Managing your wealth. Expanding your opportunities.

The Bledsoe Group at Morgan Stanley is a highly-experienced team that can help you grow wealth, protect assets, and minimize your tax exposure. Clients turn to us because our true value is in reducing their financial stress and making them feel comfortable today—and more optimistic about their future.
Services Include
Check the background of Our Firm and Investment Professionals on FINRA's BrokerCheck.*
What Sets Us Apart
What distinguishes us is that our entire investment process is custom-made for each client by our team. We don’t pull products off the shelf or put your future in someone else’s hands. Instead, you’ll have a one-of-a kind plan that’s 100% based on the unique goals you’ve set for yourself and your family. If you’ve ever looked at the 24-hour news cycle and worried about what the future holds, we can help.

Wealth management for today—and for generations to come.

We believe that holistic wealth management is about more than just making money. We’re here to open the door to new options and opportunities for you and your family.
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    Manage Your Wealth
    • Customized investment planning
    • Risk assessment
    • Cash flow analysis
    • Tax-efficient asset allocation
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    Shape Your Retirement
    • Income planning and distribution
    • Social Security Analysis
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    Minimize Your Risk
    • Tax-mitigation strategies
    • Insurance solutions
    • Next-level Cybersecurity
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    Earn Your Trust
    • High-touch communication process
    • Clear financial guidance

Helping your entire family reach new heights

Our clients are hard-working individuals who are looking to provide a better future for their families. We know that every family is different and has a unique dynamic. That’s why we listen very carefully to your concerns and desires before we cater our financial advice to your specific needs.

We understand family very well because we’re a father and son team—and we’re truly fortunate to work with a great group of people who we consider family and friends.
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    Financial Planning that supports your Family Dynamic
    Every family has their own approach to family finances. Whether you keep separate accounts, combined accounts or suddenly need to adjust your accounts due to a life event, we can serve as your intermediary and a source of trustworthy advice.
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    Estate Planning
    There are a lot of moving pieces when it comes to estates. By serving as your point person, you’ll have one trusted voice communicating all your instructions clearly to everyone from estate lawyers to your loved ones. Our vast experience can also help you to mitigate your tax exposure.
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    Charitable Giving
    As part of your legacy, we know how to maximize the impact you’ll have on the causes and institutions you care about the most.
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    College Planning
    After consulting with you about your situation, we will create the most tax-efficient strategy that helps you save proactively for your children’s or grandchildren’s education.
Small business is the heartbeat of the American economy. We understand the challenges your business may face with everything from cash flow and taxes to recruiting the best talent. The entire Bledsoe Group is deeply invested in your success. We’re by your side to help navigate you through difficult times and celebrate your milestones.
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    Strategic Lending
    In order to grow, it’s important it is to invest in your business. By getting to know your goals, we can offer the most appropriate lending solutions.
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    Retirement Savings Plans
    We know how important retirement and tax benefits are for you and your employees. We can help structure a plan that meets your goals and offers the types of benefits that attract recruits and keep your employees happy.


    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. 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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    Tax Mitigation
    We offer strategies to minimize your tax burden and more.

Location

6340 Quadrangle Drive
Ste 300
Chapel Hill, NC 27517
US
Direct:
(919) 490-7171(919) 490-7171
1990 Fordham Drive
Fayetteville, NC 28304
US

Meet The Bledsoe Group

About Me

I started in the financial services industry in 1992 and measure my success in terms of how well my clients are doing in reaching their goals. It’s deeply satisfying to see how an investment plan that was hand-crafted when I first met a client, has translated into them retiring comfortably, building their business, and putting their children through college. The Bledsoe Group does more than create a financial roadmap, we celebrate each milestone you achieve along the way.

My primary role is forging relationships that endure. Clients turn to me to provide much more than traditional financial advice, retirement planning and long-range guidance. As a qualified Portfolio Manager, I’m able to create personalized strategies that serve as a roadmap for each of my client’s success stories. By providing oversight over portfolios, I’m in a position to help shape their future and help them enjoy more of what life has to offer.

Family is my #1 priority. I have been married to my wonderful wife, Pamela, since 1982. We enjoy spending time with our 3 children and 5 grandchildren at our home and also love taking family vacations together. I believe that faith and family values can make this world a better place. That’s why I am so active in my community. I have been the Chair of the YMCA Board, on the Methodist University Board of Visitors and involved in several charities, including Feed My Starving Children, Operation Inasmuch and the Agape Crisis Pregnancy Center.

In addition to founding The Bledsoe Group. I hold a Chartered Retirement Plans Specialist℠ designation (CRPS®), as well as the Certified Plan Fiduciary Advisor designation (QPFC®). In my spare time, I enjoy traveling and learning as much as possible about history.


Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC 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 visit us at http://www.morganstanleyindividual.com or consult with your Financial Advisor to understand these differences. 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. The strategies and/or investments discussed in this material may not be appropriate for all investors. Morgan Stanley Wealth Management recommends that investors independently evaluate particular investments and strategies, and encourages investors to seek the advice of a Financial Advisor. The appropriateness of a particular investment or strategy will depend on an investor's individual circumstances and objectives.
Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC. CRC 4802157 06/2022
Securities Agent: CO, CA, TN, OH, VA, FL, NC, AZ, TX, KY, IA, NM, SC, VT, NY, MS, MD, PA, NV; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative
NMLS#: 700522

About Me

Helping clients like you become more financially secure is not just a job, it’s my passion. That starts by listening closely to the goals you’ve set for yourself, your family or business. I am proud that the Bledsoe Group never resorts to stereotypical formulas or cookie-cutter solutions. We create an investment strategy for each client based on their actual needs, challenges, and desires.

My primary role is a mix of managing investments, security analysis and making smart investment decisions that are designed to help you succeed. I began my career as a Financial Solutions Consultant before joining The Bledsoe Group in 2015, where I serve as a Financial Advisor and Portfolio Manager. I hold many designations, including Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor℠ (CRPC®) and Certified Investment Management Analyst® (CIMA®).

I graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from the Cameron School of Business at the University of North Carolina Wilmington. My wife Becca and our son Owen are happy to call Durham our home. I enjoy gardening and cooking up a good meal for my family; however, I make time to go fishing whenever the opportunity arises. As a family, we are passionate about giving back to our community and are involved with Independent Animal Rescue, Feed My Starving Children, and the Durham Rescue Mission.


Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC 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 visit us at http://www.morganstanleyindividual.com or consult with your Financial Advisor to understand these differences. 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. The strategies and/or investments discussed in this material may not be appropriate for all investors. Morgan Stanley Wealth Management recommends that investors independently evaluate particular investments and strategies, and encourages investors to seek the advice of a Financial Advisor. The appropriateness of a particular investment or strategy will depend on an investor's individual circumstances and objectives.
Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC. CRC 4802157 06/2022
SC, VA, NY, MD, AZ, NV, VT, PA, KY, TN, MS, IA, OH, NM, FL, CO, NC, CA, TX; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative
NMLS#: 1242143

About Jennifer Kahoul

As a Portfolio Associate with the Bledsoe Group, my role is to deliver the highest level of service possible. I understand that when our clients reach out to us, they deserve to have their questions addressed quickly and clearly. It’s a responsibility I take quite seriously, but my friendly personality makes connecting with our clients a real joy.

In addition to assisting with our clients’ day-to-day needs, I’m driven to deepen my understanding of investment management and retirement planning strategies. I hold my Series 7, 66 and 63 licenses, and I’m registered to serve investors in various states around the country.

I started my career as a Client Service Associate with UBS Financial Services more than 18 years ago. In 2015, I joined Morgan Stanley and landed in the Chapel Hill office in 2021. Being part of The Bledsoe Group is a privilege because I get to work with the right people and the best clients.

I grew up in Alexandria, VA and moved to Louisville, KY to raise my two daughters, Sarah (a music teacher) and Chelsea (a physician). I now call Raleigh my home and relocated here to be closer to family. Outside of the office I enjoy spending time with friends and family, taking care of my kitties, hiking, gaming, and travelling.

About Krista Lee

My primary role on the Bledsoe Team is working alongside clients to help identify their financial needs. That way you’ll have a clear direction on how your investments will meet your needs throughout your lifetime. It’s a process that’s designed to inspire you and give peace of mind as you move forward toward retirement.

I am client-centric and enjoy getting to know you and learning more about your challenges and aspirations for your families. I’m committed to providing superior customer support, cheerfully addressing a wide range of administrative requests, and offering knowledgeable support best suited to your situation.

I’m originally from Minnesota but have loved calling North Carolina home since 2003. I graduated from Methodist University in Fayetteville with a degree in Business in 2013. Before working at Morgan Stanley, I gained valuable experience at Methodist University, a local liberal arts university, in an administrative role in the Advancement Office and PGA Golf Management Program. Outside of the office, you'll typically find me spending time with my husband, Jason and our dog Moses. I enjoy the great outdoors and serving in my community alongside my church family and friends.
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
Are You Prepared for Tax Day?
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Are You Prepared for Tax Day?

The countdown to Tax Day has begun. Here are some strategies to consider as the deadline approaches.

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 The Bledsoe Group today.
1Morgan 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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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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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 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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4Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC does not accept appointments nor will it act as a trustee but it will provide access to trust services through an appropriate third-party corporate trustee.
Morgan 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 (“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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6Products and services are provided by third party service providers, not Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (“Morgan Stanley”). Morgan Stanley may not receive a referral fee or have any input concerning such products or services. There may be additional service providers for comparative purposes. Please perform a thorough due diligence and make your own independent decision.
Morgan 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, charitable giving, philanthropic planning and other legal matters.

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7Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (“Morgan Stanley”), its affiliates and Morgan Stanley Financial Advisors or 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 legal matters.

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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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9Insurance 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)