Welcome

John, Jeff, and Justin, the primary advisors on the BKF Bridge Group, each have over 30 years experience in the financial services industry and business experience. Our experience and resources are focused on one objective; to help you achieve your financial goals. We accomplish this by creating custom financial plans for retirement, education funding, income or estate planning.  We believe that the most effective way to accomplish this is with a personal, confidential meeting to learn about your financial goals. Please feel free to contact us to discuss any questions that you may have.

The BKF Bridge Group at Morgan Stanley is built around the concept of exceptional customer service. This service consists of twelve monthly scheduled client contacts; four of which are quarterly reviews with two being in person. These scheduled meetings demonstrate our commitment to our clients along with our client service associate who is there to help you with any question or issue that may arise.
See What Our Clients Have to Say...
  • The BKF Bridge Group. Sounds like a bunch of people who get together to play card games. But its more than that. John Berg—who heads the group—has advised my wife and I for close to 30 years. And now John (and his cohorts Jeff and Justin) provides financial counsel not just to us but also to the two generations that follow us. John Berg was originally recommended to us by our Smith Barney advisor at the time, who was about to retire. Smith Barney became Morgan Stanley, and John Berg advises us to this day. It should be noted that John and his team have access to the same Dow Jones, Wall Street Journal, and Morgan Stanley data as hundreds of advisors. John’s long tenure as our financial counselor, however, is based on another important bit of research: he has come to know my wife and I and our families personally. He talks with us routinely and regularly, most notably when he has no buy/sell recommendations, but just to follow up with us and discuss our portfolio. Having suffered in our early investing years through a seemingly endless cadre of brokers simply looking for the next sale, John Berg is like a breath of fresh air. We can heartily endorse him and his group. -Dennis M.
  • I "inherited" John Berg when my former financial advisor retired. It caused me to consider moving my accounts from Morgan Stanley to another firm. After reviewing the performance of my portfolio and discussing with John his proposed approach to managing my accounts going forward, I decided I would "give him a chance". That decision ended up being one of the better investment decisions I have made. His recommendations have been 'tailored' to meet my investment goals-even in 'down markets'. He has made astute suggestions to reallocate funds to meet the goals we have set. I don't always agree with his suggestions, but I'm impressed with the fact that he and his team focus on these goals no matter the market trend. -John M.
Check the background of Our Firm and Investment Professionals on FINRA's BrokerCheck.*

Core Capabilities

As your wealth grows, so does its complexities and the resources needed to manage it effectively. We leverage our experience and relationships to deliver strategies tailored to meet all of your needs. We look forward to speaking with you to understand your challenges, so we may map out a strategy to achieve your particular priorities and goals.
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    Wealth Management
    Wealth management brings all the aspects of your life together. We listen carefully to understand the connections across your personal life, your family, your career, and your legacy goals to develop a comprehensive strategy that is uniquely yours.
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    Estate & Philanthropic Planning Strategies
    Delivering an estate to the next generation of wealth or favorite charity requires more attention than is often recognized. We can coordinate with your estate and tax professionals to align your legacy goals with the appropriate asset titling and beneficiary designations.
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    Retirement Planning
    Having enough income to comfortably cover all necessary expenses is a key to a successful retirement. Sources of retirement income will vary by client and typically include Social Security, retirement accounts, and/or pension payments, as well as other sources such as investments, rental income, or an inheritance.
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    Entrepreneur Financial Planning
    We can help small business owners to fund their business and manage their finances appropriately. We will assist you in developing a budget, determining your ongoing cash flow needs, and raising capital.
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    High Net Worth Investing
    We can assist with millionaire estate planning and investing strategies, private aviation lending and purchase, and other needs that high net worth investors may have.

Retirement Resources

Our team will work with you to understand what your priorities are and implement a customized strategy for you. Whether it is planning for retirement, saving for retirement, transitioning into retirement, or managing your assets when already in retirement, our team is equipped with the knowledge and tools to help you accomplish your personal and financial goal.
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    Understanding Your Savings Vehicles
    When it comes to retirement savings, the most important thing is to get started—after all, time is one of your greatest assets. Although retirement may seem far for some, it is essential to get started on planning for future living expenses, potential education funds, or travel costs. Let us help you educate on ways to grow and preserve your wealth.
    Learn About 401k Strategies
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    Transitioning Into a Retirement Mindset
    Most retirement preparations focus on financial planning, but it is equally crucial to look at personal considerations that will help you with easing the fear of the unknown. Given that many people overlook the psychological adjustments of retirement, we can help you understand why it’s important to be emotionally (not just financially) ready for retirement.
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    Risks to Your Retirement
    Once you determine what kind of retiree you want to be, we will work together to take a closer look at the risks that might be standing between you and your retirement goals. No matter how well you save during the accumulation phase, it’s critical to plan how you convert those assets to income. We can help you navigate the challenges that may arise.
    Learn More About Planning
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    Impact of Taxes
    The strategies you use when taking out your retirement savings can have a significant impact on how much you’ll pay in taxes and may help you keep more of the returns. Each retiree’s situation is different but establishing a tax management strategy for your investments can help you retain more of your investment returns.
    Tax-Efficient Strategies

Legacy & Estate Planning

We believe in educating the next generation of investors. We work with you and your family to provide insight, advice, and educational resources in order to do so. Our team is equipped to handle multigenerational wealth and family finance planning, estate planning, and trust funds.
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    Legacies that Last
    Learn how to start thinking about legacy planning and how we are here to help guide you.
    Watch Video
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    Teaching Children About Finances
    Explore and understand the importance of teaching your kids about money.
    Watch Video
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    The Magic of Compound Interest
    With compound interest, it's never too early to start savings-even small amounts can add up quickly.
    Watch Video
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    The Budget Breakdown
    To help avoid money stress and empower you to make smarter financial decisions, this video breaks down how to create a monthly budget.
    Watch Video
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    How to Pay Off Debt
    Learn about the different types of debt and how you can pay it off in three steps.
    Watch Video
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    Introduction to Investing
    Understand the basics of investing and find out that getting started is easier than you think.
    Watch Video

Digital Tools

Morgan Stanley is at the forefront of technology in the financial services industry. As a part of our services, these resources are readily available for our clients to utilize.
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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
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    Goals Based Planning
    Working with us, paired with our technology, you'll be able 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 More About GPS
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    Online Security Center
    At Morgan Stanley, safeguarding your assets and personal information is amongst 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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    Digital Vault
    The Digital Vault on Morgan Stanley Online and the Mobile App allows you to build a central, shared document library where all documents are stored using encryption.
    Learn More About Digital Vault
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    eDelivery
    eDelivery provides you with the ability to view statements and other Firm documents electronically. Clients who are registered on Morgan Stanley Online may enroll in eDelivery.
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    Reserved Living & Giving
    Reserved Living & Giving is a tiered complimentary loyalty program that rewards Morgan Stanley's clients. The program is designed to enhance your lifestyle and relationship with the firm beyond traditional wealth management services.
    Learn More About Reserved
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    Total Wealth View
    The ability to view all of your assets together provides the opportunity to advise on your Morgan Stanley accounts with your entire financial picture in mind.
    Learn More About Total Wealth View

Location

2211 York Rd
Ste 100
Oak Brook, IL 60523
US
Direct:
(630) 203-6110(630) 203-6110
Toll-Free:
(800) 755-9755(800) 755-9755

Meet The BKF Bridge Group

About John E Berg

I purchased my first stock at the age of 14 and investing has been in my blood ever since. So, in 1986 I became a financial advisor and have been with Morgan Stanley since 1991.

Helping clients achieve their goals as financial markets, solutions, and services continuously increase in complexity is a challenge for any advisor, I believe meeting the needs of investors today requires team work. With that in mind, we formed the BKF Bridge Group at Morgan Stanley. The name Bridge Group is intended to demonstrate our goal to bridge multigenerational relationships. For one family we have had the honor of serving 5 generations.

We are committed to making a meaningful difference in the lives of our clients by helping them achieve their financial goals. Our dedication to this commitment encompasses working diligently to develop and execute comprehensive tailored financial plans, and investment strategies. Our team has a goal of repeatable, sustainable returns by focusing on the risks of the markets more than the returns. We seek a good decade of returns; not just a good year.

We believe that our clients deserve a talented wealth management team who shares their vision, earns their trust, and delivers high-level service and communication. We endeavor to build long-lasting relationships with our clients and their families.

I have been happily married to my wife Kelly for over 35 years. Together we have successfully raised our two sons Kyle and Zach, now adults and doing very well. Our home is a very busy place, filled with activity largely from our crazy dog Ziggy and frequent presence of our grandson.

Areas of Focus:

*Wealth Management
*Financial Planning
*Estate Planning Strategies
*Portfolio Management
*Retirement Planning
*Education Funding
*Income Generation
*Structured Investments
*Generational Gifting

Professional Details
Education:
B.S. - Finance, Economics and Accounting, 1986
Elmhurst College
Elmhurst, IL

Employment History:
1991 - Present: Morgan Stanley
Financial Advisor
1986 - 1991: Merrill Lynch
Financial Advisor

Licenses and Appointments:

Master's Club- Morgan Stanley

Financial Planning Specialist Designation
Series 7 - General Securities Representative, 1986
Series 63 - Uniform State Exam, 1997
Life & Variable Annuities Licensed, 1987
Health & Accident Insurance Licensed, 1997
Consulting Group University School of Investment Management, 1998
Century Council
Smith Barney

Hobbies & Community Work:
DuPage Woodworkers Club
Member
Glen Ellyn Food Pantry
Board member & Volunteer
Securities Agent: NE, FL, WA, VA, CO, CA, OK, NV, NJ, ME, KS, NH, MD, KY, DC, AR, CT, GA, AK, WI, MO, MI, IA, TN, DE, SC, OH, NM, MN, MA, IL, NY, IN, AZ, PA, TX, NC; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative; Managed Futures
NMLS#: 1294042
CA Insurance License #: 0D19026

About Jeff Kramer

Jeff is a Vice President and Financial Advisor on the BKF Bridge Group at Morgan Stanley. Jeff has achieved a successful career in financial services and business by building strong customer relationships and providing exceptional customer service. His clients include individuals, families, pro athletes, and private businesses. Jeff's years of experience in the industry has taught him how to help clients navigate the various cycles that markets go through and help them understand the risks and rewards of investing. Jeff takes each client and gets an understanding of their needs and makes sure that the client has a strategy and plan for them to achieve their financial goals.

Prior to joining Morgan Stanley, he held several positions in the financial services industry at Allstate, UBS O’Connor, where he managed institutional money for each firm. Jeff also founded and helps manage a sports training facility for high level baseball players in the west suburbs of Chicago.

Jeff is a CFA charter holder, which he earned in 1999. The CFA designation is a distinguished credential awarded to professionals who meet rigorous standards and agree to adhere to ethical standards set by the CFA Institute. He has a Masters of Finance degree from Northern Illinois University and a BBA in Finance from the University of Iowa.

Jeff lives in the Western Suburbs of Chicago with his wife Kristin. He enjoys coaching baseball and playing golf.
Securities Agent: MI, AK, AR, AZ, CA, CO, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, MA, MD, ME, MN, MO, NC, NE, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA, WA, WI, NH; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative
NMLS#: 1566224

About Justin Fredian

Justin is a Senior Portfolio Manager who is a recent addition to the BKF group of Morgan Stanley. Justin has been managing client goals, objectives and dreams for over 3 decades. His favorite workplace happening is when a client is so pleased with his work that they refer family and friends. Nothing is better to the BKF group and Justin than helping our clients successfully navigate the changing economy and markets that continue to challenge us. He prides himself on working together with his team and clients to enjoy mutual prosperity.

Prior to joining Morgan Stanley, Justin was a Senior Vice President with Smith Barney and the same with JP Morgan Private Bank.

He graduated from Loyola University with a degree in accounting and finance. He is also, a Certified Financial Planner, CFP, and started his career doing financial plans for the owners of closely held businesses. Because he holds the CFP license, he is held to a fiduciary standard by the industry which mandates you must act in the best interests of your client.

Justin lives in the Western suburbs with his wife, Meg. He enjoys playing pickleball/tennis and golf.
Securities Agent: OK, SC, NJ, MI, MD, GA, FL, AK, TX, NH, NC, KS, DC, VA, OH, MN, DE, AR, NM, MA, IA, CA, WA, NY, MO, KY, CO, ME, TN, IN, WI, AZ, NV, PA, NE, IL; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative; Managed Futures
NMLS#: 1297685

About Zachary Berg

Zach is a Financial Advisor with the BKF Bridge Group at Morgan Stanley. Using Morgan Stanley’s many world-class tools and services, he builds, maintains, and develops financial plans and investment strategies that suit each of his client’s needs and goals. Zach believes that every client is unique and thus deserves an experience tailored for them.

Prior to joining Morgan Stanley, Zach was a consultant analyst for businesses with $3-50 million in annual revenue. In this previous role, he learned the intricacies and challenges that many small businesses and their owners face. He uses his experience in the development of roadmaps for his clients to help them understand the risks and rewards of investing and the potential obstacles that business owners may face.

Zach holds the Financial Planning Specialist designation which has enhanced his ability to plan for his clients’ future. He graduated from Tulane University where he majored in both Finance and Management with a specialization in consulting.

Zach lives in Glen Ellyn and enjoys traveling, shooting skeet, and watching his Chicago Bears occasionally beat the Green Bay Packers.

Securities Agent: AK, AR, AZ, CA, CO, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MI, MN, MO, NC, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA, WA, WI; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative
NMLS#: 2667077
Securities Agent: IL, NY, FL, TX, NH, ME, MD, KS, WA, TN, NJ, NE, MI, MA, IA, PA, NV, MO, DC, AK, GA, CO, CA, OK, VA, NM, WI, SC, OH, NC, MN, KY, DE, AZ, IN, AR; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative
NMLS#: 2667077

About Jennifer Klonowski

As a Registered CSA, Jennifer will be assisting clients with all Operational and Administrative needs. Prior to her new Morgan Stanley position, she spent 14 years managing customer service and trading at EMC Capital Management, a Commodity Trading Advisor. Most recently she was a Registered Branch Associate at Edward Jones for the past 7 years.

Jennifer lives in Westmont with her son Alex and their Golden Retriever Lily. She enjoys spending time with her son, playing golf and watching college football.

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

About Jordan Hoerter

Jordan Hoerter is a Private Banker serving Morgan Stanley Wealth Management offices in Illinois.

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.

Jordan began his career in financial services in 2010 and joined Morgan Stanley in 2019. Prior to joining the firm, he was Vice President, Private Banker at Associated Bank.

Jordan is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin Stevens Point where he received a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Marketing. He lives in Chicago, Illinois.. Jordan donates his time with United Way, Emerging Leaders, Blessings in a Backpack and Junior Achievement.

When not in the office, Jordan enjoys running, snowboarding, traveling and spending time with his family.
NMLS#: 1445073

About Amy Gross

Amy Gross is a Vice President and Financial Planning Director serving Morgan Stanley’s Wealth Management offices in the Chicago suburbs. She is responsible for helping Financial Advisors with their clients' and prospects' financial planning needs.

Amy began her career in financial services in 2009 and joined Morgan Stanley in 2021. Prior to her current position, she worked at Merrill Lynch and Credit Suisse as a Senior Registered Associate working with high-net-worth clients on an individual basis and making sure all their financial and operational needs were met.

Amy graduated from Illinois State University and holds her Certified Financial Planner® designation. Amy lives in Brookfield, IL with her husband Garrett, daughter Felicity and son Emmett. Outside of work, Amy enjoys both going to and volunteering at Brookfield Zoo and is a Chicago Zoological Association Associate Board Member. Outside of work she enjoys reading, traveling and exploring new places whenever she can.
Wealth Management
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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.
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  • IRA Plans
  • Retirement income strategies
  • Retirement plan participants
  • Annuities
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Investing

Working closely with you to guide your wealth and investments through the most challenging market cycles.
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  • Wealth Planning
  • Traditional Investments
  • Alternative Investments
  • Impact Investing
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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
Are You Prepared for Tax Day?
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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
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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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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.

Mosaic

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A Change of Greenery

Houseplants add oxygen, flair, and warmth year-round, and the right one in the right space can do just as much for a room as any painting or side table.
Ready to start a conversation? Contact The BKF Bridge Group today.
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Awards Disclosures
CRC 6491812 (04/2024)