Eli San Emeterio Morales is a Senior Financial Advisor at Merrill Lynch Wealth Management. He brings a distinct perspective shaped by his service in the United States Air Force, where he completed two enlistments including support of Operation Desert Shield/Storm and served as a radar technician for seven years. His military experience underscores his commitment to detail and precision, qualities he applies in helping clients manage and grow their assets. Eli directs wealth management strategy, asset allocation, manager evaluation, and liability management for a diverse client base that includes business owners, medical professionals, attorneys, tribal governments, and private foundations across Los Angeles, Orange, and San Bernardino counties.
Eli’s approach centers on partnering with clients through a rigorous planning process that reflects their goals and circumstances. He provides intergenerational wealth management and tax minimization strategies, often coordinating with clients’ attorneys and CPAs. He also offers discretionary portfolio management, utilizing personalized strategies that may include individual securities, Merrill Lynch model portfolios, and third-party investment options. His client focus areas include college education planning, family wealth management, legacy and liquidity planning, retirement income solutions, and socially responsible investing.
Eli holds a Personal Investment Advisor (PIA) designation and earned an associate degree from the Community College of the Air Force (CCAF). Outside of his professional duties, Eli is involved with charitable organizations such as Make-A-Wish and the Wounded Warrior Project, and actively supports his children’s sports teams. His personal interests include adventure sports, baseball, boating, football, golf, music, swimming, traveling, and spending time with his family.