About Me
Before joining Morgan Stanley in 2023, I was with Merrill Lynch since 1982. At Morgan Stanley, I am a Managing Director and Financial Advisor. I started my career at Merrill as a Portfolio Analyst and before leaving, I was a Managing Director with the firm. I am a graduate of the University of Delaware, receiving a B.S. in Econometrics.
My mission is to positively affect the lives of people I come in contact with whether it be through a smile, a laugh, or by guiding a family to help achieve their financial dreams. My strength is the ability to discern what clients are really saying about their financial and life priorities.
I lead an experienced team of professionals at Morgan Stanley. Along with my partner and wife, Linda Sanders, and our team, The Lockhart Sanders Group, has more than 100 years of combined experience. Having obtained the Certified Investment Management Analyst® (CIMA®) designation and combined with Linda’s Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP®) certification, we are well positioned to plan for your financial goals and objectives.
During my first 25 years at Merrill Lynch Wealth Management, I worked with some of the largest hedge fund and trading accounts on Wall Street. I was exposed to a high-level of financial intellect and learned what moves smart money. I bring this wealth of knowledge and experience to the clients we serve today.
We focus on addressing the needs of today’s affluent investor. It is with a complete analysis of each client’s set of goals and circumstances that we are able to offer specific planning and financial recommendations. Frequent review sessions allow us to assess progress and when necessary, adjust investment strategies to help better position clients for their future.
The partnership with my wife, Linda, has complemented our team’s approach to wealth management planning. As a married couple, we’re positioned to understand the psychology of marriage and the affects positive money decisions can have on a family.
MICHAEL'S HONORS & RECOGNITION:
Michael was named to Forbes “Best in State Wealth Advisors” list in 2025, marking his 7th time being ranked.
2018-2023 & 2025 Forbes Best-In- State Wealth Advisors
Source: Forbes.com (Awarded 2018-2023 & 2025). Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based 12-month time period concluding in June of year prior to the issuance of the award.
In 2023 Michael and his team, The Lockhart Sanders Group was also names to the Forbes “Best in State Wealth Management Teams”.
Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams
Source: Forbes.com (Awarded Jan 2023) Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on time period from 3/31/21-3/31/22.
In 2009, Michael was honored to be awarded to the Barron’s “Top 1,000 Financial Advisors: State by State” list.
Barron's Top 1,000 Financial Advisors: State-by-State
Source: Barron's.com (Awarded Feb 2009) Data compiled by Barron's based on time period from Sept 2007 - Sept 2008.
Securities Agent: AZ, CO, TX, PA, LA, PR, IL, VA, TN, SC, FL, CA, AR, DC, CT, KS, NY, NV, NH, MA, IN, NC, MD, UT, MT, MO, RI, NJ, ME; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative; Transactional Futures/Commodities; Managed Futures
NMLS#: 579033