With most clients coming to him after a previous advisory relationship, Michael builds on his reputation for helping successful women and men put their goals within reach and wealth to work. Proud to be a hands-on, ears-open advisor, Michael encourages frequent conversations with clients so that financial decisions can be made thoughtfully and without emotion.

Michael launched his career in 1999 and joined Merrill in 2017 after years spent at Smith Barney and Morgan Stanley. Today, many of his clients span generations of families headed by active and retired executives at power and other public companies, attorneys and others residing in New Jersey, Delaware, Pennsylvania and more than ten other states.

Asking about their long-term plans, everyday concerns, and desire to be involved in frequent financial decisions, Michael devotes significant time to appreciating “where clients are coming from, what makes them tick, and where they want to go.” He often asks,”What bought you here? What do you want money for? What did you like or not like about a previous advisor? What role would you like me to play?”

Once a client’s goals are identified and prioritized, Michael develops a customized strategy designed to enhance both sides of their balance sheet – assets and liabilities. In fact, a key reason he joined Merrill was the ability to offer clients access to credit and lending through Bank of America, N.A. In addition, with tax efficiency important to Michael and clients, he often coordinates with their CPAs and attorneys on matters of wealth transfer and tax-minimization strategies.

“My clients deserve an extensive, structured and systematic approach to managing wealth. If I can reduce their portfolio risk, improve their cash flow, optimize their use of credit, or deliver a solution that can help insulate their wealth, I’m providing real-world value – the kind I would expect from a financial advisor. It’s critical that distinct aspects of a client’s financial picture are always addressed. And I extend my focus to clients’ grown children – often helping to educate on developing wise financial habits,” Michael explains.

When it comes to investments, Michael blends his understanding of each client – their objectives, tolerance for risk, liquidity needs, investment timelines, and other personal preferences – with award-winning Merrill research before using carefully vetted investment managers he’s known for years to formulate their portfolios.

Away from the office, Michael’s free time revolves his family – his wife, Renee, and their three children – and an occasional round of golf near their home in Berlin, New Jersey. Michael holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics from Rutgers University.