Our Story and Services

At the Cook and Robles Group, retirement planning means more than providing our clients with investment advice. It means helping them maintain the financial independence they've worked their whole lives to achieve. It means striving to help ensure they have the means to pursue what's most important to them. And it means understanding them as people with unique goals, values and circumstances that determine the strategies we develop on their behalf.

Our consultative process begins with an in-depth discussion of your current finances and future objectives. We'll address issues you might have overlooked that can have a significant impact on your ability to retire as planned. Finally, we'll determine how we can help you adjust your investment strategy as necessary to accommodate changing conditions and meet unforeseen expenses and income demands that may arise during retirement.

Our Clients Include:
  • Families spanning multiple generations
  • Retirees and individuals planning for retirement
  • Employees of local utility and power companies
  • Professionals in the legal, medical, and pharmaceutical industries
  • Nonprofit organizations, endowments, and foundations
  • Referrals from existing clients
Services Include
Check the background of Our Firm and Investment Professionals on FINRA's BrokerCheck.*

SOUND INVESTING PRINCIPLES VS. HUMAN NATURE

Have you heard the expression “buy low, sell high”? It applies to just about any investment, and savvy investors always look for opportunities where something seems to be selling for less than it’s worth. So then why do investors sell off their investments when the market drops? Isn’t that the perfect time to BUY, when prices are depressed (i.e., “buy low”)? Doesn’t it make more sense to either hold on to an investment during a market correction, or even buy stocks during a bull market?

It makes logical sense, and yet even sophisticated investors rush to dump their stocks when the market goes down (i.e. “sell high”). Why?

Because they are acting on emotion rather than logic. They fear that the market will continue to drop and don’t want to lose any more – even though they know that long-term, they should ignore the standard ups and downs of the market and stay the course.

In fact, while people are supposed to act in their own self-interest and make logical decisions, human beings are much more inclined to act emotionally when it comes to money – that’s the core principle behind a school of thought called Behavioral Investing.

At the Cook and Robles Group, we have have studied the phenomenon of Behavioral Investing and applied it to our wealth management practice. One of the most important things we do for our clients is to provide a logical, systematic response to changing conditions – I provide a guiding hand during the regular market volatility that is almost certain to occur during any long-range investment cycle.

Emotions are part of being human, and we all respond to them. However, we work with our clients to be sure that they don’t make investment decisions, or any other financial choice, based on emotions rather than logic.

Morgan Stanley At Work

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Utilizing the powerful Morgan Stanley at Work platform, we at The Cook and Robles Group are able to help build financial confidence through insightful advice, thoughtful education and cutting-edge technology across a suite of modern workplace solutions.

At Work Solutions

Innovative workplace offerings for companies and employees which include Shareworks by Morgan Stanley, our global equity plan management solution, Financial Wellness and Retirement solutions.

Learn more about our work solutions
Corporate Retirement Solutions

Comprehensive solutions to effectively maximize and customize retirement benefits, so managers can help employees make the most out of retirement.

Learn more about our corporate retirement solutions
Financial Wellness

At The Cook and Robles Group we understand that when employees thrive, companies thrive. We are proud to offer a customizable solution for organizations to empower their employees by making their finances a source of wellness – and not a source of stress.

Learn more about financial wellness solutions
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    Things We Can Help With:

    FINANCIAL PLANNING: Goals Analysis, Retirement Income, Debt Analysis, Special Circumstances

    INVESTMENT PLANNING: Security Recommendations, Economics, Asset Allocation, Tax Efficient Investing

    WEALTH PLANNING: Wills & Legal Documents, Legacy Planning/Gifting, Family Governance, Charitable Planning

    EXECUTIVE PLANNING: Incentive Compensation, Stock Options, Concentrated Positions, Stock Monetization

    BUSINESS OWNER PLANNING: Risk Management, Cash Management, Retirement Benefits, Succession Planning

    EMPLOYER RETIREMENT PLANS: Investment Management & Monitoring, Participant Financial Education, Participation Focus, Plan Design & Implementation, Evaluate & Recommend Record Keeper/Provider, Plan Fiduciary Responsibilities

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    Our Tailored Process

    Step 1 -> Discovery Process: We listen, learn, and identify what is important to you and your legacy

    Step 2 -> Develop Strategies: We determine risk and gather data to analyze current investments and create a financial plan

    Step 3 -> Onboarding Meeting: We present and discuss the plan

    Step 4 -> Deployment of Solutions: Focus on asset movement and assign responsibilities

    Step 5 -> Orientation Meeting: Meet and understand the team and "who to contact"

    Step 5 -> Wealth Team Integration: Develop and understand your network, liquidity needs, and
    secondary plans

    Step 6 -> Strategy/Tactical Meetings: Monitor, discuss, and adjust future transitions

Client Tools and Resources

At the Cook and Robles Group, we believe access to financial education leads to better insights into our investment strategy and goals, and ultimately better long-term decisions.

Morgan Stanley's comprehensive suite of digital resources has carefully been designed to help enhance each aspect of your financial portfolio. Take some time to learn about some of the many Modern Wealth Management resources that we offer to our clients.
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    Tax-Smart Strategies for Retirement
    Looking for ideas on how to be more tax efficient when planning for your retirement? Smart tax planning can help you save more for retirement and keep more of what you’ve already saved.
    Read the Strategies Here
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    Online Security Center
    Safeguarding your assets and personal information is paramount to us. Learn about our extensive security measures and take advantage of our numerous resources and ideas that are geared towards helping you stay protected on the World Wide Web.
    Access the Online Security Center
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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! Access your finances and invest in an instant with the help of this handy resource that is available 24/7.
    Register or Log In
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    Cryptocurrency Scams
    Fraudsters are unleashing scams to take advantage of the popularity of digital currency. Learn how to detect cryptocurrency scams and help protect your assets.
    Learn How to Protect Your Assets

Location

1020 10th Street
2nd Floor
Modesto, CA 95354
US
Direct:
(209) 526-3700(209) 526-3700
Toll-Free:
(800) 752-3215(800) 752-3215

Meet The Cook and Robles Group

About Montgomery C Cook

Montgomery Cook, also known as "Monty," is a highly experienced Senior Vice President, Senior Portfolio Manager, Financial Planning Specialist, and Financial Advisor. Monty's journey into the industry began early on, inspired by his father's work as a financial advisor. This initial spark led him to join EF Hutton as an intern, igniting a lifelong passion for guiding individuals and families toward their financial goals. After graduating from the State University of Long Beach in 1985, he accepted a position at EF Hutton and years later, has remained with Morgan Stanley. With now over three decades of experience, Monty continues to provide comprehensive financial planning services, aiding clients in navigating their working years, retirement, and estate planning needs. Above all, he enjoys the personal aspect of the business and hearing family stories so that can truly understand what is the most important to each one of his clients. Monty also firmly believe "there are no stupid questions", fostering an open and supportive environment for his clients.

Beyond his professional achievements, Monty finds immense joy in his family life, with his wife Kathy and their beloved dog Ruby, along with their daughter Chloe who lives nearby. An Eagle Scout, Monty carries the values of preparedness, leadership, and service into his daily life. In his leisure time, he relishes moments with his family, indulging in activities like beach walks, exploring local farmers' markets, scenic drives along the coast, leisurely bicycle rides with Kathy, and occasional rounds of golf. Monty's holistic approach to life and financial advising is a testament to his dedication to both his clients and his loved ones.
Securities Agent: AZ, NM, MI, AK, WA, NY, MA, ID, AL, SC, MT, FL, CT, CA, AR, UT, NC, MD, WY, SD, TN, MN, IN, DE, NJ, MO, GA, VA, PA, OR, OH, NV, TX, CO; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative; Transactional Futures/Commodities; Managed Futures
NMLS#: 1282895
CA Insurance License #: 0A38359

About Glenda A Robles

Glenda Robles is a seasoned Senior VP, Senior Portfolio Manager, Financial Planning Specialist, and Financial Advisor with a career spanning over three decades. Beginning her journey in the finance industry in December 1985, she started at EF Hutton and has remained dedicated to the same company through mergers and takeovers, a testament to her unwavering commitment. Glenda is a member of the firms Women’s Business Alliance and has attended Morgan Stanley’s Institute Conventions, a prestige program for Wealth Managers who have demonstrated excellence in Client Relationship Management.

Glenda's life took an unexpected turn when she became a widow after 35 years of marriage. This experience transformed her into a compassionate advocate for widows and widowers, guiding them through the complexities of investments and providing emotional support to help them move forward with confidence. Glenda's clients place their trust in her because she genuinely listens to their concerns, conducts face-to-face investment reviews, and collaborates with them to make informed decisions.

Beyond her professional life, Glenda's heart belongs to her family, including her two sons, Christopher and Bryan, their wives, and four beloved grandchildren. She is an avid animal lover who finds solace in watching sunsets and shares her zest for life through her extensive travels. Glenda Robles brings not only a wealth of financial knowledge but also a genuine dedication to building meaningful client relationships and helping individuals and families secure their financial futures.
Securities Agent: AZ, MT, WY, CT, AL, TX, SC, MO, IN, CA, PA, FL, MI, OH, AR, NM, NJ, MN, AK, WA, TN, SD, NV, MD, VA, OR, NC, UT, ID, NY, MA, GA, CO; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative
NMLS#: 1288332
CA Insurance License #: 0E83256

About Juan Acosta

Juan Acosta is a seasoned Financial Advisor with over a decade of experience in both investment and banking sectors. His journey in the financial industry began in 2011 as a Teller at Bank of America. In August 2019, he transitioned to Morgan Stanley as a Wealth Advisor Associate, focusing on financial planning. In January 2021, he found his home at The Cook and Robles Group, His decision to become a Financial Advisor was driven by a desire to provide financial services in a family-oriented manner, particularly within the underserved Latino community. Growing up as the son of immigrant farm workers, Juan's strong work ethic and financial acumen were shaped by early life experiences. He takes pride in educating and collaborating with business owners to navigate the ever-evolving financial landscape. What truly distinguishes Juan from his competitors is his unwavering dedication to his clients. He prioritizes their best interests above all else, striving to be seen as an extension of their families—someone who can be trusted. Juan's trademark is his commitment to putting the "Family" in Family Wealth, ensuring his clients know they can rely on him for guidance and understanding as they pursue their unique financial goals. Fluent in both English and Spanish, Juan is passionate about imparting financial literacy to individuals from all walks of life.

Born and raised in California's Central Valley, Juan has deep roots in his community and a strong commitment to assisting its members. In addition to his finance career, he served as an Infantryman in the California National Guard, where he underwent rigorous physical and mental training to conquer various challenges. When he's not at the gym, Juan enjoys spending quality time with his fiancé Caylin and their children, Oliver and Hazel.
Securities Agent: MA, VA, PA, NV, FL, WA, OH, AK, ID, CT, NY, NC, MD, IN, MT, MO, GA, CA, TX, CO, OR, AZ, AR, TN, MN, UT, SC, WY, NM, MI; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative
NMLS#: 1357201

About LeeAnn Bridges

LeeAnn is a Senior Client Service Associate and has been with Morgan Stanley, and its’ predecessor firm, since February of 1999. She brings a solid combination of top-notch service skills and technical knowledge to The Cook and Robles Group. LeeAnn lives in Hughson with her husband, Joe, who was her high school sweetheart and their teenage daughter Averi, who is the light of her life.
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.
Ready to start a conversation? Contact The Cook and Robles Group today.
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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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2Investors should consider many factors before deciding which 529 plan is appropriate. Some of these factors include: the Plan’s investment options and the historical investment performance of these options, the Plan’s flexibility and features, the reputation and expertise of the Plan’s investment manager, Plan contribution limits and the federal and state tax benefits associated with an investment in the Plan. Some states, for example, offer favorable tax treatment and other benefits to their residents only if they invest in the state’s own Qualified Tuition Program. Investors should determine their home state’s tax treatment of 529 plans when considering whether to choose an in-state or out-of-state plan. Investors should consult with their tax or legal advisor before investing in any 529 Plan or contact their state tax division for more information. Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC does not provide tax and/or legal advice. Investors should review a Program Disclosure Statement, which contains more information on investment options, risk factors, fees and expenses and possible tax consequences.

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3Annuities are offered in conjunction with Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC’s licensed insurance agency affiliates.

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4Morgan 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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5Investors should consider many factors before deciding which 529 plan is appropriate. Some of these factors include: the Plan’s investment options and the historical investment performance of these options, the Plan’s flexibility and features, the reputation and expertise of the Plan’s investment manager, Plan contribution limits and the federal and state tax benefits associated with an investment in the Plan. Some states, for example, offer favorable tax treatment and other benefits to their residents only if they invest in the state’s own Qualified Tuition Program. Investors should determine their home state’s tax treatment of 529 plans when considering whether to choose an in-state or out-of-state plan. Investors should consult with their tax or legal advisor before investing in any 529 Plan or contact their state tax division for more information. Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC does not provide tax and/or legal advice. Investors should review a Program Disclosure Statement, which contains more information on investment options, risk factors, fees and expenses and possible tax consequences.

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6Fixed Income investing entails credit risks and interest rate risks. When interest rates rise, bond prices generally fall.

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7When 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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8An investment in an exchange-traded fund (ETF) involves risks similar to those of investing in a broadly based portfolio of equity securities traded on exchange in the relevant securities market, such as market fluctuations caused by such factors as economic and political developments, changes in interest rates and perceived trends in stock prices. The investment return and principal value of ETF investments will fluctuate, so that an investor’s ETF shares, if or when sold, may be worth more or less than the original cost.

Investors should carefully consider the investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses of an exchange-traded fund (ETF) before investing. The prospectus contains this and other information about the ETF. To obtain a prospectus, contact your Financial Advisor or visit the ETF company’s website. Please read the prospectus carefully before investing.

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9Fixed Income investing entails credit risks and interest rate risks. When interest rates rise, bond prices generally fall.

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10Municipal bonds may not be appropriate for all investors. Income generated from an investment in a municipal bond is generally exempt from federal income taxes. Some income may be subject to state and local taxes and to the federal alternative minimum tax. Capital gains, if any, are subject to tax.
Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (“Morgan Stanley”) and its Financial Advisors and Private Wealth Advisors do not provide any tax/legal advice. Consult your own tax/legal advisor before making any tax or legal-related investment decisions.

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11When 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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12Morgan Stanley’s investment advisory programs may require a minimum asset level and, depending on your specific investment objectives and financial position, may not be appropriate for you. Please see the Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC program disclosure brochure (the “Morgan Stanley ADV”) for more information in the investment advisory programs available. The Morgan Stanley ADV is available at www.morganstanley.com/ADV.

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13When 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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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)