About Our Team: More Than Advice—A Strategy That Wins

For over 20 years, we’ve helped successful families and business owners cut through the noise and take control of their financial futures. The world is complex, but your strategy doesn’t have to be. Our approach is simple, effective, and backed by the full strength of Morgan Stanley—all while keeping you focused on what matters most.

We don’t waste time chasing trends or making short-term bets. Instead, we apply a disciplined, research-driven strategy that helps our clients build, preserve, and grow their wealth with confidence. But we don’t just manage investments—we orchestrate your entire financial picture to ensure every piece works together seamlessly.

Whether it’s structuring your wealth for long-term security, optimizing your tax strategy, planning for retirement, or preparing for a major transition, we provide guidance that helps you stay in control. For business owners, we offer strategies to accelerate business value, prepare for an eventual exit, and transition wealth effectively—ensuring their business success translates into personal financial freedom.

With access to industry-leading resources, we provide comprehensive wealth management solutions across:

Retirement & Cash Flow Planning
Tax Management & Business Strategy
Estate & Legacy Planning
Professional Portfolio Management
Alternative Investments & Private Markets
Liquidity & Wealth Transfer Strategies for Business Owners
Insurance & Lending Solutions

You’ve worked hard to get where you are. Now, let’s take it further. Schedule a conversation today and see what’s possible when your financial strategy is built to win.
Services Include
Check the background of Our Firm and Investment Professionals on FINRA's BrokerCheck.*

Our Focused Diversification Approach to Investing

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Investing should be clear, disciplined, and purposeful—without unnecessary complexity or dilution. At The Peace River Team, we built Index+ with our Focused Diversification approach to do just that: focus on high-quality companies and research-driven stock selection.
Index+ Models at a Glance
• Winner Takes All (WTA) – Built on the chassis of the S&P 500 but turbocharged with the power of Morgan Stanley Research. This high-conviction strategy selects only Morgan Stanley’s highest-rated stocks, ensuring that each position is meaningful.

• qDow – A hybrid portfolio that combines the resilience of the DJIA with the innovation of the Nasdaq 100, strategically emphasizing the strongest-rated companies while filtering out weaker holdings.

• Low Volatility Equity Income – A defensive, equity-focused alternative to traditional income strategies, following the same high-conviction discipline as WTA but using the S&P 500 Low Volatility Index as its benchmark.
Principles with Precision, Not Compromise
Over the years, we’ve seen a growing number of investors who want to integrate their deeply held convictions into their financial plans. For those investors, we developed Portfolios on Principal—a customization approach that allows for personal alignment without sacrificing the discipline that drives strong performance.

Every company in our portfolios is vetted through Morgan Stanley’s award-winning research, ensuring that all holdings meet rigorous financial and strategic criteria. Unlike traditional filtering methods that apply broad exclusions with unpredictable results, our customization overlays are designed to maintain portfolio strength while allowing investors to emphasize key themes without compromising performance.

We offer four targeted overlays for investors who want to personalize their portfolios while preserving the integrity of our research-driven approach:

• Faithful Stewardship – Prioritizing companies with leadership practices that align with strong governance and corporate responsibility.

• Women in Leadership – Investing in companies where women hold significant executive or board positions.

• Green Innovation – Focusing on firms driving innovation in sustainability, energy efficiency, and resource management.

• Patriotic Employers – Highlighting companies with strong domestic hiring practices and investment in American workers.
A Smarter Approach to Portfolio Construction
We don’t chase fads, over-diversify, or rely on outdated allocation methods. Index+ portfolios are built to prioritize clarity, conviction, and disciplined portfolio management.

For investors who want simplicity without sacrifice, transparency without clutter, and performance without excessive risk, Index+ provides a research-driven approach that evolves with the markets—without unnecessary complexity.
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    2024 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams
    Source: Forbes.com (Awarded Jan 2024) Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based for the period from 3/31/22–3/31/23.
    Awards Disclosures

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

425 Cross Street
Suite 116
Punta Gorda, FL 33950
US
Direct:
(941) 833-2000(941) 833-2000
Toll-Free:
(800) 256-4943(800) 256-4943

Meet The Peace River Team

About Eric Charles Loche

Eric Loche’s career in wealth management isn’t just about numbers—it’s personal.

In 1987, his family faced an unexpected financial crisis. After his father suffered an injury that left him unable to work, Black Monday wiped out a quarter of their savings. When Eric applied for financial aid, he was told they didn’t qualify—despite his family’s hardship.

Everything changed when his parents met a financial planner who helped them navigate the crisis. Eric was preparing to leave college, packing his belongings, when his family called with good news. Because of that advisor’s guidance, they stayed afloat—and Eric graduated.

That moment shaped his future. He saw firsthand how the right financial strategy can change lives, and it’s why he dedicates his career to helping others gain control, protect their wealth, and build a future they can count on.

A Career Built on Expertise and Integrity

Now, with over 30 years in the financial services industry, Eric leads The Peace River Team’s stock, bond, and mutual fund strategies through a discretionary investment platform built on Morgan Stanley’s award-winning research. His high-conviction approach ensures that every investment plays a meaningful role—avoiding the common inefficiencies that weaken many modern portfolios.

Eric holds both the Certified Portfolio Manager® (CPM®) and CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ (CFP®) designations, reinforcing his expertise in investment management and holistic financial planning.

He began his career in 1994 with NationsBank, transitioned to wealth management at Merrill Lynch in 1997, and later joined Wells Fargo before arriving at Morgan Stanley in 2014. His dual degrees in Journalism and Psychology from California State University-Chico (1990) give him a unique ability to communicate complex financial strategies in simple, effective terms.

Committed to Clients. Dedicated to Community.

Beyond his work, Eric is deeply committed to his community in Port Charlotte, Florida, where he lives with his wife, Jennifer, an RN serving the local area. Over the years, he has dedicated himself to numerous leadership and philanthropic roles, including:
• Board Member, Florida SouthWestern State College Foundation
• Founding Partner & Former President, Crossroads Hope Academy
• Executive Board Member, Charlotte County Economic Development Partnership
• Former Advisory Committee Member, Charlotte County Blood Bank
• Past President, Charlotte County Jaycees

Eric’s mission is clear: help people take control of their financial future, just like that advisor did for his family decades ago.
NMLS#: 1274552

About Ryan Rupert

For over two decades, Ryan Rupert has helped successful families and business owners simplify their financial lives and take control of their futures. As a founding member of The Peace River Team at Morgan Stanley, he delivers strategic wealth management solutions that are clear, effective, and built to win.

Ryan specializes in comprehensive financial planning, investment management, and business strategy, with deep expertise in alternative investments and business owner solutions.

As Alternative Investments Director, he provides qualified clients with access to private equity, private credit, hedge funds, and private REITs, while also advising on 1031 exchange strategies for tax-efficient real estate transactions.

For business owners, Ryan helps structure value acceleration, exit readiness, and wealth transition strategies that ensure they maximize their business value while creating a long-term financial plan for life after ownership. His approach is disciplined and research-driven, focusing on long-term success over short-term market noise.

Ryan earned his Bachelor of Business Administration from Ohio University in 2003 before spending two years working in Tokyo. This international experience gave him a unique perspective on global markets and business strategy, which he brings to his financial planning practice.

Community Leadership

Ryan is deeply engaged in the Punta Gorda community, serving on the boards of multiple nonprofit organizations, including:
• Gulfshore Opera (Board Member & Sponsor)
• Rotary Club – Peace River (Board Member & Past President, twice)
• Virginia B. Andes Volunteer Community Clinic (Board Member & Past President)
• Charlotte Estate Planning Council (Board Member & Past President)
• Florida Bar Association – 20th Circuit Grievance Committee (Voting Member)
• TEAM Punta Gorda (Board Member & Fundraising Chair)

Ryan lives in Punta Gorda, Florida, with his wife, Megumi, and their son. Outside of work, he enjoys time with family and friends, attending live music, playing music, camping, and his son’s sporting activities.
NMLS#: 1279039

About Monica Luna

Monica Luna’s journey has been shaped by a passion for people, culture, and making a meaningful impact. Born in Gainesville, Florida, and raised in the Dominican Republic, she grew up embracing diverse perspectives—an experience that fuels her ability to connect with clients from all backgrounds.

After earning a Bachelor of Business Administration in 1999, Monica built a successful career in international business, serving as the International Director for an environmentally friendly pesticide company. In this role, she gained valuable expertise in global commerce, sustainability, and strategic relationship-building.

Driven by a desire to create lasting change, Monica transitioned into the nonprofit sector, serving as the Resource Development Director for the Charlotte County Boys & Girls Clubs. There, she spearheaded fundraising initiatives and community outreach efforts, deepening her appreciation for how strong networks and dedicated leadership can transform lives.

A Relationship-Driven Approach to Wealth Management

Monica brings that same dedication to her role as a Financial Advisor with The Peace River Team at Morgan Stanley. Fluent in Spanish and English, she thrives on building strong relationships and guiding families, professionals, and business owners through the complexities of wealth management. She takes a personalized approach, helping clients define their financial goals and implement strategies that align with their unique aspirations.

Committed to Community and Lifelong Learning

Monica’s dedication to service extends far beyond her career. She is a graduate of the Charlotte County Chamber Leadership Program and has volunteered with numerous organizations, including:
• Charlotte Preparatory School (Board Member)
• American Red Cross (Board Member, Charlotte County Chapter)
• Virginia B. Andes Volunteer Community Clinic (Board Member & Past President)
• Visual Arts Center (Board Member)
• C.A.R.E. (Center for Abuse & Rape Emergencies, Board Member)
• Girls on the Run (Coach)
• Women Who Care of Charlotte County (Member)
• Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens (Supporter)
NMLS#: 2592351

About Kerri Duffey

With more than 20 years of experience in banking and financial services, Kerri Duffey is dedicated to delivering exceptional service and guiding clients through the financial planning process. As a Registered Associate with The Peace River Team at Morgan Stanley, she plays a pivotal role in drafting, updating, and monitoring client financial plans—ensuring they remain optimized and on track for long-term success.

Originally from Ohio, Kerri built a strong foundation in business, finance, lending, and operations before transitioning into wealth management. As a top Private Client Banker, she earned a reputation for going beyond expectations, providing thoughtful financial solutions tailored to each client’s needs.

Personalized Support for Every Financial Stage

Kerri collaborates closely with the advisory team to coordinate Morgan Stanley’s resources, delivering personalized strategies that address a wide range of financial needs. Whether assisting with retirement planning, investment strategies, or financial goal-setting, she helps clients navigate complex decisions with confidence.

Active in the Community

Now based in Punta Gorda, FL, Kerri remains actively involved in the local community as a Leadership Charlotte graduate (Class of 2022)

Beyond the Office

When she’s not helping clients, Kerri enjoys exploring the harbor walk, fishing, and competing in pickleball tournaments—bringing the same energy and strategic thinking to the court as she does to financial planning.

About Pablo Roca

With over two decades of financial experience, Pablo Roca is committed to delivering an exceptional client experience. As a Registered Associate with The Peace River Team at Morgan Stanley, he plays a key role in cash management, risk management, and portfolio administration, ensuring that clients’ financial strategies remain aligned with their long-term goals.

Fluent in Spanish and English, Pablo provides personalized support to a diverse range of clients, helping them navigate the complexities of investment and insurance strategies. His deep understanding of financial services, combined with his ability to foster meaningful client relationships, makes him a trusted resource within the team.

A Career Built on Financial Expertise

Originally from Guatemala, Pablo moved to Florida in 1998, where he pursued a degree in Business Administration at Edison College. He began his banking career with Wachovia Bank, later transitioning to Wells Fargo as a Private Banker, before joining Morgan Stanley in 2022.

His experience spans personal banking, lending, and investment services, giving him a well-rounded perspective on how to help clients protect and grow their wealth.

A Life of Service and Passion

Beyond finance, Pablo has a lifelong passion for music. As a performing vocalist and multi-instrumentalist, he shares this love of music with his daughters, Anai and Ariana.
Now living in Deep Creek, FL, Pablo continues to find joy in family, community engagement, and the art of sound—whether in the financial world or on stage.
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.

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.

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.
The Business Case for a Financially Resilient Workforce
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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 Peace River Team 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.

1When 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.

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

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2Insurance products are offered in conjunction with Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC’s licensed insurance agency affiliates.

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3Morgan 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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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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5Insurance products are offered in conjunction with Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC’s licensed insurance agency affiliates.

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6Municipal bonds may not be appropriate for all investors. Income generated from an investment in a municipal bond is generally exempt from federal income taxes. Some income may be subject to state and local taxes and to the federal alternative minimum tax. Capital gains, if any, are subject to tax.
Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (“Morgan Stanley”) and its Financial Advisors and Private Wealth Advisors do not provide any tax/legal advice. Consult your own tax/legal advisor before making any tax or legal-related investment decisions.

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7Morgan 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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8Morgan Stanley’s investment advisory programs may require a minimum asset level and, depending on your specific investment objectives and financial position, may not be appropriate for you. Please see the Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC program disclosure brochure (the “Morgan Stanley ADV”) for more information in the investment advisory programs available. The Morgan Stanley ADV is available at www.morganstanley.com/ADV.

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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)