time with his family, he enjoys camping, golf, and watching sports.

About Sophia V. Demou

Sophia grew up in Lakeville, MN and graduated from the University of Wisconsin Madison’s School of Business with a degree in Finance and Investment Banking. She started her career in Scottsdale, Arizona with Vanguard’s Client Service and Operations division.

In 2022, Sophia joined Morgan Stanley where she worked on the institutional side supporting high net worth Family Office clients.

Outside of work Sophia enjoys spending time with her family and pets, reading, hiking, and playing pickleball.

About Amanda Cribbs

Amanda is a Registered Client Service Associate and has been with Morgan Stanley since 2018. As a dedicated client service professional, Amanda assists clients in day-to-day functions and is responsible for providing operational and administrative support.

Amanda is from Eden Prairie, MN and graduated from North Dakota State University with a degree in Zoology. After business hours, she enjoys playing golf and pickleball. She is also an avid traveler and scuba diver.
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
4 Financially Smart Ways to Take Money Out of Retirement Accounts
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4 Financially Smart Ways to Take Money Out of Retirement Accounts

Discover how planning for required minimum distributions from retirement accounts can help you fund future needs and support loved ones.

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 Global Economic Outlook: U.S. Policies May Temper Global Growth
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2025 Global Economic Outlook: U.S. Policies May Temper Global Growth

Global growth is likely to be around 3% in 2025 and 2026, as tariff and immigration policies begin to slow the U.S. economy late next year, and China's underperformance restrains emerging markets.

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
Taking Control of Your Finances After Death of a Spouse
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Taking Control of Your Finances After Death of a Spouse

Financial planning after a divorce or death can be trying, but with the right approach and the right advice you can turn a difficult situation into empowerment.

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 Pravin Kumar today.
1Alternative 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.

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

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2When 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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3Morgan 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.

Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. owns the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and federally registered CFP (with flame design) in the U.S, which it awards to individuals who successfully complete CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements.

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)