My Services

Rick is a CFP ® practitioner with a strong background in risk management, bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table for his clients. He holds a Master's degree in financial risk management from the University of Connecticut, which provides him with a deep understanding of the intricacies of managing risks his clients face. Rick graduated from Bucknell University in 2007, where he obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics.

In his role as a financial advisor, Rick’s primary focus is on providing comprehensive financial planning services to his clients. He believes that a holistic approach to financial planning is essential in helping individuals and families achieve their long-term goals. By considering various aspects of their financial lives, such as budgeting, investing, retirement planning, tax optimization, and estate planning strategies, Rick creates personalized strategies that align with their unique needs and aspirations.

One of the key pillars of Rick’s advisory philosophy is robust risk management. Drawing on his academic background and professional experience, he is well-versed in identifying and mitigating potential risks that can impact his clients' financial well-being. By carefully assessing and addressing risks, he aims to help clients navigate volatile market conditions and protect their wealth over the long term.

Combining his risk experience and planning knowledge makes Rick an advocate for pursuing risk-adjusted returns in a tax-smart manner. He understands the importance of optimizing investment portfolios to help maximize returns while minimizing tax liabilities. By implementing strategies that consider the impact of taxes on investment returns, he helps clients achieve their financial objectives more efficiently.

As a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ with a concentration in risk management, Rick’s approach to financial advisory centers around comprehensive financial planning, robust risk management, and pursuing risk-adjusted returns in a tax-smart way. With a focus on understanding his clients' unique circumstances and goals, he provides tailored solutions that empower them to make informed financial decisions and navigate the complexities of the financial landscape with confidence.
Services Include
Securities Agent: PA, OH, MI, ME, IA, WV, RI, MA, KY, NJ, AZ, NV, VT, SC, MT, MO, IN, WY, NY, NC, MN, KS, IL, TN, OK, GA, DE, LA, DC, NH, NE, VA, TX, FL, CT, CO, CA, MD, WI, WA; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative
NMLS#: 2170784
Check the background of Our Firm and Investment Professionals on FINRA's BrokerCheck.*

My Background

Rick graduated from Bucknell University in Lewisburg, PA with a BA in Economics in 2007 and earned a Master’s degree in Financial Risk Management from the University of Connecticut’s School of Business in 2017. He completed his Certificate in Financial Planning from New York University and obtained his
CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ certification in 2023.

Prior to joining Morgan Stanley, Rick was an investment strategist with American International Group (AIG), creating and executing derivatives hedging programs to reduce AIG’s interest rate, equity market and currency risks. In this role, Rick was also responsible for AIG’s $25bn of outstanding debt securities, working directly with the Deputy CFO & Treasurer to manage the firm’s liquidity and leverage requirements. Upon graduating from college in 2007, Rick was a quantitative fixed income analyst in Bear Stearns’ FAST Group, specializing in asset back securities, a role he continued in at J.P. Morgan.

Rick’s high professional standards and commitment to his clients have earned him membership in the Morgan Stanley’s Pacesetter's Club in 2022, 2023 and 2024.
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After several years in Westport, CT, Rick and his wife, Dana, moved back to his home town of Rumson, NJ with their two young kids, Luke and Chloe. Rick enjoys skiing, tennis, and has a growing passion and frustration with barbeque. Each summer, Rick and his family look forward to spending time in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware.

Upcoming Firm Events

We hope you will join us for this upcoming event.

AI Revolution: The Breakthrough, the Buzz and a Blueprint for the Future

We invite you to watch the replay from our thought-provoking conversation on artificial intelligence (AI) with James Dyett, OpenAI's Head of Enterprise & Strategic Sales, Keith Weiss, Morgan Stanley's Head of U.S. Software Research Jeff McMillan, Morgan Stanley's Head of Firmwide Artificial Intelligence, recorded on Monday, March 24.

CRC4303146 03/2025
Online

Additional Replays

Resources and Research

We seek to make complex financial ideas more understandable so our clients know what is being done on their behalf to plan for their financial future. Take a look below to see our latest market updates and reports from the top research analysts at Morgan Stanley.
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    2025 Federal Contributions and Tax Tables
    This document outlines the 2025 tax rate schedule, retirement contribution and deduction limits, education and health savings account limits, among other information.
    View 2025 Tax Tables
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    Thoughts on the Market Podcast
    With perspectives on the forces shaping the market, Mike Wilson, Chief Investment Officer and Chief US Equity Strategist for Morgan Stanley, and fellow Morgan Stanley colleagues discuss a variety of viewpoints regarding the latest trends in the financial marketplace.
    Listen to the latest episode
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    Global Investment Committee: "On the Markets" Report
    Every month, Morgan Stanley’s top research analysts publish their “On the Markets” report, providing detailed market commentary on such topics as global equities, fixed income and monetary policy.
    Read the most recent edition
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    Education Planning Center
    With education costs rising, paying for college has become a major expense that requires smart planning. Find answers to your questions here about 529 accounts.
    Review the advantages of 529 Accounts
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    Financial Planning: LifeView Goals Analysis
    Leveraging our LifeView Goals Analysis tool, I will work with you to create a personalized financial plan and wealth strategy. Over time, we will adapt it to changing circumstances, helping you achieve your goals and protect what is meaningful to you.
    LifeView Goal Analysis: Sample Client Profile
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    Tax Efficient Investing
    Taxes are a substantial drag on your investments and it compounds over time. A recent Morgan Stanley report found that an improvement of 0.5% per year in after tax returns resulted in an enormous difference in wealth after 30 years.
    Keep More of What You Earn

Our Digital Tools

Morgan Stanley is at the forefront of technology and constantly investing in our cutting edge platform to help you on your financial journey. Below find our expanded suite of client focused tools that play an integral role in our modern wealth approach.
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    Morgan Stanley Online
    Beyond viewing your account balance and activity, Morgan Stanley Online (MSO) has a suite of features that allow you to manage your everyday finances from paying bills and sending money to transferring funds and authorizing transactions with eAuthorizations.
    What Can I Do with MSO?
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    Total Wealth View
    It’s hard to see the complete picture with only half the details. As a Morgan Stanley client, you can now conveniently view your accounts from other financial institutions within Morgan Stanley Online or by using the our Morgan Stanley Mobile App, giving you a more complete financial picture.
    Check Out Total Wealth View!
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    LifeView
    Morgan Stanley’s LifeView® Financial Planning tool’s client portal allows us to provide you with more robust financial planning capabilities, while giving you an easier and more intuitive user experience so you can track your progress towards your goals every day.
    Review a Sample LiveView Financial Plan
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    Portfolio Risk Platform
    Portfolio Risk Platform – Powered by BlackRock's Aladdin is a risk management platform that provides comprehensive risk estimation and reporting across a broad range of asset classes and security types. This platform provides a holistic view to better enable risk to be effectively monitored and managed.
    See the power of the Portfolio Risk Platform

Client Service Team

    Melissa Scharf - Client Service Associate
    Phone:
    (973) 660-4736(973) 660-4736
    Email:Melissa.Stacy.Scharf@morganstanley.com

Location

340 Mount Kemble Avenue
Morristown, NJ 07960
US
Direct:
(973) 236-3678(973) 236-3678
Wealth Management
From My Desk

Want to Keep More of Your Investment Returns? Consider These Tax Moves


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 Rick Donovan today.
Market Information Delayed 20 Minutes
Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. (CFP Board) owns the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, and CFP® (with plaque design) in the United States, which it authorizes use of by individuals who successfully complete CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements.

1Morgan Stanley Wealth Management is the trade name of Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC, a registered broker-dealer in the United States.

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

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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.

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3When 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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4Morgan 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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5Morgan 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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6When 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 always check with their tax or legal advisor before engaging in any transaction involving 529 Plans, Education Savings Accounts and other tax-advantaged investments.

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7Alternative 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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8Insurance 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.

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)