The Boca Tropics Group

Michael is a Managing Director, Private Wealth Advisor and Portfolio Manager with Morgan Stanley Private Wealth Management. He spent the previous 23+ years working at Merrill Lynch serving Ultra High Net Worth clients. Michael is a graduate of Cornell University with a Degree in Economics and earned his MBA in International Business from Lynn University.

He was named to the Forbes “Best-in-State” Wealth Advisors list for the past 7 consecutive years in 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 & 2024 since the inauguration of the Forbes listing.

Michael and his partners lead a team at Morgan Stanley Private Wealth Management with a focus on Ultra High Net Worth Individuals, Business Owners, Family Offices, Foundations, and Institutional clients, both in the United States and abroad. He was one of the few International Accredited Advisors at Merrill Lynch.

He is currently a top ranked Tennis player on the ITF. Michael began his collegiate career at Brown University before transferring to Cornell University to play tennis. He was named the Ivy League Player of the Year at Cornell and was inducted into Cornell’s Hall of Fame. Michael was a first-team All-Ivy pick and was named Co-Captain of the Cornell tennis team his Senior year.
Michael resides in Boca Raton with his wife, Lauren.

2018-2024 Forbes Best-In- State Wealth Advisors
Source: Forbes.com (Awarded 2018-2024). Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based 12-month time period concluding in June of year prior to the issuance of the award.

Michael Passeroff is a Managing Director, Senior Portfolio Manager and Financial Advisor at Morgan Stanley Wealth Management, bringing more than two decades of distinguished experience in wealth planning and investment management. Over the course of his career, Michael has taken great pride in delivering exceptional, results-driven service to his clients, having previously help advisory roles at both Merrill Lynch and Smith Barney.

Michael focuses on serving Ultra High Net Worth individuals and business owners, offering boutique, concierge-style capabilities that prioritize personalization, precision, and white-glove attention. His approach is built on the belief that clients of significant complexity deserve not only sophisticated financial strategies, but a deeply personalized relationship rooted in trust and accountability.

A testament to his experience and commitment to excellence, Michael has been named to the Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Advisors list for seven consecutive years - 2018 through 2024.

Beyond his professional achievements, Michael is deeply invested in the communities he serves. He is a Founding Board Member of the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Foundation and has served as a Board Member of the Boys and Girls Club of both Palm Beach and Boca Raton.

Originally from Sheepshead Bay, Brooklyn, Michael now resides in Boca Raton, Florida with his wife Kelly and daughter, Sidnie.

2018-2024 Forbes Best-In- State Wealth Advisors
Source: Forbes.com (Awarded 2018-2024). Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based 12-month time period concluding in June of year prior to the issuance of the award.

Matthew is a Managing Director and Financial Advisor with Morgan Stanley Wealth Management. He spent the previous 24+ years with Merrill Lynch. Prior to joining the team, Matthew served as the Market Executive for the Boca Delray Market, spanning Boca Raton and Delray Beach for Merrill Lynch Wealth Management. Additionally, he served as the Market Integration Executive for Bank of America’s West Palm Beach Market, responsible for integrating and coordinating business between Bank of America, Bank of America Private Bank, and Merrill.

Matthew and his team provide wide-ranging wealth management strategies for high-net-worth individuals and businesses. His experience and collaborative network allow us to draw on a wealth of Firm expertise, offering customized insights, perspectives, skills and strategies that enable families and businesses to achieve their goals. Focusing on helping our clients achieve their desired outcomes – we strive to offer the right capabilities, remove complexity, and constantly adjust and adapt with the changing markets, economies, and financial landscape.

Prior to being named Market Executive of the Boca Delray Complex, Matthew served as Resident Director of the Miami Brickell office, Resident Director of the Coral Gables office (overseeing operations of Merrill Private Wealth Management) for the Miami Americas Market, and Market Sales Manager and Training Coordinator for the Boca Delray Market. Matthew began his Merrill Lynch career in 1999 as a Financial Advisor in the East Boca Raton, Florida office and has held various senior roles over the past 20 years.

Matthew served four years with the United States Marine Corps. He spent two years with the Marine Corps Security Forces Unit, London, UK. After his Security Forces tour, he was attached to the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit S.O.C. (Special Operations Capable), where he participated in joint NATO operations in Bosnia-Herzegovina and North Africa in 1998. While aboard the U.S.S. Trenton, he and his men were designated for T.R.A.P. (Tactical Recovery of Aircraft and Personnel) missions during day and night flight operations.

Additionally, Matthew serves as a Board Member for the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Foundation. Matthew, his wife Kristen, and their two daughters, Alexis & Brooke, reside in Palm Beach County.

Felipe Gonet is a Senior Vice President at Morgan Stanley Wealth Management, bringing over 14 years of comprehensive financial industry experience to his clients. Based in Boca Raton, Florida, Felipe has built a distinguished career advising a diverse clientele that includes Ultra High Net Worth individuals, international investors, small business owners, and professionals seeking sophisticated financial guidance.

Felipe joined Morgan Stanley a decade ago, where he has continued to deepen his focus in wealth management and private banking. Prior to Morgan Stanley, he spent four years at Citigroup Global Markets, laying a strong foundation in global financial markets and investment strategy. His broad institutional background enables him to deliver tailored, sophisticated solutions to clients with complex financial needs across international borders.

A native of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Felipe is fluent in Portuguese, Spanish, and English, allowing him to serve clients across the Americas and beyond with both cultural fluency and financial acumen. His international perspective, combined with deep ties to the Florida market, positions him uniquely to advise clients who navigate the complexities of cross-border wealth planning and investment.

Having lived in Florida for the past 15 years-and previously in Boston, Massachusetts-Felipe has developed a strong understanding of both domestic and international landscapes that shape his clients' goals. He resides in Parkland with his wife, Larissa, and their two children, Lucca and Livia.

Outside of work, Felipe is a passionate and accomplished musician who has been playing the piano since the age of eight. He leads an active lifestyle, embracing the Florida outdoors and cherishing quality time with his family.

Joel P. Frost is a Vice President, Financial Advisor and Portfolio Manager with Morgan Stanley Wealth Management, bringing more than four and a half decades of financial experience to his clients. Prior to joining Morgan Stanley, Joel spent 17 distinguished years with Merrill Lynch, building a career defined by integrity, deep client relationships and a steadfast commitment to financial excellence.

What distinguishes Joel's practice is his ability to deliver the intimacy and personal attention of a boutique financial advisory firm, backed by the resources and reach of one of the world's premier wealth management institutions. He provides comprehensive money management consulting services to a diverse clientele that includes families, trusts, businesses, retirement plans and nonprofit organizations.

At the heart of Joel's philosophy is objective, client-centered financial advice. He works collaboratively with each client to develop tailored strategies that thoughtfully balance the critical dimensions of liquidity, taxes, income, risk and return with the goal of delivering consistent, meaningful results across all market cycles. His disciplined approach helps ensure that every recommendation is aligned with the client's unique financial circumstances and long-term objectives.

Joel holds a degree from the University of Miami and remains deeply committed to giving back to the communities he serves. He is actively involved in a wide range of local and national philanthropic organizations, reflecting his belief that true success extends well beyond the balance sheet.

Karen Ashby is a Vice President and Group Director with Morgan Stanley Private Wealth Management, bringing over four decades of experience in the financial services industry. Prior to joining Morgan Stanley, Karen spent 44 years with Merrill Lynch, where she held a series of progressively responsible roles. She served as a Client Relationship Manager in the Boca Raton Market for 23 years before transitioning into the Private Wealth Business Manager role, developing deep experience in client service and wealth management operations.

Known for her commitment to excellence and a solutions-driven approach, Karen is dedicated to delivering the highest standards of service to the clients and teams she supports. Her ability to navigate complex challenges with professionalism and precision has been a hallmark of her career. Karen holds FINRA Series 7, 9, 10 and 66 registrations.

Originally from Cleveland, Ohio, she has called Boca Raton, Florida home for many years. Outside of work, Karen is an avid outdoor enthusiast who enjoys cycling, backpacking and kayaking.

Kyle Stevenson, CFP^®, is an Assistant Vice President and Wealth Management Associate with Morgan Stanley Private Wealth Management, bringing seven years of experience in the wealth management industry. Prior to joining Morgan Stanley, Kyle served as a Private Wealth Planner at Merrill Lynch, where he spent five years developing comprehensive financial strategies for individuals and families.

Kyle's professional focus is centered on guiding clients toward their financial objectives through a holistic and personalized approach to planning. He develops tailored wealth management strategies encompassing cash flow analysis, tax optimization, insurance planning and long-term wealth building, each thoughtfully aligned with the distinct goals of the individuals and families he serves. Kyle is equally committed to financial education, empowering his clients with the knowledge and confidence to make informed decisions and navigate complex monetary challenges.

Kyle holds the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, CFP^® certification from the CFP^® Board of Standards, Inc., having completed the educational component at Georgetown University. He is also a graduate of American University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science.

Deeply committed to his community, Kyle actively engages with nonprofit and civic organizations, including the Financial Planning Association of South Florida.

Originally from Reston, Virginia, Kyle now resides in South Florida with his wife, Alejandra, their two children and two terriers. Outside of the office, he enjoys traveling, cycling, woodworking and DIY projects.

Vanessa White is a Portfolio Associate where she has been a valued member of the team since 2017. Holding both her Series 7 and Series 66 licenses, Vanessa brings a strong foundation in financial services paired with an unwavering dedication to client satisfaction.

Vanessa's professional journey began in the hospitality industry at a premier ski resort in Vail, Colorado, where she cultivated exceptional interpersonal and customer service skills through daily interaction with individuals from around the world. In 2012, she relocated to Boca Raton, Florida, channeling her passion for numbers and her commitment to excellence into a career in financial services. Prior to joining Morgan Stanley, she served as a Client Service Associate at Citibank, further refining her experience in client relations and financial operations.

Fluent in English, Spanish, and Portuguese, Vanessa possesses a distinct ability to engage with and serve a diverse clientele, making her a trusted resource for both domestic and international clients alike.

Outside of her professional life, Vanessa treasures time spent with her family and enjoys reading, traveling, and the beach.

Denise Kennedy is a Senior Registered Client Service Associate with Morgan Stanley Wealth Management, bringing nearly four decades of experience in the financial services industry. Her extensive career includes 32 years at Merrill Lynch Wealth Management, where she developed a deep commitment to delivering exceptional client service and building lasting relationships grounded in trust and professionalism.

Denise holds FINRA Series 7 and Series 63 registrations, reflecting her dedication to maintaining the highest standards of knowledge and compliance in serving her clients.

Outside of her professional life, Denise cherishes time with her husband, five children and six grandchildren. She enjoys traveling and camping throughout Florida and the Southeastern United States, embracing every opportunity to explore the region with the people she loves most.

Laura O'Donnell is A Senior Registered Client Service Associate with Morgan Stanley Wealth Management, bringing over four decades of experience in the financial services industry. She began her career with Merrill Lynch Wealth Management in 1981, where she held a number of progressive roles including serving as a financial advisor before transitioning into her current position.

Laura holds FINRA Series 7 and Series 63 registrations, underscoring her deep technical knowledge and commitment to professional excellence. Throughout her career, she has taken great pride in delivering consistent, high-quality service that meets and exceeds the expectations of the clients she serves. Her extensive background and client-first approach make her an invaluable resource to both her team and the individuals and families who entrust her with their financial needs.

Iliana is a Registered Client Service Associate at Morgan Stanley, bringing more than 11 years of experience supporting clients and financial advisors at leading wealth management firms. She has previously held roles with Merrill Lynch and UBS, where she developed deep experience delivering exceptional client service, fostering long-term relationships, and ensuring the highest level of professionalism.

Detail-oriented and client-focused, Iliana is recognized for her ability to anticipate client needs, provide seamless service, and contribute to sales growth and team success. With strong interpersonal and communication skills, she's committed to upholding the firm's values while helping clients navigate their financial goals with confidence.

Outside of work, Iliana enjoys spending time with friends and family, travelling, cooking, dining out and making the most of Florida's beaches and outdoors.

Noelle Nixon is a Registered Client Service Associate with Morgan Stanley Wealth Management. A recent graduate of Florida Atlantic University, Noelle holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in Hospitality Management - a background that reflects her natural commitment to delivering exceptional client experiences.

Noelle holds FINRA Series 7 and Series 66 registrations and plays an integral role in supporting the team's day-to-day operations. She is dedicated to providing seamless administrative support and personalized service, ensuring clients receive the attentive care and timely communications they deserve.

Originally from Melbourne, Florida, Noelle currently calls Delray Beach home. Outside of the office, she enjoys spending quality time with friends and family and staying active on the tennis court.

Connie Murray is a Client Service Associate with Morgan Stanley Wealth Management, where she plays a vital role in marketing and business development for the team. She brings a strong foundation in financial services, having previously served as a Financial Advisor for EF Hutton, an experience that gives her a well-rounded perspective on client needs and the wealth management landscape. Connie studied at Missouri State University before embarking on her career in financial services.

Outside of her professional life, Connie is deeply committed to her community. She has been an active participant on local homeowners and master association boards and currently serves on the board of the Boca Pointe Chapter of The Pap Corps, an organization dedicated to raising funds for cancer research. She is also an enthusiastic supporter of various charitable causes.

Connie resides in Boca Raton with her husband, Michael. When she's not at work or giving back to her community, she enjoys traveling and staying active on the pickleball court.

Joshua Davila is a Registered Client Service Associate where he combines his passion for numbers with a strong commitment to delivering an exceptional client experience. He holds his Series 7 and Series 66 FINRA licenses and provides responsive, detail-oriented support to both clients and financial advisors.

Fluent in English and Portuguese and proficient in Spanish, Joshua connects effectively with clients from diverse backgrounds. Outside of work, he enjoys physical activities such as weightlifting and pickleball.