Our Story

What is YOUR story? Each of us has a story.  It is created over our lifetime and woven together by our experiences.  Those experiences are what help to shape our passions, hopes & fears.  Our passions, hopes & fears are what help drive our financial decisions.  The Vaughan Group at Morgan Stanley is here to learn your story. We are a family team, focused on helping other families achieve their financial goals.  Is your passion sailing around the world in retirement? Is your hope that your grandchildren will be able to go to college without a worry about how to pay for it? Is your fear that you may outlive your money? We take the time to understand your story & work to help you enjoy your passions, achieve your hopes & allay your fears. What is OUR story? We are family. We are a father & daughter team that understands that sometimes family dynamics can be tough to navigate.  We each bring our own unique experiences, from both life & years of financial advising, to help you meet your goals & to navigate those dynamics.  By being a multi-generational team, we are also able to ensure a long, ongoing relationship to provide stability & continuity to your plans. It is this personalized approach that has allowed us to help craft family financial roadmaps for years.
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Check the background of Our Firm and Investment Professionals on FINRA's BrokerCheck.*

Our Process, The Vaughan Group Method

Our wealth management approach focuses on you, your family and your career - where you are today and where you want to go. Working together, we develop the strategies to help get you there, navigating life's challenges and helping you make more informed decisions about your wealth
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    1. Introductory Call
    We begin with an informal conversation to understand your financial concerns and determine how we can add value. If we all agree to move forward, we'll schedule our next meeting and request important financial information
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    2. Get To Know You Meeting
    We continue the dialogue by fostering an in-depth conversation where we learn about the values that shape your decisions and identify any unique circumstances. We also review the documents you've prepared and define your priorities
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    3. Analysis and Plan Development
    Here, we utilize proprietary financial planning tools to develop a personalized and detailed plan with recommendations to help you grow, preserve and transfer your wealth.
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    4. Implementation
    In this step, we present appropriate strategies that are designed to work together to achieve your goals. Upon your approval, we open new accounts for you at Morgan Stanley and initiate our investment recommendations. We'll also begin to implement other strategies we've discussed. These often encompass tax minimization strategies, as well as risk management and estate planning techniques.
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    5. Monitoring Results Against Your Goals
    We check in with you to deliver metrics around your portfolio, and ultimately measure trajectory towards your goals. Our ultimate mission is your success and well-being

Giving Back

The Vaughan Group at Morgan Stanley takes great pride in dedicating a considerable amount of time and resources to various causes. Here are some of the causes we currently support and have supported over the years:
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    Christendom College - Sacred Heart
    Gary is a regular benefactor to Christendom College, a private Catholic liberal arts college in Front Royal, Virginia. He is also a founding member of the confraternity of the Most Holy Rosary, Sacred Heart Parish chapter. His support for the institution's missions and programs and his involvement in his community demonstrates his dedication to making a positive impact in the world.
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    Rotary Club of Charles County
    Katharine has served as a former board member of the Rotary Club of Charles County. The Rotary Club of Charles County is a distinguished organization that has earned a reputation for its exceptional contributions to the betterment of society through various charitable activities. In addition to her involvement with the Rotary Club, Katie is a devoted parent who frequently volunteers at her children's school. where she selflessly dedicates her time to help nurture and support the academic growth well-being of the students.
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    Sacred Heart Church
    Phyllis, a devoted community member, is actively involved in a wide range of volunteer efforts within the Sacred Heart Church. Through her active engagement in charitable initiatives and programs, Phyllis exemplifies her unwavering commitment to serving the community and contributing to the meaningful work of the church
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    Coaching
    Corinne is a member of the leadership team overseeing the young adults group at the esteemed Sacred Heart Church. In addition to this role, she also serves as a coach for figure skating, bringing her expertise to guide and develop aspiring athletes in the sport.

Investor Tools and Resources

Our comprehensive suite of digital tools are designed to help enhance every aspect of your financial life. Below are a few of the technologies and publications that we offer our clients.
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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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    Online Security Center
    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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    Goals Based Planning
    Working with us, paired with our technology, is a great way to access advice and build a wealth plan. Read more about the advantages of working with our planning technology in reaching your financial goals.
    Learn About Our Planning Tools
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    Digital Vault
    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.
    Learn More About Digital Vault
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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.
    Enroll in eDelivery
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    MS at Work Webcasts
    Stay ahead of the curve in the ever-evolving workplace by gaining valuable insights, perspectives, and best practices from thought leaders. Learn how to propel your business forward and inspire your employees to excel
    Click here to learn more
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    Thoughts on the Market Podcast
    Gaining a comprehensive understanding of the market's influencing factors by joining Morgan Stanley's Chief Investment Officer and Chief US Equity Strategist, Mike Wilson, and his colleagues discuss a variety of viewpoints regarding the latest trends in the financial marketplace.
    Check out the latest episode
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    Global Investment Committee Weekly Report
    This weekly market analysis focuses on asset class performance and fixed income, with insights from Lisa Shalett, a prominent member of the Global Investment Committee
    Read the Latest Report
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    Global Investment Committee Monthly Research Report
    Morgan Stanley's insightful thought leaders provide in-depth market commentary covering a range of topics including global equities, fixed income, monetary policy, and other relevant issues
    Read the Latest Report

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

107 Centennial St.
Ste 102A
La Plata, MD 20646
US
Direct:
(301) 645-9304(301) 645-9304
Toll-Free:
(800) 992-3194(800) 992-3194

Meet The Vaughan Group

About Gary T Vaughan

Gary was born and raised in La Plata. He graduated with a Bachelor’s degree from St. Mary’s College of Maryland and later received a Master’s degree from the University of Maryland.  His career as a financial advisor began in 1986 with a national firm in Annapolis. 
In 1991, Gary joined the Legg Mason office in Waldorf, Maryland, as their second employee.  Since then, Legg Mason was acquired by Smith Barney, which was then acquired by Morgan Stanley.  Through all of the name changes, the office has remained the same, focused on taking care of clients.  Gary’s daughter, Katie joined the practice in 2006, and The Vaughan Group was formed in 2008.
When not working, Gary enjoys reading, travel, gardening, skeet shooting and being with his family.  He is an active member of Sacred Heart Church, and still resides in Southern Maryland, with his wife of 50 years, Sharon.  Gary gets a great deal of satisfaction in crafting family financial roadmaps, and working with his clients.
Securities Agent: MI, WV, AL, NV, AZ, WA, DE, FL, DC, KY, MA, NC, NM, NY, MD, VT, TX, TN, SC, VA, RI, PA, OH, MN, GA, CA; BM/Supervisor; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative

About Katharine Vaughan Myers

Katie is a Financial Advisor and the Resident Manager at the La Plata, Maryland office.  She holds the designations of Certified Financial Planner and Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor. After graduating from Sweet Briar College with degrees in Mathematics & Economics, Katie joined the firm in July of 2006 as a Client Service Associate.  In January of 2008, Katie became a Financial Advisor, thus forming “The Vaughan Group” with her father Gary.
Katie enjoys working with individuals and families to help folks meet their financial goals.  From saving for a child or grandchild’s education to planning for one’s own retirement, with their combined experience, The Vaughan Group has been crafting family financial roadmaps for over 30 years.
Outside of the office, Katie is actively involved at church and at her children's schools. She and her husband Robert reside in Alexandria, Virginia with their daughter Allison and their son James. They are members of the Basilica of Saint Mary's.
Securities Agent: WY, VT, VI, OR, NH, OK, NJ, ME, LA, KS, ID, AK, IA, TX, MT, PR, AL, MO, WA, GA, WI, TN, CO, DC, PA, WV, CA, NM, NV, SD, NY, ND, SC, OH, NE, CT, VA, AR, MN, AZ, UT, MD, KY, MA, IN, HI, MS, IL, MI, RI, NC, DE, FL; BM/Supervisor; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative

About Phyllis Laidley

Phyllis Laidley joined the Vaughan Team in April of 2014, as a client service associate.  She enjoys working in the wealth management industry and particularly enjoys getting to know the amazing clients and servicing their needs.  Phyllis is the administrative backbone of the team, with a vast knowledge of account options, processes & protocols, and as such, ensures that clients have a wonderful administrative experience.
Phyllis is a wife and mother of four amazing daughters and three son-in-laws.  She is a proud nana to eight wonderful grandchildren.  She counts her blessings as she watches her family grow. She is also an active member of Sacred Heart Church in La Plata and loves to volunteer in the various outreach ministries.
Phyllis enjoys being a part of the Vaughan Group, as together they help craft family financial roadmaps for current and future clients.

About Corinne Baldus

Corinne Baldus joined the Vaughan team in July of 2021 and is the Team Administrator. Corinne is tasked with keeping the team organized & running smoothly as well as managing client communications. Outside of work Corinne’s passions are spending time with family and friends, and Figure Skating. She is an active member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in La Plata. Corinne enjoys working with the Vaughan Group and getting to know each client individually to better service their needs.
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.

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

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

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2Investors 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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3Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC is a registered Broker/Dealer, Member SIPC, and not a bank. Where appropriate, Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC has entered into arrangements with banks and other third parties to assist in offering certain banking related products and services.

Investment, insurance and annuity products offered through Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC are: NOT FDIC INSURED | MAY LOSE VALUE | NOT BANK GUARANTEED | NOT A BANK DEPOSIT | NOT INSURED BY ANY FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AGENCY

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4Investors 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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5Fixed Income investing entails credit risks and interest rate risks. When interest rates rise, bond prices generally fall.

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6An investment in an exchange-traded fund (ETF) involves risks similar to those of investing in a broadly based portfolio of equity securities traded on exchange in the relevant securities market, such as market fluctuations caused by such factors as economic and political developments, changes in interest rates and perceived trends in stock prices. The investment return and principal value of ETF investments will fluctuate, so that an investor’s ETF shares, if or when sold, may be worth more or less than the original cost.

Investors should carefully consider the investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses of an exchange-traded fund (ETF) before investing. The prospectus contains this and other information about the ETF. To obtain a prospectus, contact your Financial Advisor or visit the ETF company’s website. Please read the prospectus carefully before investing.

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

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9Insurance products are offered in conjunction with Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC’s licensed insurance agency affiliates.

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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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11Municipal 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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12When 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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13When 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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14The returns on a portfolio consisting primarily of Environmental, Social and Governance (“ESG”) aware investments may be lower or higher than a portfolio that is more diversified or where decisions are based solely on investment considerations. Because ESG criteria exclude some investments, investors may not be able to take advantage of the same opportunities or market trends as investors that do not use such criteria. Diversification does not guarantee a profit or protect against loss in a declining financial market.

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15Morgan 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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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)