Welcome

For over three decades, The Pulley Group at Morgan Stanley* has guided clients through the challenging process of planning for their retirement. We are a trusted and established wealth management team that offers impartial strategies, thorough recommendations and exceptional client service. We strive to help you simplify your financial life while remaining focused on the most important goal: the security and protection of your financial future. Our success is based on exceeding your expectations.
Services Include
Check the background of Our Firm and Investment Professionals on FINRA's BrokerCheck.*

Working With You

The Pulley Group at Morgan Stanley is a partnership of four qualified professionals who are dedicated to helping manage your wealth. Our group structure helps ensure that you will receive consistent and dependable service from a team of trusted professionals. Each member’s responsibilities are designated to address the on-going business functions of operations, investments, research, financial planning, and marketing. We believe that a proactive, well-structured approach towards asset management is crucial for providing a successful financial plan. The Pulley Group at Morgan Stanley will help you design a financial “blueprint” for achieving your family’s immediate, on-going, and future goals. While The Pulley Group may have different roles in your wealth management process, we all share the same commitment: to provide our clients with outstanding support, service, and advice.
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    1. Intro Call
    We begin with an introduction call to assess your interests and determine how we can be of assistance. As we discuss and explore your unique situation, we typically uncover items that might mandate additional review.
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    2. Get to Know You Meeting
    After our initial dialog on the telephone, our next step is to understand you and your families dynamics, define your priorities moving forward, and review documents you have prepared.
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    3. Plan Creation
    In this step we take into consideration all of your concerns, goals, and unique circumstances to put together a plan specifically tailored for you that will help you grow, preserve, and transfer your wealth to the next generation.
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    4. Implementation & Ongoing Service
    After creating a comprehensive plan that is dynamic to your goals, we will begin implementing the plan. From there, we will be committed to continuous service, updating the plan as you and your life changes.

Experience

The Pulley Group has decades of experience of working with clients and helping them achieve their financial goals. Here are a few examples of expertise that The Pulley Group has integrated with clients for decades:
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    401k Rollovers
    Rolling over a 401k to an IRA can seem like an intimidating process, but we have been helping clients with this for years. We will help ensure your rollover is going to make the most sense for you and your financial situation.
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    Financial Planning
    Life is constantly changing, and creating a financial plan that is uniquely yours is important in minimizing the impact of future events that may have a significant affect on your life plans.
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    Portfolio Management
    While there is no secret formula to choosing and managing investments, a methodological, long-term approach, allows us to grasp a comprehensive view of your financial situations to make recommendations that are the best fit for you. We manage your retirement accounts and other investments based on your appropriate level with risk and your current tax circumstances, tailoring your financial strategy to your unique situation, needs, and goals.
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    Multi-Generational Wealth Transfer
    Regardless of your current financial circumstances, it is crucial to have a backup plan for your money in case something happens to you. We will help ensure the transfer of wealth to your future generations goes as planned and is as easy as possible for everyone. We will continuously review this to make sure that the transfer is as efficient and cost-effective as possible.
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    529 Plans
    As college tuitions continue to rise, it is important to start saving for education costs early. We will help you open a 529 plan and begin funding so your loved ones can afford the education they deserve.
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    Business Succession Planning
    Transiting from owner to seller is a significant task that has many options. Whether a family business or a multiple owners, we are here to help ensure the transition of your business that you built is as easy as possible while exploring all of the options available.
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    Family Wealth Director
    The Family Wealth Director recognition is earned after a 9 month study. It is by invitation only. Only 2% of Morgan Stanley Advisors hold the title.
    Click here to view recognition
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    Morgan Stanley's Retirement Standard Committee
    Erik is a proud panel member of this committee.
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    Morgan Stanley's Chairman Council
    Erik is a proud member of this council.
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    Forbes' Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams 2024
    Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams
    Source: Forbes.com (Awarded Jan 2024) Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based for the period 3/31/22-3/31/23.
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    Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors 2024
    Forbes America's Top Wealth Advisors & Best-In-State Wealth Advisors
    Source: Forbes.com (Awarded April 2024) Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC for the period 6/30/22 - 6/30/23.
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    Forbes' Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams 2023
    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.
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    Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors 2023
    Forbes America's Top Wealth Advisors & Best-In-State Wealth Advisors
    Source: Forbes.com (Awarded April 2023) Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on time period from 6/30/21 - 6/30/22.
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    Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors 2022
    Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors
    Source: Forbes.com (Awarded Apr 2022) Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on time period from 6/30/20 - 6/30/21.
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    Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors 2021
    Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors
    ​Source: Forbes.com (Awarded Feb 2021) Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on time period from 6/30/19 - 6/30/20.
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    Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors 2020
    Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors
    Source: Forbes.com (Awarded Jan 2020) Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on time period from 6/30/18 - 6/30/19.
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    Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors 2019
    ​Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors
    Source: Forbes.com (Awarded Feb 2019) Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on time period from 6/30/17 - 6/30/18.
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    GIC Monthly
    A monthly publication that summarizes the Global Investment Committee’s market outlook and contains thought-provoking essays that examine the forces shaping the investment landscape.
    Read: "GIC Monthly"
    Morgan Stanley Online (photo) - DO NOT EDIT CONTENT - MUST USE AS IS
    Morgan Stanley Online
    Morgan Stanley Online allows you to seamlessly and securely manage your investments and everyday finances in one place.
    Register for Morgan Stanley Online Today
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    Digital Vault
    Digital Vault lets you easily and securely manage and share important documents such as account statements, authorizations, tax filings and other relevant documents with your Financial Advisor.
    Get Started Today
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    Total Wealth View
    Total Wealth View allows you to add your non-Morgan Stanley accounts into one place. This allows a clearer more holistic view of your entire financial picture and is a great up to date snapshot of your total net worth.
    Click Here to Learn More
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    eDelivery
    Sign up for eDelivery today and start receiving email notifications as soon as your account documents are available on Morgan Stanley Online or the Morgan Stanley Mobile App. It's quick, convenient & secure.
    Enroll Today
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    Wealth and Estate Planning Series
    Explore a series of educational videos covering topics such as Foundational Estate Planning Documents, Estate & Gift Taxes, Grantor Retained Annuity Trusts (GRATs), Irrevocable Life Insurance Trusts and more.
    Click Here to Learn More

Location

1999 Harrison St
Suite 2200
Oakland, CA 94612
US
Direct:
(510) 891-5250(510) 891-5250
Toll-Free:
(800) 755-1579(800) 755-1579

Meet The Pulley Group

About Erik Pulley

After earning his degree at the University of Arizona, Erik began his career in finance with The Pulley Group at Morgan Stanley in 1997.  For over two decades, Erik’s practice has focused exclusively on individuals and families with significant wealth, with the majority being former Chevron employees.  His experience managing retirement assets through tumultuous market cycles has given him a vast knowledge of retirement income strategies.  His extensive understanding of qualified plan distribution options, executive plans, and deferred compensation makes him well positioned to guide clients through all stages of the retirement planning process.

Erik’s responsibilities include investment management and research, comprehensive wealth planning, and marketing efforts for The Pulley Group.  By leveraging the research capabilities of Morgan Stanley’s Global Investment Committee, Erik is able to deliver a comprehensive, repeatable investment process that is uniquely tailored to each individual client’s needs.  In recognition of his accomplishments, Erik has been appointed to Morgan Stanley’s President’s Council for Financial Advisors.

Erik currently resides in Hillsborough with his three children, Taylor, Trevor, and Chase.  In his spare time, he enjoys fly fishing, snowboarding, hiking, traveling, and spending time with his children.
Securities Agent: MN, TX, CA, UT, PA, MS, IN, WY, CT, AZ, SC, OH, NV, NH, FL, WA, NY, MI, HI, AL, OR, MD, DE, CO, NC, MA, AK, AR, TN, LA, KY, ID, GA; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative
NMLS#: 1297826
CA Insurance License #: 0C43633

About John W Pulley

John Pulley is the founder of The Pulley Group at Morgan Stanley.  His tenure with Morgan Stanley and its predecessor firms spans nearly forty years, and he remains actively engaged and committed to advising retirees.  

John’s background in the field of portfolio management is quite extensive.  He was a partner with one of the largest firms in the United States focusing on retirement planning and counseling.  As a former Vice President of American Express’ real estate division, he was twice recognized as the outstanding regional vice president of the year by two divisions of major Wall Street firms.

After nearly 50 years of financial industry experience, John contributes insightful market perspective to The Pulley Group.  His primary role is to provide comprehensive investment advice to his clients, while maintaining valued relationships that have spanned decades.

John currently resides in San Mateo with his wife, Mary. He is an avid traveler and enjoys spending time with his six grandkids.
Securities Agent: OH, CO, WA, AR, MI, NC, TX, TN, ID, CT, SC, NV, IN, AK, WY, PA, FL, AL, MS, MN, MD, KY, HI, DE, CA, OR, LA, GA, NY, NH, MA, AZ, UT; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative
NMLS#: 1282946
CA Insurance License #: 0A11720

About Robin Ross

Robin Ross has been a member of The Pulley Group since 1996, and has worked in the financial services industry for nearly three decades.  She is FINRA series 7 and 63 licensed, has her California insurance license, and obtained the firm's Financial Planning Associate designation in 2005.

Robin brings comprehensive knowledge of retirement planning issues to The Pulley Group.  In addition to generating the customized financial plans, Robin works closely with Erik in helping new clients transition into retirement.  Her responsibilities include researching rollover distribution strategies and business development.

In her spare time, Robin enjoys spending time with her family and two dogs, going to 49er football games, and is an avid amateur genealogist.
CA Insurance License #: 0F79998

About Jill Vonhof

Jill Vonhof, an original member of The Pulley Group at Morgan Stanley, has been with Morgan Stanley and its predecessor firms since 1989.  With over 40 years of experience in the industry, Jill currently holds her FINRA series 7, 63 licenses and her California insurance license.  Formerly serving as an Operations Manager at Merrill Lynch, she currently manages daily operations and administration for our group.  Jill has received numerous performance awards, including the firm's Performance Quality Award for extraordinary contribution to service quality improvements.

When not at work, Jill enjoys exploring the great outdoors and spending time with friends, family, and her dog, Jak.  Jill has hiked Half Dome numerous times, competed in the Escape from Alcatraz Triathlon, made the daunting swim from Alcatraz to St. Francis Yacht Club twice, and ran in the See Jane Run Half Marathon'.
CA Insurance License #: 0A81829
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
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.

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 Pulley Group today.
Market Information Delayed 20 Minutes
1Investors should consider many factors before deciding which 529 plan is appropriate. Some of these factors include: the Plan’s investment options and the historical investment performance of these options, the Plan’s flexibility and features, the reputation and expertise of the Plan’s investment manager, Plan contribution limits and the federal and state tax benefits associated with an investment in the Plan. Some states, for example, offer favorable tax treatment and other benefits to their residents only if they invest in the state’s own Qualified Tuition Program. Investors should determine their home state’s tax treatment of 529 plans when considering whether to choose an in-state or out-of-state plan. Investors should consult with their tax or legal advisor before investing in any 529 Plan or contact their state tax division for more information. Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC does not provide tax and/or legal advice. Investors should review a Program Disclosure Statement, which contains more information on investment options, risk factors, fees and expenses and possible tax consequences.

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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 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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4Morgan 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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5Insurance products are offered in conjunction with Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC’s licensed insurance agency affiliates.

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

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7Morgan 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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8Morgan 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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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)