Our Story and Services

Your hard-earned wealth comes with both opportunity and responsibility. Our goal is to help simplify the management of your finances so you can more fully appreciate the richness of all dimensions of your life — from personal and professional achievements to extraordinary experiences and relationships.

The Cypress Group operates as a boutique, family office-style practice with team members in both San Francisco and Newport Beach. Our clients are affluent families up and down the Pacific Coast who have built and led successful enterprises and created personal wealth in the process. Our role on their team is to create, coordinate, implement and maintain highly customized strategies to protect their assets, support their lifestyle and leave enduring legacies.

Our highly decorated and diverse team consists of 6 partners and 3 analysts and includes two advisors who hold Morgan Stanley's coveted Family Wealth Director designation, a distinction held by less than 4% of advisors at Morgan Stanley. We combine our individual talents and perspectives into a cohesive practice that consistently provides a world class, white glove experience. Drawing upon our own unique experiences and the vast global resources of Morgan Stanley, we deliver comprehensive wealth management capabilities and dedicate ourselves to helping our clients make more enriching decisions.

  • We focus exclusively on providing the highest level of personalized concierge service to a small number of families with significant financial resources and complexities.
  • We follow a disciplined investment approach, establishing a core portfolio based on time-tested solutions for wealth preservation and accumulation. We believe this traditional foundation is essential for a carefully constructed portfolio. Our strategy is to manage customized portfolios grounded in conservative investments, while offering access to the market's latest growth opportunities.
  • For over 30 years, we have helped successful entrepreneurs and executives create tax-efficient strategies for managing concentrated equity positions and low basis securities, transition family businesses and transfer wealth to younger generations.
Services Include
Check the background of Our Firm and Investment Professionals on FINRA's BrokerCheckLink Opens in New Tab.*

For Corporate Executives

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As a corporate insider with concentrated stock, you may be wondering about tax-efficient approaches to diversification. You may also be facing cash flow needs for real estate transactions, large purchases or tax payments, sometimes before stock liquidity is available due to lock-ups or tight trading windows.

At The Cypress Group, we have developed a comprehensive wealth management process tailored to busy executives. This process guides you through the complexities associated with pre- and post-IPO concentrated stock, taking into account tax optimization and immediate liquidity needs to construct a long-term strategy for diversification.
Exchange Funds
Exchange funds provide diversification without triggering the taxable gains typically associated with diversification, as the exchange occurs within an IRS-approved tax-deferred investment vehicle. These funds are managed by portfolio managers who construct a portfolio such that each contributor of concentrated stock will ultimately receive a pro-rata allocation of the portfolio while retaining their original basis.
Learn More
Donor Advised Funds
Gifting appreciated long-term gain stock to a donor advised fund may be an option for offsetting income tax in years when there is a liquidity event from IPO/acquisition, options exercise, stock vests or bonus income. This allows tax deduction in the current tax year, with the flexibility to gift to end charities over time.
Learn more
Portfolio Line of Credit
To meet liquidity needs without triggering sales of concentrated stock, corporate executives may be able to borrow against the stock in a portfolio line to manage more immediate cash flow requirements. No underwriting is required, and there is no cost to setting up the portfolio line or keeping it open. Borrowing against the portfolio occurs as needed, with interest paid at a floating interest rate and no penalty at repayment.
10b5-1 Plans
10b5-1 plans are preset diversification plans for executives who want the flexibility to sell through open and closed windows, whether at market or specified limit prices. These plans are written trading plans approved by legal counsel and executed by a third party, which provides corporate executives an affirmative defense against claims of insider trading.
Qualified Small Business Stock (QSBS)
Corporate executives may be able to exclude from income 100% of any gain from the sale or exchange of qualified small business stock (QSBS) acquired after September 28, 2010 and held for more than five years. The maximum amount of gain excluded is generally limited to $10 million or 10 times the cost of the stock. To qualify as QSBS, the company must be structured as a US C corporation and the stock must have been acquired at original issue and when the total gross assets of the company were less than $50 million.
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Investing with Impact
Many of us want our portfolios to align with our values and make a positive impact on the world. Impact investing refers to investments made into companies, organizations and funds with the intention of generating a measurable and beneficial social or environmental impact alongside a financial return. In other words, investing with impact seeks to align financial goals that are driven by economic fundamentals with impact goals that are driven by personal values and mission.
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Let's talk about how we can partner with you on your overall strategy
Contact Us to schedule a brief introductory call
Additional Resources

For Business Owners

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You’ve put your heart and soul into your business, with an intense focus on profitability and providing for the ones you love. With all that you’ve invested, you want to know that when the time comes to transition your business – whether it’s to a family member, key employee, or outside strategic – you can maximize the value of your company.

Planning for business succession or transition is a complex, technical endeavor. You are faced with difficult questions:
• How much is my business really worth?
• What factors dictate my company’s valuation?
• Who will carry on my vision?
• Do I want to maintain some control?
• Will the proceeds from the sale of my business be enough to support the lifestyle and retirement I envision? If not, how do I make up the shortfall?
• What tax and estate planning issues do I need to be thinking about?
To optimize the value of your business and the likelihood of long-term financial security, it is critical to begin planning long before the anticipated transition.

At The Cypress Group, we focus on helping owners of closely-held, private businesses make informed decisions about their financial futures. With our firsthand experience in navigating the complexities of a family business, we understand how challenging it can be to balance professional and personal priorities. We know the right questions to ask and we have the experience, network, and resources to help you plan for both your liquidity event and the chapters of your life that follow.
*To start exploring your options, contact us
Additional Resources

For Equity Compensation

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Your equity awards are recognition of your hard work and can play an important role in enabling you to achieve your most important goals. At The Cypress Group, we help cut through the complexities and nuances of equity compensation and provide the perspective you need to make more informed decisions.
Types of Equity Compensation
The most common types of equity compensation are stock options and restricted stock units (RSUs). The two types of stock options-incentive stock options (ISOs) and non-quality stock options (NQSOs) - differ in their tax treatment. Employee Stock Purchase Programs (ESPP's) are also prevalent.
Learn more about types of company equity
Equity Compensation and Taxes
The type of equity compensation you are offered will impact the timing and type of taxation you will be subject to, so having an effective tax management strategy may be critical for securing your financial future
Learn more about taxes on equity compensation
Options for Investing Equity Compensation
The Cypress Group can help you explore and understand the range of modern solutions that can help you make the most of your equity compensation and overall finances. Our partners are Dedicated Equity Plan Specialists, an internal Morgan Stanley designation given to advisors who can help answer any questions you may have about your company stock compensation.
Learn more about working with a Financial Advisor
It all begins with a conversation
To get started, contact us
Additional Resources
What are stock options?
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What is an RSU?
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What is an ESPP?
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How are RSUs taxed?
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    Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams - Forbes 2025

    The Cypress Group was recognized as one of the Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams by Forbes for 2025.

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    Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams - Forbes 2024

    The Cypress Group was recognized as one of the Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams by Forbes for 2024.

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    Best-In-State Wealth Advisors - Forbes 2024

    John Lin and Scott Caston were recognized as Best-In-State Wealth Advisors by Forbes for 2024.

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    Top Next-Gen Wealth Advisors Best-In-State - Forbes 2024

    Marco Salerno was recognized as one of the Top Next-Gen Wealth Advisors Best-In-State by Forbes for 2024.

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    Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams - Forbes 2023

    The Cypress Group was recognized as one of the Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams by Forbes for 2023.

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    Best-In-State Wealth Advisors - Forbes 2023

    John Lin and Scott Caston were recognized as Best-In-State Wealth Advisors by Forbes for 2023.

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    Top Next-Gen Wealth Advisors Best-In-State - Forbes 2023

    Marco Salerno was recognized as one of the Top Next-Gen Wealth Advisors Best-In-State by Forbes for 2023.

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    Best-In-State Wealth Advisors - Forbes 2022

    John Lin and Scott Caston were recognized as Best-In-State Wealth Advisors by Forbes for 2022.

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    Top Next-Gen Wealth Advisors Best-In-State - Forbes 2022

    Marco Salerno was recognized as one of the Top Next-Gen Wealth Advisors Best-In-State by Forbes for 2022.

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    Best-In-State Wealth Advisors - Forbes 2021

    John Lin and Scott Caston were recognized as Best-In-State Wealth Advisors by Forbes for 2021.

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    America's Top Next-Gen Wealth Advisors - Forbes 2017 to 2020

    Scott Caston was recognized as one of America's Top Next-Gen Wealth Advisors by Forbes from 2017 through 2020.

    Award Disclosures
    • 2023, 2024, & 2025 Forbes Best-In- State Wealth Management Teams Source: Forbes.com (2023, 2024, 2025) Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams ranking awarded in 2023, 2024, 2025. Each ranking was based on an evaluation process conducted by SHOOK Research LLC (the research company) in partnership with Forbes (the publisher). This evaluation process concluded in March of the previous year the award was issued, having commenced in March of the year before that. Neither Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC nor its Financial Advisors or Private Wealth Advisors paid a fee to SHOOK Research LLC, for placement on its rankings.
    • 2021-2024 Forbes Best-In- State Wealth Advisors Source: Forbes.com ( 2021-2024). Forbes Best-In- State Wealth Advisors ranking awarded in 2021-2024. Each ranking was based on an evaluation process conducted by SHOOK Research LLC (the research company) in partnership with Forbes (the publisher). This evaluation process concluded in June of the previous year the award was issued having commenced in June of the year before that. Neither Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC nor its Financial Advisors or Private Wealth Advisors paid a fee to SHOOK Research LLC to obtain or use the ranking.
    • 2017-2024 Forbes America's Top Next-Gen Wealth Advisors & Top Next-Gen Wealth Advisors Best-in-State (formerly referred to as Forbes America's Top Next-Gen Wealth Advisors, Forbes Top 1,000 Next-Gen Wealth Advisors, Forbes Top 500 Next Generation Wealth Advisors)
      Source: Forbes.com (2017-2024). Forbes America's Top Next-Gen Wealth Advisors & Top Next-Gen Wealth Advisors Best-In-State ranking awarded in 2017-2024. Each ranking was based on an evaluation process conducted by SHOOK Research LLC (the research company) in partnership with Forbes (the publisher). This evaluation process concluded in March of the year the award was issued having commenced in March of the previous year. Neither Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC nor its Financial Advisors or Private Wealth Advisors paid a fee to SHOOK Research LLC to obtain or use the ratings

Location

555 California St
35th Floor
San Francisco, CA 94104
US
Direct:
(415) 984-6005(415) 984-6005
800 Newport Center Dr
Ste 500
Newport Beach, CA 92660
US
Direct:
(949) 717-5300(949) 717-5300

Meet The Cypress Group

About John Lin

Recently named to the prestigious Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors list (2021-2024)*, John guides the vision and strategy of The Cypress Group at Morgan Stanley. He works closely with the owners of closely-held, family-owned companies, helping them prepare for and implement transition or succession plans. Well-versed in the myriad technical aspects of planning, John holds numerous advanced credentials and certifications:

• CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ designation, the standard of excellence in financial planning
• Certified Private Wealth Advisor®, a certification that reflects his ability to apply the latest tax and estate planning strategies to address the complex needs of successful individuals and families
• Certified Exit Planning Advisor®, a highly-regarded designation signifying his ability to help business owners optimize the value of their companies and coordinate the mechanisms in business transitions

John also holds Morgan Stanley’s Family Wealth Director designation, which demonstrates his experience with the unique, often complex, needs of wealthy families. He has also been recognized as a Presidents Club (2022 - 2024) and Masters Club member (2015-2021), an honor reserved for the firm’s top Financial Advisors.

Since joining Morgan Stanley, he has successfully navigated The Cypress Group through the retirement of two business partners and is currently in the process of a third retirement transition. Previously, John worked in his family’s privately-owned real estate sales business. He earned his BA in International Business with a minor in Business Law from Cal Poly.

Born in Taiwan, John is conversational in Taiwanese and Mandarin. He lives in San Francisco with his wife, Julie, and their two daughters. He enjoys exploring the Bay Area food scene, reading history, and staying current on the markets.

*2021-2024 Forbes Best-In- State Wealth Advisors
Source: Forbes.com (Awarded 2021-2024). Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based 12-month time period concluding in June of year prior to the issuance of the award.
Securities Agent: DE, DC, RI, NE, MO, HI, SC, IN, SD, PR, NY, NC, MA, GA, WA, UT, PA, MN, ID, FL, CA, MT, MD, LA, AL, OH, NJ, IL, VA, NV, TN, OR, CT, CO, AZ, VT, TX, OK, NM, MI; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative; Managed Futures
NMLS#: 1255397
CA Insurance License #: 0D85958

About Scott Caston

Scott Caston is an Executive Director and Financial Advisor within Morgan Stanley’s Wealth Management division.

Scott joined Morgan Stanley in 2005 and has dedicated his entire career to serving the sophisticated financial planning and investment management needs of corporate executives and business owners in the Bay Area and Southern California.

He and his team have garnered recognition from Forbes as one of the top wealth management practices in California. Recent accolades include:

• Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Management Team (2023-2025)
• Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors (2021-2024)
• Forbes America's Top Next-Gen Wealth Advisors (2017-2020)

Scott attained the prestigious Certified Private Wealth Advisor® (CPWA®) designation from Yale School of Management and Investments & Wealth Institute™, and is a Family Wealth Director, an advanced designation achieved by less than five percent of the advisors at Morgan Stanley. Scott is also a Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP®) and holds a B.A. in Finance from California State University, Fullerton - College of Business and Economics.

Outside of work, you will find Scott with his family - his wife, Lauren, and their two active sons!



Awards Disclosures: https://www.morganstanley.com/disclosures/awards-disclosure.html
* 2023-2025 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams
Source: Forbes.com (Awarded 2023-2024). Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on 12-month time period concluding in March of year prior to the issuance of the award.
*2021-2024 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors
Source: Forbes.com (Awarded 2021-2024). Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based 12-month time period concluding in June of year prior to the issuance of the award.
*2017-2020 Forbes America’s Top Next-Gen Wealth Advisors & Top Next-Gen Wealth Advisors Best-in-State (formerly referred to as Forbes America's Top Next-Gen Wealth Advisors, Forbes Top 1,000 Next-Gen Wealth Advisors, Forbes Top 500 Next Generation Wealth Advisors)
Source: Forbes.com (Awarded 2017-2020). Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on 12-month period concluding in Mar of the year the award was issued.
Securities Agent: MI, SC, CO, WI, AZ, VT, RI, IL, OH, ID, GA, TX, OK, NV, MT, CT, PA, NY, NJ, NE, FL, VA, MN, MA, CA, MD, LA, HI, DE, SD, NC, KS, IN, AL, WA, OR, NM, ME, KY, UT, TN; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative
NMLS#: 1290463
CA Insurance License #: 0G49645

About Marco Salerno

Marco is a Senior Vice President and Executive Financial Services Director with Morgan Stanley in San Francisco, CA and is ranked by Forbes as one of the nation’s Best-In-State Wealth Advisors.

Prior to joining Morgan Stanley in 2012, Marco proudly served five years active duty overseas in the United States Navy where he acquired a true appreciation for the value of working as a team and having an exceptionally high attention to detail. Those lessons continue to be practiced and have carried over into his role on the team. Working predominately with affluent senior executives and serial entrepreneurs, his primary focus is providing a high-touch, custom approach to comprehensive wealth management.

Marco earned the designation of Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP®), a designation awarded by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards. He later earned the Certified Private Wealth Advisor® (CPWA®) designation from Investments & Wealth Institute™ and Yale School of Management. He also received a B.A. in Finance from San Francisco State University – College of Business.

Keeping in line with the military’s core value of selfless service, Marco donates much of his time across a variety of non-profits, most notably American Corporate Partners and The Guardsmen. Marco lives in Burlingame with his wife, Elena, and their son & daughter.

​Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors
Source: Forbes.com (Awarded 2022-2023) Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on time period from 6/30/21 - 6/30/22
Securities Agent: CT, AL, CA, HI, WI, NE, MI, VT, TX, SD, PA, NY, NJ, FL, WA, SC, OH, NM, CO, UT, RI, MD, LA, IN, AZ, TN, MN, MA, VA, OR, NC, ID, GA, DE, NV, MT, IL; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative
NMLS#: 1265337
CA Insurance License #: 0J18745

About Paul Ireland

Paul is a Vice President, Wealth Advisor, and Alternative Investments Director at Morgan Stanley. Prior to joining Morgan Stanley in January, 2012 he was a Private Wealth Advisor with Merrill Lynch’s Private Banking and Investment Group for over 10 years, and before that was with Thomas Weisel Partners’ Private Client Group.

With over 30 years in the financial services industry, Paul works with high-net-worth families to develop and manage customized, multi-generational wealth management plans. Areas of focus include asset allocation and financial planning analysis, selection and ongoing due diligence of money managers and funds, performance measurement and estate planning. Paul holds the designation of Alternative Investments Director, a specialists title given to an elite group of highly trained and experienced advisors with an expertise in private equity, private credit and hedge funds.

Before getting into the financial services industry, Paul was a CPA with KPMG.

Paul is a graduate of University of South Carolina in Columbia, SC and maintains his Series 7, 31, 63 and 65 Securities Licenses.

Originally from the East Coast, Paul has called the Bay Area home for more than 2 decades. He and his wife Elizabeth have three adult children and live in San Anselmo, California. Outside of work, Paul enjoys golf, cycling and spending time with his new grandson.
Securities Agent: NM, HI, FL, CO, SC, NY, MT, MA, GA, OR, MD, DE, SD, PR, PA, LA, VT, TX, RI, NJ, IL, DC, WA, NE, MN, AL, UT, OH, CT, WI, NC, AZ, NV, MI, IN, ID, CA, VA; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative; Managed Futures
NMLS#: 557602

About Michal Grommunt

As a Financial Advisor, Michal enjoys solving complex wealth management issues and helping clients navigate life transitions that may impact their financial footing. He is committed to serving as a go-to resource for clients by educating them and their next generation to boost financial literacy and providing them with the necessary knowledge to confidently make informed financial decisions. His clients are primarily corporate executives and owners of closely-held, family-owned businesses, each with a unique story, priorities, and vision for the future.

Michal holds a Financial Planning Specialist designation and volunteers on the Diversity and Inclusion Council at Morgan Stanley. He joined the Cypress Group in 2019. Since joining the team, he has had myriad opportunities to work closely with the business owners we serve, gaining valuable insight into how their businesses work and what challenges they face in balancing their business plans with their personal goals and aspirations.

Michal has always been fascinated with the markets and the dynamics of money. He feels privileged to be able to use his diverse background and knowledge to help clients translate their wealth into opportunities to enhance not only their own lives, but also the lives of those around them and in the community. Having previously founded and/or operated several small businesses, he also has firsthand experience with business ownership.

Born in Poland, Michal moved to the US on his own at age 18 to pursue the American Dream. Instilled with a sense of discipline and diligence since childhood, he was the Polish champion in the martial art of wushu. Outside of work, he is passionate about alternative energy, home automation, cars and motorcycles and finds joy in keeping up with modern trends in music, electronics, and efficiency solutions.
Securities Agent: PR, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VI, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY, NV, NM, NJ, RI, NH, NE, ND, NC, MT, MS, MO, MN, MI, ME, MD, MA, LA, KY, KS, IN, IL, ID, IA, HI, GA, FL, DE, DC, CT, CO, CA, AZ, AR, AL, AK, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative
NMLS#: 2432106
CA Insurance License #: 4269197

About Tobias Leonardos

Tobias is a Financial Advisor with Morgan Stanley in San Francisco, CA. His team is currently ranked by Forbes as one of the nation’s Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams for California*. In this role, in addition to daily client coverage, he leads all cross-functional projects for the team's financial planning services.

His advice centers on comprehensive financial planning, investment management, and access to lending. Utilizing Morgan Stanley’s extensive research, premier trading platform, and full spectrum of investment choices, Tobias creates tailored strategies to help his clients achieve their complex and unique financial goals.

Prior to joining Morgan Stanley in 2020, Tobias worked at Mutual of Omaha as an Advisor. Tobias holds the Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP®) designation, completing his coursework through the University of California, Berkeley and awarded by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards. In addition, he has received his B.A. in Economics and Business Management from the University of Redlands where he was a collegiate athlete. Originally from Half Moon Bay, CA, Tobias resides in San Francisco and stays active on the weekends with volunteering and outdoor activities.

*2023 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams
Source: Forbes.com (Awarded 2023). Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based 12-month time period concluding in June of year prior to the issuance of the award.
Securities Agent: CA, CT, SC, PR, HI, AL, WA, SD, NV, IL, ID, GA, DC, CO, AZ, NY, NE, OR, OH, MN, MI, MA, LA, RI, MT, MD, FL, VT, TX, NJ, PA, NC, IN, DE, VA, UT, TN, NM, ME; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative
NMLS#: 2464701

About Lisa Zengel

My client relationships are based on trust and integrity. I derive enormous satisfaction from solving complex issues, whether they involve asset allocation, risk management, retirement planning, education planning, banking & lending issues, or stock option regulations. I have built a thriving financial advisory business and have been named to the prestigious Morgan Stanley Pacesetter’s Club every year since 2016.

I especially enjoy the personal aspects of my client relationships. I’ve discovered that we share many of the same passions and priorities. Like many of you, I love to travel. I’ve traveled to all seven continents and over 50 countries. My husband and I are committed to teaching our sons to enjoy nature, culture, and adventure through travel, hiking, and camping. Whether it is volunteering across Central and South America, cage diving with great white sharks in Africa, or taking the polar plunge in Antarctica, I value the importance of being challenged with unique and thoughtful experiences.

I am a graduate of Boston College with a BA in economics and an MBA in finance from the University of Southern California. Prior to joining Morgan Stanley, I worked in investment management and private equity. I moved to Morgan Stanley to combine my analytical skills with my desire to help individuals and families reach their financial goals, as well as develop lasting relationships.
CA Insurance License #: 0I58297

About Juan Gachet

As a Vice President, Financial Advisor, Senior Portfolio Manager, and Executive Financial Services Director. I believe that comprehensive planning is essential for helping individuals and families ensure that their hard work and legacy will be protected and wisely invested.

I joined Morgan Stanley in 2014, and in May of 2018 I received the Academic Excellence Award for outstanding contributions to the personal financial planning program at UC Berkeley extension for my academic work in the classroom, as well as my work within the San Francisco Bay Area Latino community.

Originally from Ecuador, and with my multilingual background in Spanish, I'm able to work with clients in a language that is most comfortable to them. While earning my bachelors of science degree in Economics from San Jose State University, I learned the value of hard work and responsibility and gained my first exposure to the world of finance.

I also serve as Executive Vice-President for the San Francisco Chapter of the Association of Latino Professionals For America (ALPFA), where I'm dedicated to building business relationships to help the next generation of Latino Professionals find their dream job and start their professional journey.

I live in Santa Rosa, CA with my wife Julia and son Leo. We enjoy camping, biking, and spending time with family and our friends.
Securities Agent: TX, GA, IL, RI, OR, HI, PA, NV, KY, ID, IA, NH, WA, VA, UT, OK, CT, AZ, NC, MA, AR, SC, OH, TN, NY, IN, ND, FL, CO, LA, CA, NJ; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative

About Keaton Covillo

Keaton has been with Morgan Stanley since 2015, both as part of The Cypress Group and in a leadership role as a Business Service Manager for the San Francisco/Hawaii Complex. He uses this unique combination of client-facing and administrative experience to deliver exceptional care and balanced advice to every client we serve. Prior to joining Morgan Stanley, Keaton lived in New York City, where he worked for some of the top banks in the nation.

Keaton holds a Master of Business Administration from the Quantic School of Business and Technology, a Master of Music from New York University, and a Bachelor of Music from the University of Denver, where he received a scholarship for opera. He lives in San Francisco with his partner, Amir, and their dog, Alvin.

About Nidhi Gupta

Nidhi joined The Cypress Group at Morgan Stanley in November of 2022 as a Client Service Associate where she handles daily operations and client service.

Prior to joining Morgan Stanly Nidhi built an extensive background working in the operations department of several global investment banks. She holds a Masters in Finance and a Chartered Financial Analyst from ICFAI Business School, India.

Nidhi recently returned to the Bay Area with her Husband, Varun and their 2 young children - Gianna and Yuvan. Outside of work Nidhi is a self-described “foodie” seeking out the amazing and diverse cuisines San Francisco has to offer. In addition she loves to travel and has keen interest in outdoor activities such as hiking, jogging, walking, cycling.

About Sophia Oh

Sophia is a Senior Registered Client Associate with extensive experience in the wealth management industry and a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted needs of clients. Her primary objective is to deliver exceptional service and help clients reach their financial goals.

Formerly a Director of Business Strategy at Morgan Stanley, she was responsible for the development, implementation, and management of a wealth management team’s overall business processes and client experience. Prior to this, she held a VP Senior Registered Associate position where she possessed the skills to lead the operations of a large, high performing team and manage its members. She graduated from California State University, Fullerton with an emphasis in public policy and holds the Series 7, 66, and insurance licenses.

Sophia and her husband Chris recently moved from San Diego to the OC for their daughter Chloe to attend the Orange County School of the Arts. She is thrilled to be back in her hometown and in her free time loves running, travelling, and watching live theater.

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 Wendy Fortenberry

Wendy Fortenberry is a Private Banker serving Morgan Stanley Wealth Management offices in San Francisco, California and Hawaii.

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.

Wendy began her career in financial services in 2001, and joined Morgan Stanley in 2015 as a Private Banker. Prior to joining the firm, she was a Wealth Management Banker at Merrill Lynch.

Wendy is a graduate of San Diego State University, where she received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics. She lives in the Bay Area. Outside of the office, Wendy enjoys attending professional baseball games & performing arts events as well as spending time with family and friends.
NMLS#: 637424

About Clint Eddy

Clint Eddy is an Executive Director with the Family Office Resources (FOR) team at Morgan Stanley. As a Generalist with FOR he helps clients and Advisors curate and navigate an expansive suite of highly specialized resources to address the complex, multifaceted challenges of managing significant wealth so clients may make complicated decisions confidently.

Prior to joining Morgan Stanley in 2022, Clint was a Wealth Strategist at Merrill Lynch for over 15 years. Clint also practiced tax and business law at the law firm of Fox Rothschild for over six years. He was a member of the firm’s Estate Planning and Tax and Corporate Transactions groups. Clint is a member of Washington State Bar Association (WSBA) and is actively involved in the WSBA’s Real Property, Probate and Trust section. He is the co-author of the Washington Partnership and Limited Liability Company Deskbook and was named a “Rising Star” by Washington Law and Politics magazine.

Clint received his Master of Laws in Taxation from the University of Washington School of Law, his Juris Doctor from the University of Oregon School of Law, and his Bachelor of Arts from the University of Washington. He is Series 7 and 66 licensed.

Outside of work Clint is an avid, but admittedly, pretty awful skier. He and his fiancé live in Seattle with their 10 year old Boston Terrier named Annie.

About Stephen Rothman

Stephen is a Planning Associate at Morgan Stanley providing dedicated financial planning support to Financial Advisors and their teams. Operating as an extension of the FA/Team, he collaborates with clients to discover and define goals that matter most to them. Leveraging state of the art technology, he will evaluate various options and their potential outcomes to help clients confidently choose the appropriate course of action. Stephen provides expertise across a wide suite of Morgan Stanley planning tools designed to assist in the areas of investment accumulation, retirement, education, major purchase, cash flow, risk management, tax efficiency, and wealth transfer planning.

Stephen earned his undergraduate degree from Cornell University and received the Financial Planning Specialist® designation from the College for Financial Planning. Stephen is originally from Larchmont, NY and currently resides in New Rochelle, NY.
Morgan Stanley Wealth Management Financial Advisers can conduct their business in several ways: individually, as a member of a team of Financial Advisors, or through the formation of a Strategic Partnership with another Financial Advisor or team of Financial Advisors. A Strategic Partnership is an arrangement between a Financial Advisor or a team of Financial Advisors with another Financial Advisor or team of Financial Advisors that has a unique focus or knowledge regarding a specific business concentration, product area, and/or client type. If your account is with an individual Financial Advisor, that Financial Advisor services all facets of your account. If your account is with a Financial Advisor who is a member of a team, any Financial Advisor on the team can service your account. If your Financial Advisor is part of a Strategic Partnership, his or her role in that Strategic Partnership may be limited to a specific business and/or product area and may not cover all facets of your account. The use of the terms “Partner” or “Strategic Partner” and/or “Partnership” or “Strategic Partnership” are used as terms of art and not used to imply or connote any legal relationship.

Business Planning

Helping you on key aspects of your business such as ownership, liquidity and developing opportunities.
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  • 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.

Mosaic

Explore ideas and inspiration with captivating, original lifestyle stories created exclusively for Morgan Stanley clients.
A Change of GreeneryLink Opens in New Tab
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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.

Financial Wellness

Enhancing Financial Wellness enables your workforce to do their best work. Companies that invest in financial wellness have an opportunity to:
  • Reduce employee stress,
  • Improve retention and engagement, and
  • Set themselves apart by offering comprehensive financial wellness benefits.
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The Business Case for a Financially Resilient Workforce

In the face of turbulent markets, the word “resilience” may be top of mind. Broadly speaking, resilience is the ability to “bounce back” when encountering life’s inevitable challenges.
Ready to start a conversation? Contact The Cypress Group today.
Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. (CFP Board) owns the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, and CFP® (with plaque design) in the United States, which it authorizes use of by individuals who successfully complete CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements.

1Morgan Stanley 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.

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

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2Morgan 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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3Morgan Stanley offers a wide array of brokerage and advisory services to its clients, each of which may create a different type of relationship with different obligations to you. Please consult with your Financial Advisor to understand these differences or review our Understanding Your Brokerage and Investment Advisory Relationships brochure available at www.morganstanley.com/wealth-relationshipwithms/pdfs/understandingyourrelationship.pdf.

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4Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (“Morgan Stanley”), its affiliates and Morgan Stanley Financial Advisors and Private Wealth Advisors do not provide tax or legal advice. Clients should consult their tax advisor for matters involving taxation and tax planning and their attorney for matters involving trust and estate planning and other legal matters.

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5Products 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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6Morgan 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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7Insurance products are offered in conjunction with Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC’s licensed insurance agency affiliates.

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8Insurance products are offered in conjunction with Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC’s licensed insurance agency affiliates.

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9When 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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10Morgan 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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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 DisclosuresLink Opens in New Tab
CRC 6491812 (04/2024), 3582895 (6/2024)