David A Skid, CFA, CFP®
Managing Director, Wealth Management, Financial Advisor, Family Wealth Director
Phone:
(404) 266-6849(404) 266-6849
Vantage Wealth Management at Morgan Stanley
Our Mission Statement
Experience, intellectual capital and dedicated personal service to help you meet your life goals
About Us
Vantage: \van-tij\ (noun) giving a strategic advantage, commanding perspective and comprehensive view
As a designated Family Wealth Director team, our mission is to provide you with advisory services that include, and extend beyond, investment management. We take pride in being able to offer our clients access to Morgan Stanley's, and other third parties', skilled staff who focus on disciplines such as wealth transfer, asset protection strategies and philanthropic services.
Our goal is to understand your vision, preferences and unique circumstances so that we can work with you to develop an overall wealth management strategy that can help meet your needs.
We are proud to share that we have been recognized as a Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Management Team in Georgia for 2024. Thank you to all of our clients for their continued trust and confidence in our team.
Source: Forbes.com (2024) Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams ranking awarded in 2024. Each ranking was based on an evaluation process conducted by SHOOK Research LLC (the research company) in partnership with Forbes (the publisher). This evaluation process concluded in March of the previous year the award was issued, having commenced in March of the year before that. Neither Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC nor its Financial Advisors or Private Wealth Advisors paid a fee to SHOOK Research LLC, for placement on its rankings. This ranking is based on in-person and telephone due diligence meetings to evaluate each Financial Advisor qualitatively, a major component of a ranking algorithm that includes client retention, industry experience, review of compliance records, firm nominations, and quantitative criteria, including assets under management and revenue generated for their firms. Investment performance is not a criterion. Rankings are based on the opinions of SHOOK Research LLC and may not be representative of any one client's experience; investors must carefully choose the right Financial Advisor or team for their own situation and perform their own due diligence. These rankings are not indicative of the Financial Advisor's future performance. Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC is not affiliated with SHOOK Research LLC or Forbes. For more information, see www.SHOOKresearch.com. © 2024 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC.
Check the background of Our Firm and Investment Professionals on FINRA's BrokerCheck.*
Financial Planning for Today and Tomorrow
Creating a financial plan and adhering to it is no easy task; it involves discipline, accountability, and consistency. However, by partnering with a team and advisor who understands the complexities of your financial infrastructure and goals can help make this process easier. We approach financial planning with a client-focused lens, working as closely as possible with you and your other professionals to build a holistic strategy that integrates all aspects of your financial life. Along with the expertise of our team members and advisors, Morgan Stanley offers a world-class suite of technology that enables us to determine the best course of action. Check out a few of these resources below to learn what kind of capabilities they provide.
LifeView
LifeView is a comprehensive program that allows us to create a goal-specific analysis to determine how all your investments, assets, liabilities, goals, and future expenses interact with each other. Check out the Profile Form below to learn how to get started.
LifeView First Steps
Goals Planning System (GPS)
Morgan Stanley's Goals Planning System (GPS) is our way of ensuring we can discover, advise, implement, and track progress to your goals in a consistent and actionable manner. GPS is an intuitive platform that allows us to see whether or not you are on track to achieving your desired results.
Learn How We Plan For The Future
Retirement Planning
Retirement is one of life's greatest milestones, however it is no finish line. Ensuring that you will have enough to retire is a life-long journey and partnering with a team to help get you there is the first step. View our six-step retirement checklist below to see how you stack up.
Preparing For Retirement: A Checkup Guide
Tax-Planning Strategies
Taxes can be a huge burden on your potential gains and successfully navigating them with an informed strategy is the first step. We can work with your tax advisor to help create a disciplined approach that strives to minimize your tax obligations. Check out the Morgan Stanley tax preparation page below and let us know when you'd like to begin.
Learn What Morgan Stanley Can OfferBuilding a Legacy Starts Today
Wealth and estate planning is more than just your will. It is important to have a succession plan no matter your age to ensure your assets are passed down in a manner that is in line with what you want. Vantage Wealth Management is determined to help you create generational wealth and a legacy that you can be proud of. Check out the different sections below to learn more about the intricacies of estate planning and how they may help you.
You've Been Named as Your Parent's Executor: Now What?
If you’ve been named as your parent’s executor, you’ll find it’s a role with both emotional and administrative tasks. Here are some key guidelines.
Executor of a Will for Parents: A ChecklistWhy You May Need a Trust
You can’t take it with you, but through a trust, you can define how you want your life’s work and wealth to continue to benefit the people and causes you love and care for.
Legacy Trusts And Estate PlanningEstate Planning Essentials: 7 Key Steps
Creating an estate plan can help protect your wealth and prevent hardship for your heirs.
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. 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.
Estate Planning Essentials: A GuideMorgan 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 matters involving trust and estate planning and other legal matters.
Premium Tools To Help You Achieve Your Goals
As a Morgan Stanley and Vantage Wealth Management client you will have access to a comprehensive suite of premium technology offerings. These range from full spectrum security to ensure your data and information is protected to extensive planning and strategy management tools that can help you make decisions. Whatever your technology needs, Morgan Stanley has a potential solution.
Morgan Stanley Online
Morgan Stanley Online (MSO) allows you to manage and view your investments from anywhere. Monitor goal progression or make changes through the app on your phone or desktop computer.
Enroll In MSO Here
Total Wealth View
Total Wealth View allows you to see your entire financial picture. Add your external assets, home value, and bank accounts to see your entire net worth stack up.
Learn More About Total Wealth View
Premium Security
Protecting you and your family is our highest priority. We know how sensitive your information is and are constantly working to protect it.
Watch This Video To Learn More
Our Cybersecurity Resources
Digital Vault, eDelivery, eAuthorization, and eSign allow for only you and your delegates to have access to sensitive documents such as wills, account statements, and more.
Watch This Video To Learn More
Total Tax 365
Taxes can act as a massive drag on your investment returns. Luckily, our team and Morgan Stanley can implement efficient strategies to help you keep more of what you earn. Take a look at the video below to learn more about how we do this.
Watch Here
Portfolio Risk Platform
The Morgan Stanley Portfolio Risk Platform allows us to see unseen opportunities and potential risks within your portfolio. The Vantage Wealth Management Group leverages this technology to help manage your assets with multiple what-if scenarios.
Watch HereKeeping You Financially Educated
Staying on top of the markets can be a massive challenge on its own. Luckily Morgan Stanley provides a plethora of resources to help guide your thoughts and investment ideas. Check out a few of our resources below and let us know if you have any questions about the material.
GIC Weekly
View the top ideas our strategists and thought leaders are talking about curated on a weekly basis.
Read the Latest GIC Weekly HereGIC: On The Markets
Our investment team is constantly working hard to bring you ideas and recent events that may be cause for market catalysts. Read about the themes our investment committee is thinking about below.
Check Out On The Markets Here
Morgan Stanley Podcasts
Morgan Stanley offers several award-winning podcasts that cover hundreds of topics from personal finance to moonshot ideas. Give them a listen at the link below.
Listen Here
2025 Global Macroeconomics 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.
Read the Report Here
2025 Investment Outlook: Threading the Needle
A stable global economy is likely to benefit equity and fixed-income markets, though increased uncertainty around U.S. tariffs and immigration policy could jeopardize markets' recent gains.
Read More Here
Key Investment Themes for 2025
At Morgan Stanley, we offer expert consideration on relevant themes, including the future of energy, the evolving world of AI, deglobalization and longevity – and how these factors could impact investing. Here’s an in-depth look at what to consider when navigating today’s markets and how to prepare for investment opportunities in 2025.
Learn More HereLocation
3280 Peachtree Rd NE
Suite 1900
Atlanta, GA 30305
US
Direct:
(404) 266-6849(404) 266-6849
Meet Vantage Wealth Management
Benjamin Portman, CFP®
Senior Vice President, Wealth Management, Financial Advisor, Senior Portfolio Management Director
Phone:
(404) 266-6847(404) 266-6847
Zak Koffler, CFP®
Vice President, Wealth Management, Financial Advisor, Vice President, Wealth Management, Insurance Planning Director
Phone:
(404) 365-3526(404) 365-3526
Vice President, Wealth Management, Financial Advisor, Financial Planning Specialist
Phone:
(404) 266-6805(404) 266-6805
Melissa Kaufman-Lovell
FIrst Vice President, Group Director
Phone:
(404) 266-6817(404) 266-6817
Joanne M. Hughes
Vice President, Wealth Management Associate, Financial Planning Associate
Phone:
(404) 266-6829(404) 266-6829
Connor Esposito
Senior Registered Client Service Associate
Phone:
(404) 266-6041(404) 266-6041
Allie Berk
Registered Client Associate
Phone:
(404) 266-6897(404) 266-6897
About David A Skid
David is a Managing Director and Financial Advisor with Vantage Wealth Management at Morgan Stanley. David works in investment strategies and comprehensive financial planning for high net worth and multi-generational families encompassing retirement, estate planning, liability/risk management, and wealth transfer.
David served as Co-Chair for Morgan Stanley’s National Financial Advisor Advisory Council from 2019-2023. The Council acts as liaison between their colleagues and Senior Management, creating an open two-way communication channel to discuss and provide feedback and insight on key initiatives and enhancements within Morgan Stanley.
David holds a Master of Taxation and an MBA with a concentration in Finance from Georgia State University. He graduated Magna Cum Laude from The George Washington University with a Bachelor of Accountancy. David is a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA®) and Certified Financial Planner (CFP®). David is a member of the CFA® institute and the Atlanta Society of Financial Analysts.
David has been active in the Atlanta community. He has been a member of the Jewish Federation’s National Young Leadership Cabinet, chairman of Temple Sinai’s Investment Committee for the Endowment Fund, and a member of the board of the Jewish Home Life Communities. David and his wife, Johanna, have a daughter who attends the University of Georgia.
David’s Awards & Accolades:
Forbes America's Top Wealth Advisors | 2024
Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors | 2019 – 2024
Barron's Top 1,200 Financial Advisors: State-by-State | 2020 – 2024
Source: Forbes.com (2024). Forbes America's Top Wealth Advisors ranking awarded in 2024. Each ranking was based on an evaluation process conducted by SHOOK Research LLC (the research company) in partnership with Forbes (the publisher). This evaluation process concluded in March of the year the award was issued having commenced in March of the previous year. Neither Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC nor its Financial Advisors or Private Wealth Advisors paid a fee to SHOOK Research LLC to obtain or use the ratings. These rankings are based on in-person and telephone due diligence meetings to evaluate each advisor qualitatively, a major component of a ranking algorithm that includes client retention, industry experience, review of compliance records, firm nominations, and quantitative criteria, including assets under management and revenue generated for their firms. Investment performance is not a criterion. Rankings are based on the opinions of SHOOK Research LLC and these rankings may not be representative of any one client’s experience. These rankings are not indicative of the Financial Advisor’s future performance. Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC is not affiliated with SHOOK Research or Forbes. For more information, see www.SHOOKresearch.com.
©2022 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC.
Source: Forbes.com (2019 - 2024). Forbes Best-In- State Wealth Advisors ranking awarded in 2019 - 2024. Each ranking was based on an evaluation process conducted by SHOOK Research LLC (the research company) in partnership with Forbes (the publisher). This evaluation process concluded in June of the previous year the award was issued having commenced in June of the year before that. Neither Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC nor its Financial Advisors or Private Wealth Advisors paid a fee to SHOOK Research LLC to obtain or use the ranking. This ranking is based on in-person and telephone due diligence meetings to evaluate each advisor qualitatively, a major component of a ranking algorithm that includes client retention, industry experience, review of compliance records, firm nominations, and quantitative criteria, including assets under management and revenue generated for their firms. Investment performance is not a criterion. Rankings are based on the opinions of SHOOK Research LLC and this ranking may not be representative of any one client’s experience. These rankings are not indicative of the Financial Advisor’s future performance. Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC is not affiliated with SHOOK Research LLC or Forbes. For more information, see www.SHOOKresearch.com.
©2022 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC.
Source: Barrons.com (2020 - 2024). Barron's Top 1,200 Financial Advisors: State-by-State ranking awarded in 2020 - 2024. Each ranking was determined based on an evaluation process conducted by Barron's which concluded in September of the previous year the award was issued having commenced in September of the year before that. Neither Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC nor its Financial Advisors or Private Wealth Advisors paid a fee to Barron's to obtain or use the ranking. This ranking is based on in-person and telephone due diligence meetings to evaluate each advisor qualitatively, a major component of a ranking algorithm that includes client retention, industry experience, review of compliance records, firm nominations, and quantitative criteria, including assets under management and revenue generated for their firms. Investment performance is not a criterion. Rankings are based on the opinions of Barron's and this ranking may not be representative of any one client’s experience. These rankings are not indicative of the Financial Advisor’s future performance. Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC is not affiliated with Barron's. Barron’s is a registered trademark of Dow Jones & Company, L.P. All rights reserved.
©2022 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC
David served as Co-Chair for Morgan Stanley’s National Financial Advisor Advisory Council from 2019-2023. The Council acts as liaison between their colleagues and Senior Management, creating an open two-way communication channel to discuss and provide feedback and insight on key initiatives and enhancements within Morgan Stanley.
David holds a Master of Taxation and an MBA with a concentration in Finance from Georgia State University. He graduated Magna Cum Laude from The George Washington University with a Bachelor of Accountancy. David is a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA®) and Certified Financial Planner (CFP®). David is a member of the CFA® institute and the Atlanta Society of Financial Analysts.
David has been active in the Atlanta community. He has been a member of the Jewish Federation’s National Young Leadership Cabinet, chairman of Temple Sinai’s Investment Committee for the Endowment Fund, and a member of the board of the Jewish Home Life Communities. David and his wife, Johanna, have a daughter who attends the University of Georgia.
David’s Awards & Accolades:
Forbes America's Top Wealth Advisors | 2024
Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors | 2019 – 2024
Barron's Top 1,200 Financial Advisors: State-by-State | 2020 – 2024
Source: Forbes.com (2024). Forbes America's Top Wealth Advisors ranking awarded in 2024. Each ranking was based on an evaluation process conducted by SHOOK Research LLC (the research company) in partnership with Forbes (the publisher). This evaluation process concluded in March of the year the award was issued having commenced in March of the previous year. Neither Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC nor its Financial Advisors or Private Wealth Advisors paid a fee to SHOOK Research LLC to obtain or use the ratings. These rankings are based on in-person and telephone due diligence meetings to evaluate each advisor qualitatively, a major component of a ranking algorithm that includes client retention, industry experience, review of compliance records, firm nominations, and quantitative criteria, including assets under management and revenue generated for their firms. Investment performance is not a criterion. Rankings are based on the opinions of SHOOK Research LLC and these rankings may not be representative of any one client’s experience. These rankings are not indicative of the Financial Advisor’s future performance. Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC is not affiliated with SHOOK Research or Forbes. For more information, see www.SHOOKresearch.com.
©2022 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC.
Source: Forbes.com (2019 - 2024). Forbes Best-In- State Wealth Advisors ranking awarded in 2019 - 2024. Each ranking was based on an evaluation process conducted by SHOOK Research LLC (the research company) in partnership with Forbes (the publisher). This evaluation process concluded in June of the previous year the award was issued having commenced in June of the year before that. Neither Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC nor its Financial Advisors or Private Wealth Advisors paid a fee to SHOOK Research LLC to obtain or use the ranking. This ranking is based on in-person and telephone due diligence meetings to evaluate each advisor qualitatively, a major component of a ranking algorithm that includes client retention, industry experience, review of compliance records, firm nominations, and quantitative criteria, including assets under management and revenue generated for their firms. Investment performance is not a criterion. Rankings are based on the opinions of SHOOK Research LLC and this ranking may not be representative of any one client’s experience. These rankings are not indicative of the Financial Advisor’s future performance. Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC is not affiliated with SHOOK Research LLC or Forbes. For more information, see www.SHOOKresearch.com.
©2022 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC.
Source: Barrons.com (2020 - 2024). Barron's Top 1,200 Financial Advisors: State-by-State ranking awarded in 2020 - 2024. Each ranking was determined based on an evaluation process conducted by Barron's which concluded in September of the previous year the award was issued having commenced in September of the year before that. Neither Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC nor its Financial Advisors or Private Wealth Advisors paid a fee to Barron's to obtain or use the ranking. This ranking is based on in-person and telephone due diligence meetings to evaluate each advisor qualitatively, a major component of a ranking algorithm that includes client retention, industry experience, review of compliance records, firm nominations, and quantitative criteria, including assets under management and revenue generated for their firms. Investment performance is not a criterion. Rankings are based on the opinions of Barron's and this ranking may not be representative of any one client’s experience. These rankings are not indicative of the Financial Advisor’s future performance. Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC is not affiliated with Barron's. Barron’s is a registered trademark of Dow Jones & Company, L.P. All rights reserved.
©2022 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC
Securities Agent: SC, AL, OH, DC, CT, AR, RI, KS, IL, WY, VA, TX, NM, UT, MT, GA, FL, WA, NY, MO, LA, DE, CA, TN, NE, ID, CO, AZ, OR, MI, PA, NV, NC, ME, MA, IA, NJ, MD, IN, HI; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative; Managed Futures
NMLS#: 1253013
NMLS#: 1253013
About Benjamin Portman
Ben is a Senior Vice President and Financial Advisor with Vantage Wealth Management at Morgan Stanley. Ben works in investment and wealth planning for high net worth and multigenerational families, helping clients minimize the time and stress of managing their wealth, encompassing retirement income, philanthropy, trust services, liability management, insurance review and wealth transfer.
Since joining Morgan Stanley in 2008, Ben has earned the firm’s designation of Portfolio Management Director, Financial Planning Specialist, and is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™. Ben previously was a Teach for America corps member, where he taught math, science and reading. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics from Bucknell University and a Master of Education from Arizona State University.
Ben is involved in his community, serving as the Advisory Board Chair for Teach for America-Metro Atlanta. Previously, Ben served as the board chair for Teach on Project and It’s the Journey. An avid cook, Ben appeared on the Food Network and previously ran a philanthropic supper club out of his home. Ben and his wife, Whitney, live in Brookwood Hills with their twin daughters and dog.
Ben’s Awards & Accolades:
Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors | 2024
Forbes Top Next-Gen Advisors Best-in-State | 2022-2023
Source: Forbes.com (2024). Forbes Best-In- State Wealth Advisors ranking awarded in 2024. Each ranking was based on an evaluation process conducted by SHOOK Research LLC (the research company) in partnership with Forbes (the publisher). This evaluation process concluded in June of the previous year the award was issued having commenced in June of the year before that. Neither Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC nor its Financial Advisors or Private Wealth Advisors paid a fee to SHOOK Research LLC to obtain or use the ranking. This ranking is based on in-person and telephone due diligence meetings to evaluate each advisor qualitatively, a major component of a ranking algorithm that includes client retention, industry experience, review of compliance records, firm nominations, and quantitative criteria, including assets under management and revenue generated for their firms. Investment performance is not a criterion. Rankings are based on the opinions of SHOOK Research LLC and this ranking may not be representative of any one client’s experience. These rankings are not indicative of the Financial Advisor’s future performance. Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC is not affiliated with SHOOK Research LLC or Forbes. For more information, see www.SHOOKresearch.com.
©2022 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC.
Source: Forbes.com (2022 - 2023). Forbes America’s Top Next-Gen Wealth Advisors & Top Next-Gen Wealth Advisors Best-In-State ranking awarded in 2022 - 2023. Each ranking was based on an evaluation process conducted by SHOOK Research LLC (the research company) in partnership with Forbes (the publisher). This evaluation process concluded in March of the year the award was issued having commenced in March of the previous year. Neither Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC nor its Financial Advisors or Private Wealth Advisors paid a fee to SHOOK Research LLC to obtain or use the ratings. These rankings are based on in-person and telephone due diligence meetings to evaluate each advisor qualitatively, a major component of a ranking algorithm that includes client retention, industry experience, review of compliance records, firm nominations, and quantitative criteria, including assets under management and revenue generated for their firms. Investment performance is not a criterion. Rankings are based on the opinions of SHOOK Research LLC and these rankings may not be representative of any one client’s experience. These rankings are not indicative of the Financial Advisor’s future performance. Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC is not affiliated with SHOOK Research or Forbes. For more information, see www.SHOOKresearch.com.
©2022 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC.
Since joining Morgan Stanley in 2008, Ben has earned the firm’s designation of Portfolio Management Director, Financial Planning Specialist, and is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™. Ben previously was a Teach for America corps member, where he taught math, science and reading. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics from Bucknell University and a Master of Education from Arizona State University.
Ben is involved in his community, serving as the Advisory Board Chair for Teach for America-Metro Atlanta. Previously, Ben served as the board chair for Teach on Project and It’s the Journey. An avid cook, Ben appeared on the Food Network and previously ran a philanthropic supper club out of his home. Ben and his wife, Whitney, live in Brookwood Hills with their twin daughters and dog.
Ben’s Awards & Accolades:
Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors | 2024
Forbes Top Next-Gen Advisors Best-in-State | 2022-2023
Source: Forbes.com (2024). Forbes Best-In- State Wealth Advisors ranking awarded in 2024. Each ranking was based on an evaluation process conducted by SHOOK Research LLC (the research company) in partnership with Forbes (the publisher). This evaluation process concluded in June of the previous year the award was issued having commenced in June of the year before that. Neither Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC nor its Financial Advisors or Private Wealth Advisors paid a fee to SHOOK Research LLC to obtain or use the ranking. This ranking is based on in-person and telephone due diligence meetings to evaluate each advisor qualitatively, a major component of a ranking algorithm that includes client retention, industry experience, review of compliance records, firm nominations, and quantitative criteria, including assets under management and revenue generated for their firms. Investment performance is not a criterion. Rankings are based on the opinions of SHOOK Research LLC and this ranking may not be representative of any one client’s experience. These rankings are not indicative of the Financial Advisor’s future performance. Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC is not affiliated with SHOOK Research LLC or Forbes. For more information, see www.SHOOKresearch.com.
©2022 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC.
Source: Forbes.com (2022 - 2023). Forbes America’s Top Next-Gen Wealth Advisors & Top Next-Gen Wealth Advisors Best-In-State ranking awarded in 2022 - 2023. Each ranking was based on an evaluation process conducted by SHOOK Research LLC (the research company) in partnership with Forbes (the publisher). This evaluation process concluded in March of the year the award was issued having commenced in March of the previous year. Neither Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC nor its Financial Advisors or Private Wealth Advisors paid a fee to SHOOK Research LLC to obtain or use the ratings. These rankings are based on in-person and telephone due diligence meetings to evaluate each advisor qualitatively, a major component of a ranking algorithm that includes client retention, industry experience, review of compliance records, firm nominations, and quantitative criteria, including assets under management and revenue generated for their firms. Investment performance is not a criterion. Rankings are based on the opinions of SHOOK Research LLC and these rankings may not be representative of any one client’s experience. These rankings are not indicative of the Financial Advisor’s future performance. Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC is not affiliated with SHOOK Research or Forbes. For more information, see www.SHOOKresearch.com.
©2022 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC.
Securities Agent: NY, WY, IN, ME, KS, HI, TN, MI, ID, AR, NV, NC, LA, CO, AL, SC, OH, DC, CA, WA, TX, NE, DE, OR, NM, NJ, MT, MA, UT, MO, MD, IL, IA, GA, FL, CT, AZ, VA, RI, PA; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative; Transactional Futures/Commodities; Managed Futures
NMLS#: 1275702
NMLS#: 1275702
About Zak Koffler
Zak is Vice President and Financial Advisor with Vantage Wealth Management at Morgan Stanley. Zak concentrates in complex investment and financial planning strategies for high net worth families.
Since joining Morgan Stanley in 2013, Zak has earned the firm’s designation of Portfolio Manager, is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, and a member of the Financial Planning Association. Zak began his financial services career at UBS Wealth Management in 2009. He has a Certificate in Financial Planning from the University of Georgia and a Bachelors of Business Administration with a concentration in Finance from Georgia State University.
Zak is an Atlanta native and is very active in the community. He is currently on the Southeast Regional Board for the Anti-Defamation League. Past involvements include Jewish Family and Career Services, Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta, Legacy Heritage Fund: OnBoard, SOJOURN, The Trevor Project, The Community Action Center and the Foundation for Financial Planning. Zak and his husband Luka live in Decatur with their son, Pax, and two dogs, Helo, and Husker.
Since joining Morgan Stanley in 2013, Zak has earned the firm’s designation of Portfolio Manager, is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, and a member of the Financial Planning Association. Zak began his financial services career at UBS Wealth Management in 2009. He has a Certificate in Financial Planning from the University of Georgia and a Bachelors of Business Administration with a concentration in Finance from Georgia State University.
Zak is an Atlanta native and is very active in the community. He is currently on the Southeast Regional Board for the Anti-Defamation League. Past involvements include Jewish Family and Career Services, Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta, Legacy Heritage Fund: OnBoard, SOJOURN, The Trevor Project, The Community Action Center and the Foundation for Financial Planning. Zak and his husband Luka live in Decatur with their son, Pax, and two dogs, Helo, and Husker.
Securities Agent: NE, IL, VA, HI, DC, AR, PA, OR, MA, WY, CT, TX, NY, DE, CA, NV, IA, GA, FL, CO, NM, MO, LA, KS, UT, SC, MT, MI, MD, WA, TN, NJ, AL, OH, NC, IN, ID, AZ, RI, ME; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative
NMLS#: 1416397
NMLS#: 1416397
About Karlie Skidmore
Karlie is a Financial Advisor with Vantage Wealth Management at Morgan Stanley. Karlie focuses on comprehensive financial planning for high net worth families, serving as a central point of contact, and helping to connect and leverage the resources of Morgan Stanley and clients’ other professionals.
In 2008, Karlie began her career in the financial services industry and joined Morgan Stanley in 2012, initially working in operations and management roles prior to becoming a Financial Advisor. Karlie is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and has also earned the firm’s designation of Financial Planning Specialist.
Karlie is active in the Atlanta community with the Georgia Transplant Foundation and is a member of Our Lady of the Assumption Women’s Circle. Karlie grew up in Kennesaw, GA and received a Finance degree from Troy University in Alabama, where she played soccer on an athletic scholarship. Outside of the office, she enjoys running, walking and yoga. Karlie resides in in Brookhaven, GA with her husband, Nathan, and their daughter, Savannah.
In 2008, Karlie began her career in the financial services industry and joined Morgan Stanley in 2012, initially working in operations and management roles prior to becoming a Financial Advisor. Karlie is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and has also earned the firm’s designation of Financial Planning Specialist.
Karlie is active in the Atlanta community with the Georgia Transplant Foundation and is a member of Our Lady of the Assumption Women’s Circle. Karlie grew up in Kennesaw, GA and received a Finance degree from Troy University in Alabama, where she played soccer on an athletic scholarship. Outside of the office, she enjoys running, walking and yoga. Karlie resides in in Brookhaven, GA with her husband, Nathan, and their daughter, Savannah.
Securities Agent: HI, UT, NE, IA, AR, TN, PA, IL, ID, AL, WA, VT, TX, MI, CA, WY, OH, NC, DC, VA, NJ, NH, MA, LA, AZ, MO, ME, IN, GA, CO, OR, NY, NM, FL, DE, SC, CT, RI, MT, MD, NV, KS; BM/Supervisor; General Securities Representative; Investment Advisor Representative; Transactional Futures/Commodities; Managed Futures
NMLS#: 2211630
NMLS#: 2211630
About Melissa Kaufman-Lovell
Melissa is a First Vice President and Group Director with Vantage Wealth Management at Morgan Stanley. She began her career with the firm in 1989 and is a founding member of our team. Melissa’s extensive industry and product knowledge aid her in cultivating relationships with new and existing clients. As Group Director, she helps shape the vision of client service and business operations within our team.
A graduate of the University of Memphis, Melissa earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Finance. She lives in Brookhaven with her husband, their children, Celia and Griffin, and an English Springer Spaniel named Beau. Melissa attends and volunteers at Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic Church. She also volunteers at Marist School and the Atlanta Union Mission.
A graduate of the University of Memphis, Melissa earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Finance. She lives in Brookhaven with her husband, their children, Celia and Griffin, and an English Springer Spaniel named Beau. Melissa attends and volunteers at Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic Church. She also volunteers at Marist School and the Atlanta Union Mission.
About Joanne M. Hughes
Joanne Hughes is a Vice President and Wealth Management Associate with Vantage Wealth Management at Morgan Stanley. She began her career in the financial services industry in 1999 and has worked with our team at Morgan Stanley since 2007. In addition to consistently delivering a positive client experience, Joanne serves as a point of contact on a wide array of services, with a specific focus on implementing customized equity and fixed income portfolios.
Joanne grew up in Toronto and graduated from the University of Western Ontario with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History. She resides in Midtown and enjoys working out, travel and spending time with family and friends.
Joanne grew up in Toronto and graduated from the University of Western Ontario with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History. She resides in Midtown and enjoys working out, travel and spending time with family and friends.
About Connor Esposito
Connor is a Senior Registered Client Service Associate, focused on enhancing the client experience and providing administrative services to our team’s clients. He began his career at Morgan Stanley as a Wealth Management Intern. Prior to his current role, he served as a Virtual Engagement Associate where he leveraged financial planning tools on behalf of Financial Advisors.
Connor holds a Bachelor of Science in Finance from The University of Alabama. Outside of work, Connor enjoys reading, golfing and spending time with friends and family.
Connor holds a Bachelor of Science in Finance from The University of Alabama. Outside of work, Connor enjoys reading, golfing and spending time with friends and family.
About Allie Berk
Allie is a Registered Client Service Associate. She focuses on providing exemplary client service and administrative support to our team's clients. An Atlanta native, she attended the University of Alabama, where she obtained a Bachelor of Science in Finance. She earned an athletic scholarship to play soccer at Alabama, and the team won an SEC championship during her collegiate career. Outside of work, Allie enjoys running, travelling and spending time with friends and family.
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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
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
Family
Creating customized financial strategies for the challenges that today’s families face.
- Estate Planning Strategies
- 529 Plans / Education Savings Planning
- Long Term Care Insurance
- Special Needs Planning
- Trust Services
Are You Prepared for Tax Day?
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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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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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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.
Ready to start a conversation? Contact Vantage Wealth Management today.
Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. (CFP Board) owns the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, and CFP® (with plaque design) in the United States, which it authorizes use of by individuals who successfully complete CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements.
1Morgan Stanley 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
2Morgan 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.
3When 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.
4Insurance products are offered in conjunction with Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC’s licensed insurance agency affiliates.
5Morgan 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.
6Morgan 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.
7Insurance products are offered in conjunction with Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC’s licensed insurance agency affiliates.
8Morgan 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.
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
1Morgan 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
2Morgan 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.
3When 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.
4Insurance products are offered in conjunction with Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC’s licensed insurance agency affiliates.
5Morgan 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.
6Morgan 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.
7Insurance products are offered in conjunction with Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC’s licensed insurance agency affiliates.
8Morgan 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.
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)
