My Story and Services

As your Financial Advisor, I 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, I can help you to preserve and grow your wealth. You will have access to highly seasoned and respected investment professionals, a premier trading and execution platform, and a full spectrum of investment choices.
Securities Agent: SC, MI, CT, MA, FL, DC, CO, VA, NY, IN, GA, VT, WI, OH, NM, PA, NE, MN, CA, AZ, TX, NC, DE, NV, KS, AK, RI, MD, KY, IL, ID, WA, AR, UT, TN, MT, ME, HI, AL, SD, OR, OK, NJ; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative
Check the background of Our Firm and Investment Professionals on FINRA's BrokerCheck.*

The Client Experience

My clients are much more than a portfolio of assets - they are families with active lives, who want an advisor who will provide them with thorough, unbiased, and carefully considered guidance on a full range of financial topics. When working with me, you will be treated with respect, care and confidentiality, and given an unwavering commintement to you and your family.

I work with a broad range of clients who need professional guidance from managing life-changing events and retirement planning to financing major acquisitions or achieving philanthropic goals. While all clients have unique personal and professional circumstances, they have one thing in common, securing and maintaining a solid financial future for themselves and for their families.

I use a disciplined four-step consultative process to uncover your most important goals, so that we may design and implement appropriate solutions to help plan for your future.

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    Listen & Understand

    We'll begin with an in-depth conversation where I'll listen carefully to understand what is important to you, your family, and your legacy. I learn about the values that shape your decisions and identify any challenges and circumstances unique to your situation.

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    Analyze & Assess

    Next, we'll review your current and future financial situation, determine the likelihood of reaching your goals and address any potential shortfalls or the impact of unexpected life events. In this step, we may also contact your CPA and estate attorney to understand your existing estate plan so we can help ensure the strategies we recommend are cohesive and fully coordinated.

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    Propose & Implement

    Here, we'll present a tailored wealth management plan with specific strategies designed to achieve your particular goals. Upon your approval, we'll set into motion a course of action that strives to align your values and vision.

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    Monitor & Adapt

    We'll oversee your performance towards your goal through ongoing calls and meetings. We may recommend adjustments over time, due to changing market conditions or changes in your circumstances to help keep you on track towards achieving your goals.

The Planning Process

To reach your goals, you need a wealth plan informed by a comprehensive assessment of your current budget and finances, clear objectives and sound advice that puts you in the center of the process. I use a four-step Goals Planning System (GPS) to create your personal roadmap towards financial achievement and protection.

  • Discover: Understand your values, objectives and quantify your goals.
  • Advise: Create a tailored wealth plan to help keep you on track.
  • Implement: Add value with tax-aware and cost-sensitive capabilities.
  • Track Progress: Know where you stand and adjust to your changing needs and the environment that changes around you. Using advanced technology and years of industry experience, allows me to develop a plan that includes not only investments, but also ways to help mitigate investment-related taxes, manage your everyday finances and address borrowing needs. Plus, the I will provide regular progress updates so you can see whether your savings and spending habits are in line with your goals – making it easier for you to stay the course.
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    LifeView - Intelligent Planning

    LifeView is a suite of planning tools that includes goal-specific analysis that I can use to create a realistic, holistic strategy that integrates the various aspects of an individual's financial life, including investments and cash management needs.

    Morgan 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<o:p></o:p>

    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 or review our Understanding Your Brokerage and Investment Advisory Relationships brochure available at https://www.morganstanley.com/wealth-relationshipwithms/pdfs/understandingyourrelationship.pdf

    Learn More About Building & Protecting Wealth
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    Goals Planning System

    The Goals Planning System (GPS) is an innovative platform built on Morgan Stanley's intellectual capital and capabilities, to provide clients with comprehensive investing and planning solutions for their individual goals.

    Learn More About GPS

DIGITAL CAPABILITIES

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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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    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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    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
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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

Location

2 North Tamiami Trail
Ste 1100
Sarasota, FL 34236
US
Direct:
(941) 364-7415(941) 364-7415

Meet My Team

About Thomas F. Gayer III

Born and raised in Barrington, Illinois, Thomas F. Gayer III has a rich and varied background in business and finance. He graduated with a Business degree from the University of Dayton in 1973, setting the stage for a successful career that spans over four decades.

Thomas started his professional journey as a buyer at JC Penney Co. in New York, where he worked for ten years, honing his expertise in purchasing and market trends. Following that, he ventured into entrepreneurship and became the owner of Euro-American Textiles, a well-regarded textile business in New York City. His entrepreneurial success laid a solid foundation for his transition into the world of finance.

For the past 25 years, Thomas has been a trusted financial advisor, helping clients navigate the complexities of wealth management and financial planning. He takes great pride in his deep industry knowledge and commitment to client success.

Beyond his professional work, Thomas is actively engaged in the arts and community. He is a member of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Museum of Modern Art, and Lincoln Center in New York City, reflecting his passion for culture and the arts. He also serves as a board member of Funtime Learning Academy, contributing to the educational growth of future generations, and is an active member of the Rotary Club, supporting local and international community initiatives.

With a diverse background and unwavering dedication to both his clients and community, Thomas is committed to providing skilled financial guidance while continuing to contribute to causes he is passionate about.
Securities Agent: MI, DE, RI, GA, FL, WA, ME, NJ, MD, HI, DC, AL, KS, CA, AZ, WI, VA, NE, KY, IN, IL, CT, CO, TN, SC, NY, MT, MN, MA, UT, OK, OH, NV, NM, TX, OR, AR, VT, SD, PA, NC; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative

About Christine Levine

With over two decades of experience in the financial services industry, Christine Levine is dedicated to helping clients navigate their financial journeys with confidence. As a Wealth Management Analyst at Morgan Stanley, Christine works closely with clients to develop personalized strategies that align with their unique financial goals, risk tolerance, and long-term aspirations.

Christine has held leadership roles at top financial institutions, including Janney Montgomery Scott, Morgan Stanley, Morgan Keegan & Company, and Credit Suisse First Boston. Her extensive background in branch operations, client service, and investment strategy has equipped her with a deep understanding of financial markets, regulatory compliance, and wealth management best practices.

Prior to her current role, Christine served as Branch Operations Manager at Janney Montgomery Scott, where she oversaw compliance, client support, and marketing initiatives, ensuring a seamless experience for both clients and advisors. She has also held positions as Complex Service Manager at Morgan Stanley and Operations Manager at Morgan Keegan & Company, where she managed operational efficiency, policy compliance, and client service excellence.

Christine holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Education from Baruch College (City University of New York) and maintains Series 7, 63, 66, and Series 9 & 10 supervisory licenses. Her commitment to financial education and client success drives her approach to wealth management, providing tailored solutions that empower individuals and families to achieve financial stability and growth.

Christine has been married to her husband, Adam Levine, for 26 years, and they have a 17-year-old son, Aidan, who is a junior at Cardinal Mooney High School and a dedicated baseball pitcher. Active in the Lakewood Ranch community, Christine and her family enjoy supporting local events and watching Aidan play baseball. They also share their home with their two beloved Teddy Bear dogs, Max and Milo.
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
A Simple Six-Step Retirement Checkup
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A Simple Six-Step Retirement Checkup

Checking in on your retirement plan may make a lot of sense, especially when market volatility arises.

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
Rational Investing in an Age of Uncertainty
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Rational Investing in an Age of Uncertainty

When it comes to investing, even the most savvy of us fall prey to bias and emotional trades. So what triggers should you watch for?

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
529 Plans: A Powerful Tool to Save for Education
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529 Plans: A Powerful Tool to Save for Education

Though education costs continue to climb, starting to save and invest early can make a difference.

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 Thomas F. Gayer IV today.
Check the background of our Firm and Investment Professionals on FINRA's BrokerCheck*.

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Awards Disclosures | Morgan Stanley
CRC 4665150 (8/2025)