Story and Services

We believe in the importance of building a strong relationship with our clients and this is the foundation and driving principle of our practice. Sharing financial information with a financial advisor is a highly personal experience so it is important you have a high level of confidence and connection with your financial advisor team.

We take pride in the detailed initial discovery process we conduct with each client. Located in Bloomington, Minnesota, we work closely with you to understand your financial story, and within this discovery process we will develop a thoughtful financial plan and investment strategy that reflects your goals and values throughout every stage of your life. We strive to understand your feelings and past experiences with money, household finances, interactions with financial institutions, investing, and how you view the world around you. The information gathered from these discussions is just the beginning of building a longstanding relationship focused on what matters the most to you.
Services Include
Check the background of Our Firm and Investment Professionals on FINRA's BrokerCheck.*

4 Step Process

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Are you on track to reach your financial goals?

Our approach to wealth planning focuses on what is most meaningful to you. Whether meeting with you for the first time or reviewing your progress and life goals, this is our priority. Leveraging our vast resources—including intellectual capital, experience and dedicated personal service—we can work with you to create a personalized wealth strategy. Our approach to Wealth Management is formal yet flexible. Over time, we can adapt it to changing circumstances, helping you to achieve and to protect your goals.
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    Do I need to talk to my family about wealth?
    Money is one of the trickiest topics to discuss. But avoiding the conversation can lead to problems. Learn how to start the dialogue with your family.
    Family Finances
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    Does my retirement plan need a checkup?
    Given recent market volatility, checking in on your retirement plan may make a lot of sense.
    A Six-Step Retirement Checkup
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    How can I navigate volatile markets?
    Market volatility can increase or decrease depending on where we are in the business cycle. Here’s why this shouldn’t worry long-term investors.
    How To Handle Volatility
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    Could I be keeping more of what I earn?
    Establishing a tax management strategy for your investments can help you.
    Tax-Efficient Investing
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    Thinking About Your Legacy? Why You May Need a Trust
    You can’t take it with you, but through a trust, you can define how you want your life’s work and wealth to continue to benefit the people and causes you love and care for.
    Legacy Trusts and Estate Planning
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    Thinking of Relocating? Know These Key Facts Before You Move
    Moving from one U.S. state to another can have important tax, estate and lifestyle implications. Explore some of the key issues you should consider before choosing a new home.
    Tax and Estate Concerns
Digital technology is centered on how people communicate, consume, transact and travel. Our comprehensive suite of digital tools are designed to help enhance every aspect of your financial life. Here are a few of the technologies we have to offer our clients.
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    Morgan Stanley Online
    Morgan Stanley Online (MSO) has a variety of features beyond viewing your account balance and activity that you should take advantage of. They include:

    - eAuthorizations, an enhanced way to authorize transactions with one click on Morgan Stanley Online and the Morgan Stanley Mobile App.
    - eDelivery, which reduces paper documents sent by mail and can protect your personal information from getting into the hands of identity thieves.
    - Linking your accounts outside of Morgan Stanley, which can help you see your larger financial picture and allow us to have more informed wealth planning discussions.
    - Managing your everyday finances such as paying bills online, sending money or transferring funds.
    MSO Log-In
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    Digital Vault
    Keeping important documents and financial records organized and readily available is one of the best gifts you can give those you love. In the event of catastrophe or serious illness, disability or death, your Family Records Organizer can immediately provide vital, timely information to both your family and professional advisors.

    The Digital Vault on Morgan Stanley Online and the Mobile App allows you and your clients to build a central, shared document library where all documents are stored using encryption.
    Digital Vault Video
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    eSign
    eSign is a digital, paperless alternative to the traditional means of obtaining signatures from clients on paperwork.

    There is no registration process for you to begin using eSign — all you need is a valid email address and phone number.

    The eSign Portal allows branch personnel to create and send forms to clients for their electronic signature, track the status of packages that have been sent, and take action on forms that clients have signed electronically and returned.
    eSign Video
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    eAuthorization
    eAuthorization allows clients to electronically authorize domestic and international, one-time/recurring transactions through Morgan Stanley Online and the Morgan Stanley Mobile App.

    - Fast: Clients can quickly authorize any transaction with one click.
    - Convenient: Clients manage their authorizations from anywhere using Morgan Stanley Online or Morgan Stanley Mobile.
    - Secure: By using a secure login, eAuthorizations are safely made through online and the mobile application.
    - Simple: The branch receives the client’s request, inputs the transaction, the client approves the request, and the transaction is executed.
    eAuthorization
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    eDelivery
    eDelivery provides you with the ability to view statements and other Firm documents electronically in lieu of paper. Clients who are registered in Morgan Stanley Online may enroll in eDelivery.

    Currently, documents available through eDelivery include statements, trade confirmations and prospectuses, general correspondence, selected Internal Revenue Service (IRS) approved tax documents, syndicate offerings, shareholder communications, and portfolio reports.
    eDelivery
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    Data Security
    Our highest priority is keeping your information protected. Morgan Stanley dedicates significant resources to protecting your assets and personal information.

    -Strong encryption protocols designed to protect your data.
    - Continuous monitoring to help detect and prevent fraud.
    - Routine testing of our systems and security protocols.
    - Independent review by outside security firms.
    Data Security

Upcoming Firm Events

We hope you will join us for this upcoming event.

AI Revolution: The Breakthrough, the Buzz and a Blueprint for the Future

We invite you to watch the replay from our thought-provoking conversation on artificial intelligence (AI) with James Dyett, OpenAI's Head of Enterprise & Strategic Sales, Keith Weiss, Morgan Stanley's Head of U.S. Software Research Jeff McMillan, Morgan Stanley's Head of Firmwide Artificial Intelligence, recorded on Monday, March 24.

CRC4303146 03/2025
Online

Additional Replays

Location

8300 Norman Center Dr
Ste 1150
Bloomington, MN 55437
US
Direct:
(952) 921-1980(952) 921-1980

Meet The Ellman Group

About Chad R. Ellman

Chad has been in financial services for over 20 years and has been blessed with great mentors and successes. He knew at a young age he wanted to be a Financial Advisor and that dream has never waivered, however, what he didn't know at the time was how he would truly enjoy the relationships he has with his clients and that is the reason why he comes to work every day.

Chad began his career at North Star Resource Group and then eventually joined Merrill Lynch where Chad helped clients with estate and investment planning for approximately ten years. In 2009 Chad moved his growing practice to Morgan Stanley and is the team's Senior Financial Advisor and Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor.

In addition, as a Family Wealth Advisor, Chad is able to view and recommend strategies in managing complex generational wealth and inheritances for his clients. This is a unique firm designation and is often multifaceted in managing the family relationships and finances. With Chad's experience in this area, he is able to manage the process effectively and provide direction and guidance to clients in what can be a chaotic time in one's life.

Chad earned his B.S. degree from Mankato State University where he also played football. Chad and his wife, Stacy, reside in Victoria with their two daughters, Madison and Alexis. In his spare time, Chad enjoys hunting, fishing, golfing, and spending time with his family.
Securities Agent: GA, DE, CA, AR, TX, OR, FL, AL, MI, SC, CT, CO, AZ, WI, OK, IA, SD, ND, MN, TN, NY, NV, IL, VA, MA, WA, MS, PA, DC, NE, MO, IN, NH, ME, OH, NJ; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative; Managed Futures
NMLS#: 1578874

About Cheri A. McHugo

Cheri has worked in various roles within financial services for the past 10 years, providing her with a wealth of experiences and responsibilities. Cheri comes from a robust financial planning background and has a strong reputation in the industry for her commitment to client service and education. She is dedicated to learning about and understanding what matters the most to clients and in that process develops a customized wealth strategy that can be adjusted throughout life's changes.

Cheri holds a B.S. degree in Finance from Metropolitan State University and earned the Certified Financial Planner designation in 2018.

Cheri resides in Osseo with her husband, Tim and two boys, Timmy and Jack. Cheri enjoys cheering on her boys in their sporting events, reading, attending concerts, going to the lake, and playing volleyball.
Securities Agent: IA, OK, TX, NJ, WI, VA, TN, SD, SC, OH, NY, NV, ND, MN, MI, MA, IL, GA, FL, DE, CO, CA, AZ; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative
NMLS#: 1813214
Wealth Management
Global Investment Office

Portfolio Insights

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.

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.

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.

Philanthropy

Making sure your philanthropic dollars are managed with the same high quality service as the rest of your wealth.
  • Endowments
  • Foundations
  • Donor Advised Funds
  • Impact Investing
Donor Advised Funds: A Smart Way to Manage Your Giving 
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Donor Advised Funds: A Smart Way to Manage Your Giving 

There’s more to charitable giving than you may realize. Here’s one method that may be a tax-efficient way to give and can help maximize your impact.

Mosaic

Explore ideas and inspiration with captivating, original lifestyle stories created exclusively for Morgan Stanley clients.
A Change of Greenery
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A Change of Greenery

Houseplants add oxygen, flair, and warmth year-round, and the right one in the right space can do just as much for a room as any painting or side table.
Ready to start a conversation? Contact The Ellman Group today.
Market Information Delayed 20 Minutes
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’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.

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

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2Morgan Stanley Wealth Management is the trade name of Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC, a registered broker-dealer in the United States.

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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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5Morgan 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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6When 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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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 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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8Morgan 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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9Fixed Income investing entails credit risks and interest rate risks. When interest rates rise, bond prices generally fall.

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10Insurance products are offered in conjunction with Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC’s licensed insurance agency affiliates.

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11Insurance products are offered in conjunction with Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC’s licensed insurance agency affiliates.

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Check the background of our Firm and Investment Professionals on FINRA's BrokerCheck*.

The information, products and services described here are intended only for individuals residing in states where this Financial Advisor is properly registered as described in this site.

Morgan Stanley reserves the right, to the extent permitted under applicable law, to retain and monitor all electronic communications. Morgan Stanley will not accept purchase or sale orders via any Internet site, social media site and/or its messaging systems. Morgan Stanley does not endorse and is not responsible and assumes no liability for content, products or services posted by third-parties on any Internet site, social media site and/or its messaging systems. All electronic communications are subject to terms available at the following link:
https://www.morganstanley.com/disclaimers/mswm-email.html. Any profiles and associated content are for U.S. residents only.

The securities/instruments, services, investments and investment strategies discussed in this material may not be appropriate for all investors. The appropriateness of a particular investment, investment strategy or service will depend on an investor's individual circumstances and objectives. Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC recommends that investors independently evaluate particular investments, strategies and services, and encourages investors to seek the advice of a Financial Advisor or Private Wealth Advisor. This material does not provide individually tailored investment advice. It has been prepared without regard to the individual financial circumstances and objectives of persons who receive it.

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

Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (“Morgan Stanley”) is not implying an affiliation, sponsorship, endorsement with/of the third party or that any monitoring is being done by Morgan Stanley of any information contained within the website. Morgan Stanley is not responsible for the information contained on the third-party website or the use of or inability to use such site. Nor do we guarantee their accuracy or completeness.

The views, opinions or advice contained within third party websites or materials are solely those of the author, who is not a Morgan Stanley employee, and do not necessarily reflect those of Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC, or its affiliates. The strategies and/or investments referenced may not be appropriate for all investors as the appropriateness of a particular investment or strategy will depend on an investor's individual circumstances and objectives.

*References to length of service at Morgan Stanley include years at Morgan Stanley and predecessor firms.

Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. owns the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and federally registered CFP (with flame design) in the U.S, which it awards to individuals who successfully complete CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements.

The use of the CDFA designation does not permit the rendering of legal advice by Morgan Stanley or its Financial Advisors which may only be done by a licensed attorney.  The CDFA designation is not intended to imply that either Morgan Stanley or its Financial Advisors are acting as experts in this field.

Awards Disclosures
CRC 6491812 (04/2024)