Our Story and Services

As your Financial Advisors, we can help you define and strive to meet your goals by delivering a vast array of resources to you in the way that is most appropriate for how you invest and what you want to achieve. Working together we can help you to preserve and grow your wealth. You will have access to some of the world’s most seasoned and respected investment professionals, a premier trading and execution platform, and a full spectrum of investment choices.
Media
  • One of our advisors, Karl Lorenz, sat down with Forest & Bluff Magazine for an interview on what it means to manage clients’ wealth. He was privileged to share his views on the importance of good communication and ingredients for successful investing. Learn more from the link below.
Services Include
Check the background of Our Firm and Investment Professionals on FINRA's BrokerCheck.*

Principles We Live By

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New Clients

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    Initial Exploratory & Compatibility Call
    Our team wants to get to know you. What sets us apart is our customized approach and having a deep understanding of your wealth and the role it plays in your lives. Not every client is the same, not every advisor is the same. In such an intensely personal relationship, we want to make sure our expectations and values are aligned.
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    Client Referrals Upon Request
    Our team can provide client referrals if you would like firsthand reviews.
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    On-line Experience
    Our team can provide you access to the Morgan Stanley website as a potential new client. This will allow you to navigate through many of our tools and explore the site’s format. A few of the tools you will be able to use include the Cash Flow Management Tool (to review spending and budgeting), Digital Vault (to store and to send your confidential documents like wills, deeds, & trusts), and the Total Wealth View (which allows you to digitally connect your outside financial accounts all in one secure location).
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    Morgan Stanley World Class Research
    Morgan Stanley is renowned for its world-class research abilities due to its team of highly skilled analysts who conduct thorough market analysis, supply in-depth industry insights, and deliver timely and accurate financial research. The firm's commitment to excellence, extensive global network, and access to proprietary data contribute to its ability to offer valuable investment perspectives, making us a trusted resource for informed decision making in the financial markets.
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    Planning Capabilities
    Morgan Stanley stands out for its comprehensive planning capabilities, leveraging a blend of cutting-edge technology and financial tools to craft a plan to address all your financial needs – both short term and long term. Our personalized approach considers your unique financial goals, risk tolerance, and timelines to craft a tailored plan.
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    Our History
    The History of Morgan Stanley and the Strength of the Firm.
    Video
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    The Lorenz Group Introduction Brochure
    Learn more about our team, our process and firm capabilities.
    Introduction Brochure

Our Process

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    Step 1: Introductory Meeting
    Our relationship begins with an initial discussion aimed at learning how we can be of service and to ensure compatibility.
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    Step 2: Discovery Meeting
    During the discovery meeting we will work together to establish your financial goals, review your current financial situation, and develop an appropriate risk tolerance that can help you achieve the financial outcome you envision for yourself.
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    Step 3: Financial Plan Presentation
    Financial plan presentations map out essential factors that play into your financial success. Examining all aspects of your finances can help to provide a holistic asset allocation analysis for your accounts, helping to ensure a comprehensive financial plan that works for you.
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    Step 4: Action Items
    After the financial plan presentation, we will follow up with you regarding our analysis and recommendations. We will create prospective strategies custom designed for your specific needs. Recommended changes could include asset allocation, savings modifications, and tax minimization strategies.
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    Step 5: Monitoring and Performance Tracking
    Finally, we will monitor your assets and regularly analyze your performance to ensure we remain on track. We will update you regularly on our progress and the markets via phone, in-person meetings or firm communications.

OUR TOOLS TO SUPPORT AND PROTECT YOUR FINANCIAL PLAN at Morgan Stanley

Our comprehensive suites of digital tools are designed to help enhance every aspect of your financial life. This will allow you to view your financial plan, while also safeguarding your personal information.
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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.
    Learn More About MSO
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    Total Wealth View
    Complete your financial picture with Total Wealth View. By linking your account information, you will benefit from more informed wealth planning, more secure data access, and convenient connectivity.
    Learn More About Total Wealth View
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    Cybersecurity
    At Morgan Stanley, safeguarding your assets and personal information is among our highest priorities. Learn about our security measures and use our resources and ideas to help protect yourself online.
    Learn More About Online Security
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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 on Morgan Stanley Online may enroll in eDelivery.
    Enroll in eDelivery
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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.
    Digital Vault

Location

111 S Pfingsten Rd
Suite 200
Deerfield, IL 60015
US
Direct:
(847) 291-5647(847) 291-5647

Meet The Lorenz Group

About Karl Lorenz

Since becoming a financial advisor in 1994, Karl has focused on the creation of financial strategies for individuals and their families – each designed to meet their short and long-term goals. Karl began his career at Merrill Lynch, where he spent 26 years. He joined Morgan Stanley in October 2020.

Highly respected by a loyal clientele and the industry, Karl has been recognized by Forbes on their 2023 and 2024 “Best–In–State Wealth Advisors” list*.

Karl is a graduate of Bradley University, where he holds a Bachelor of Science degree in International Business. He also holds the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ (CFP®) certification from the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards and the Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor (CRPC®) designation from the College for Financial Planning. As a lifetime learner, he regularly attends advanced education symposiums and industry conferences, where he has been a featured speaker.

Active in his community, Karl has a place in his heart for serving others – people and animals. He formerly sat on the Finance Committee of School District 67, is a former board member of the Puppy Mill Project (a not-for-profit dedicated to educating the public about mistreatment of puppy mill dogs), and currently supports other causes near and dear to him.

Karl resides in Lake Forest with his wife, Jennifer, and their daughter. When not dedicating time to his causes and spending time with his family, Karl enjoys racket sports, playing golf, and traveling.



​2023 - 2024 Forbes Best-In- State Wealth Advisors
Source: Forbes.com (Awarded 2023, 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: MD, IN, SC, CT, TX, TN, OH, MI, WA, DE, PA, NC, IA, FL, CO, IL, MT, AZ, AR, DC, NY, MA, GA, CA, WI, MO, MN; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative
NMLS#: 559400

About Matthew Heise

Matthew brings nearly a decades’ worth of experience in the financial services and wealth management industry. Matthew began his career as a private equity consultant focused on managing small to mid-sized companies with long-term growth potential in consumer products, manufacturing, and distribution. Matthew transitioned to wealth management at Merrill Lynch in 2019 and joined Morgan Stanley in July 2024.

Matthew earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in History from Amherst College where he received All-America and Academic All-America honors in swimming in addition to the Coaches’ Leadership Award.

Matthew resides in Chicago, and enjoys golfing, spending time with his family, soccer, and assisting charities, including the Wounded Warrior Project.
Securities Agent: SC, IN, NM, GA, NC, TN, MN, CA, PA, NE, CO, NY, MO, IA, DE, AZ, AR, WA, VA, MT, IL, CT, MI, TX, MA, FL, DC, OH, MD, KY, WI; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative

About Gerald McCabe

Jerry is a seasoned professional with near 30 years of experience in wealth management. Jerry has navigated through various roles within the industry, honing his expertise and skills. He made a significant impact during his successful tenure at a competitor before joining the Lorenz Group in 2014.

With the Lorenz Group, Jerry plays a pivotal role assisting clients in evaluating, designing, and reviewing financial and wealth management goals. His dedication to excellence and strategic insights contribute to the success of the team. Jerry holds a double bachelor's degree with honors from the University of Honolulu Hawaii, Chaminade, specializing in International Trade/Finance and History.

While not in the office, Jerry finds joy in scuba diving, skiing, and embracing the thrill of adventure. His heart belongs to his family - wife Michelle and twin sons, Kaleb and Connor. Residing in Grayslake, Jerry actively gives back to his community through volunteer work, embodying the values of both professional success, and community engagement.

About Michelle Becerra Mok

Michelle is a graduate of Northeastern University, where she holds a BS in Finance, and has been in the industry since 2004. She handles all client administrative requests and is often the first point of contact for the team. She assists clients with a variety of needs including: new account openings and transfers, cash management requests, statement and tax reporting reconciliations, and general inquiries.

Michelle resides in Niles with her husband Joe, son Aiden, and stepdaughter Gianna.

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 Andrew Dittbenner

Andrew Dittbenner is a Private Banker serving Morgan Stanley Wealth Management offices in Illinois.

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.

Andrew began his career in financial services in 2010 and joined Morgan Stanley in 2018. Prior to joining the firm, he was a Senior Premier Banker at BMO Harris Bank, as well as a Financial Center Manager with the Fifth Third Bank.

Andrew received a Bachelor of Science in Business Marketing from Northern Illinois University. He and his wife live in Saint Charles, Illinois. When not at the office, Andrew volunteers with the Make a Wish Foundation. He also enjoys attending sporting events, as well as spending time with family and friends.
NMLS#: 718951

About Ashley Duresa

Ashley Duresa is the Financial Planning Director for the Chicago North Complex at Morgan Stanley.

Ashley began her career in financial services in 2017 and has been with Morgan Stanley since 2018. She started as a Client Service Associate and assisted with daily client requests, provided excellent client service, and developed financial plans. As she progressed with developing the financial plans, she became a Certified Financial Planner professional and started a new role as the Financial Planning Director.

As the Financial Planning Director, Ashley assists financial advisors and teams in planning engagement within their book of business as well as connecting firm resources to discover opportunities ultimately to better serve clients. As a CFP professional, she encompasses all aspects of financial planning which includes but are not limited to estate planning, tax management strategies, education planning, and retirement planning.

A magna cum laude graduate of Lake Forest College, Ashley graduated with a degree in Finance. In her free time, Ashley is a competitive bowler and enjoys walking her dog, golfing with her husband, and traveling.
Important information about your relationship with your Financial Advisor and Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC when using a Financial Planning tool. When your Financial Advisor prepares a Financial Plan, they will act in an investment advisory capacity for thirty (30) days after the delivery of your Financial Plan. To understand the differences between brokerage and advisory relationships, you should consult your Financial Advisor, or review our “Understanding Your Brokerage and Investment Advisory Relationships,” brochure available at https://www.morganstanley.com/wealth-relationshipwithms/pdfs/understandingyourrelationship.pdf.

You have sole responsibility for making all investment decisions with respect to the implementation of a Financial Plan. You may implement the Financial Plan at Morgan Stanley or at another firm. If you engage or have engaged Morgan Stanley, it will act as your broker, unless you ask it, in writing, to act as your investment adviser on any particular account.

Morgan 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.

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.

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
Are You Prepared for Tax Day?
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Are You Prepared for Tax Day?

The countdown to Tax Day has begun. Here are some strategies to consider as the deadline approaches.

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.

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.
Ready to start a conversation? Contact The Lorenz 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 Wealth Management is the trade name of Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC, a registered broker-dealer in the United States.

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2When 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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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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4When 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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5Alternative Investments are speculative and include a high degree of risk. An investor could lose all or a substantial amount of his/her investment. Alternative investments are appropriate only for qualified, long-term investors who are willing to forgo liquidity and put capital at risk for an indefinite period of time.

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6Morgan 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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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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9Annuities 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), 3582895 (6/2024)