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Welcome to PPS Advisors

Providing Wisdom in Wealth Management

Get To Know Us

At PPS Advisors, Every Relationship Starts With

An Understanding of Your Aspirations

Whether you’re thinking about your retirement, educating your children or grandchildren, accumulating or preserving wealth, we are here to help you achieve your goals. It all starts with a foundational blueprint to put you on the right path.

For Over 30 Years, We’ve Remained Committed To:

Fiduciary Management

We provide objective recommendations that are for your best interest.

Hands-On, Tailored Solutions

You deserve customized strategies to balance your life and prepare for the future.

Trust and Empathy

Our focus as a firm is committed to building personal relationships and offering a personal touch.

Our Priority Is To Meet Your Overall Financial Objectives

We want to learn more about your personal situation, identify your dreams, pinpoint your goals and work with you to make them a reality. Together, we’ll work to design your path for the future.


Here’s What You Can Expect:


Not Sure Where To Start?

Connect With Us

Applying Our Years of Experience to

Your Entire Financial Picture

Get To Know Your Advisors

At PPS Advisors

Lawrence Passaretti Photo

Lawrence Passaretti

Founder, Chief Executive Officer, Chief Investment Officer
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Lawrence Passaretti

Lawrence Passaretti

Founder, Chief Executive Officer, Chief Investment Officer

P: (631) 870-8270 ext. 362
F: (631) 439-4604
E: lpassaretti@ppsadvisors.com


Within his roles at PPS Advisors, Lawrence works with the investment team, providing allocation strategies according to the macroeconomic environment. He also remains active with a portion of our client base as an advisor, cultivating ongoing relationships. Overall, he enjoys helping clients reach their goals and objectives while providing guidance with life issues along the path to financial security.

Prior to joining AXA Advisors, LLC in 1986, Lawrence was a licensed investment counselor for a major Wall Street firm. During that time, he was elected to the AXA Hall of Fame. Lawrence has also been the recipient of many other distinguished awards.

Outside of work, Lawrence enjoys sports, chasing his grandchildren, and caring for his family and wife, Kate, whom he’s been married to for over 40 years.

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Gus Catanzaro Photo

Gus Catanzaro

Chief Operating Officer
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 Gus Catanzaro

Gus Catanzaro

Chief Operating Officer

P: (631) 870-8270 ext. 363
F: (631) 439-4604
E: gcatanzaro@ppsadvisors.com


As Chief Operating Officer for PPS Advisors, Gus interacts with clients and oversees the firm to maintain high-quality service, advice and technology. Whether in person, over Zoom or the phone, he connects with individuals to review and monitor their plans, portfolios and goals. Gus finds it rewarding to be able to help people develop a plan to achieve their financial goals. Over the years, he’s seen a growing need for people to be financially educated and he is passionate about helping. 

A graduate of Hofstra University, Gus received his MBA in Finance and a BBA in Accounting. He brings over 30 years of financial experience, which includes corporate finance, accounting and management. He spent 17 years with AXA Advisors as a Vice President at their Melville Long Island branch office and received a Certificate in Retirement Planning from the prestigious Wharton School of Business. Today, Gus serves on the American Portfolios Advisor Council (APAC), which acts as a liaison between AP and its independent advisors, with the purpose of always improving services and technology to better serve all of our clients.

Outside of the office, Gus loves to cook, read about history, and golf. He also volunteers with local soup kitchens and has been on the board of an animal rescue.

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Colette Frey-Bitzas, CFP®,  BFA™  Photo

Colette Frey-Bitzas, CFP®, BFA™

Director of Financial Planning
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Colette Frey-Bitzas

Colette Frey-Bitzas

Director of Financial Planning

CFP® Registered Representative

P: (631) 870-8270 ext. 291
F: (631) 439-4604
E: cbitzas@ppsadvisors.com


Colette joined PPS Advisors in 2010 as The Director of Financial Planning. She is passionate about helping her clients grow and protect their wealth. She develops strategic financial plans and offers wisdom in wealth management through education and self-empowerment.

 Colette received her Bachelor of Science degree in Finance and Economics from St. John’s University in 1983 and the certification as a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional in 1990 by meeting the education, examination, experience, and ethics standards established by the Certified Financial Planners Board of Standards (CFP® Boards).  Furthering her education, she went on to receive an MBA degree in International Finance and Business from Hofstra University in 1991. Colette is also an approved New York State Insurance Department monitor and instructor, was an adjunct professor at Molloy College and is actively involved in the local community. In addition, Colette continues to expand her knowledge and has acquired her designations as a Behavioral Finance Analyst as well as her Certified Long Term Care specialist.

 Colette is the Second Vice President on The Board of Directors for The Three Village Chamber of Commerce and co-chair on The Executive Board for The Three Village Business Advisory Council. Colette is also a member of the Stony Brook Hospital Compliance & Audit Committee of the Governing Body.  During her free time, she enjoys golfing, exercising, and participating in outdoor activities. She has three adult children and three grandchildren.

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Patrick Passaretti, CFP® Photo

Patrick Passaretti, CFP®

Investment Advisor Representative
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Patrick Passaretti

Patrick Passaretti

Investment Advisor Representative

P: (631) 870-8270 ext. 721
F: (631) 439-4604
E: Ppassaretti@ppsadvisors.com


Patrick Passaretti, a CERTIFIED FINANICAL PLANNER®  professional, helps clients in developing financial plans that are aligned with their goals. He especially enjoys assisting clients with the organization of their finances in order to simplify things. Patrick believes automating one’s finances is the easiest way to grow wealth. Working with clients over the years has brought him a lot of joy, especially when he sees them hit major milestones. It is even reassuring to have clients overcome challenges by being better prepared. 

Patrick earned his M.B.A. in Finance from the Zarb School of Business at Hofstra University in December 2015. He earned his Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance from the Haub School of Business at Saint Joseph’s University in Philadelphia, PA. Patrick currently holds his Series 7 and 66 securities licenses as well as being a licensed life insurance agent. Additionally, he is part of APAC, a council that acts as a liaison with the purpose of always improving services and technology to better serve our clients. 

Outside of work, Patrick enjoys spending time with his wife and family. This has helped him realize how lucky he is to be part of a family firm and has made it a goal of his to ensure the group continues to prosper for years to come. Patrick also loves boating, wakeboarding, skiing, snowboarding, and everything action-sports-related. 

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Nicole Wood, CFP® Photo

Nicole Wood, CFP®

Investment Advisor Representative
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Nicole Wood

Nicole Wood

Investment Advisor Representative

P: (631) 870-8270 ext. 368
F: (631) 439-4604
E: nwood@ppsadvisors.com


As a CERTIFIED FINANICAL PLANNER® professional, Nicole enjoys helping people at all stages of their lives realize, plan out, and achieve their goals. She helps establish a path for success for our clients and execute it along the way in a deeply fulfilling manner. Most of Nicole’s time is spent connecting with clients over the phone, by email or in-person about where they’re at in their current plan and how to make adjustments in order to achieve the goals they have in mind. 

Nicole has worked in wealth management and financial planning since graduating from college in 2014. She joined PPS Advisors in 2015, having worked as a non-registered sales assistant at a wealth management firm previously. In addition to her industry experience, Nicole is a member of the APAC (American Portfolios Advisor Council) Next Gen Committee, the FPA Women in Finance, and the Seed Savers Exchange, which is committed to preserving heirloom seeds for home gardens. 

A graduate of the Honors College of Hofstra University, Nicole earned her Bachelor of Business Administration degree in Finance and Economics from the Zarb School of Business. In addition to being a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ she holds her Series 7, 63 and 66 securities licenses, as well as being a licensed life insurance agent.

When she isn’t working, Nicole enjoys her life in East Setauket with her husband, Jim. She can be found kayaking Long Island’s north shore harbors, growing and preserving fruit and vegetables from her home garden, or practicing her passion of being a lifelong equestrian.

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Brad Cooke Photo

Brad Cooke

Investment Advisor Representative
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Brad Cooke

Brad Cooke

Investment Advisor Representative

P: (631) 870-8270 ext. 719
F: (631) 439-4604
E: bcooke@ppsadvisors.com

Within his role, Bradley works closely with the Chief Investments Officer and is responsible for all aspects of the investment management process of the firm. From asset allocation to risk management and investment research, he oversees the firm’s in-house investment strategies and monitors performance. Bradley is happy when he can help clients achieve their short- and long-term goals, worry less about their finances and sleep well at night. Ultimately, helping clients work toward their financial independence enables him to work toward his own career goals and feel accomplished each day. 

Bradley earned his MBA from the Feliciano School of Business at Montclair State University in 2015, obtained his Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance from the Haub School of Business at Saint Joseph’s University in Philadelphia, PA and currently holds his Series 7 and 66 securities licenses. He is also affiliated with the APAC - Technology Subcommittee and Product Risk Subcommittee. 

When he isn’t working, Bradley enjoys exercising, skiing in the winter, and watching sports (his favorite teams being the Jets, Mets, Nets and Devils). He also loves visiting and spending time with his family in New Jersey.

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Gary Nagle, CFP® Photo

Gary Nagle, CFP®

Investment Advisor Representative
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Gary Nagle, CFP®

Investment Advisor Representative

P: (631) 870-8270 ext. 105
F: (631) 439-1325
E: gnagle@americanportfolios.com


Gary Nagle is a CERTIFIED FINANICAL PLANNER® professional and has worked in the finance industry for more than 30 years.  His experience is in understanding the client and helping them realize their goals and financial needs.  He believes that client education and collaboration are the foundation to creating a successful financial plan.

 Gary currently holds licenses as a general securities dealer, registered investment advisor, as well as Life, Health, Annuity and Property & Casualty Insurance. Gary attended Stony Brook University where he received his BS in Economics and MS in Management.  It is also where he met his wife Tina, while they were both undergraduates.

The couple reside in Setauket NY, and is where they raised their three children.

 In his spare time, Gary is an avid golfer, enjoys playing pickle ball and traveling with his family.

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Thomas Muller

Investment Advisor Representative
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Thomas Muller

Thomas Muller

Investment Advisor Representative, CRPC®

P: (631) 870-8270 ext. 131
F: (631) 439-4604
E: tmuller@ppsadvisors.com


Tom joined PPS Advisors, Inc. in January 2013 as Investment Advisor Representative. He is committed to understanding the specific situations of the individuals and businesses he advises; thereby being able to establish objectives, develop an appropriate strategy, recommend solutions, and review the progress made toward those goals and objectives.

Tom has over 20 years of financial services industry experience. Before joining PPS, he was a financial advisor with Merrill Lynch and has a background in real estate development and property and casualty insurance. While at Merrill Lynch, Tom earned the professional designation, Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor™ (CRPC®).

A graduate of the University of West Florida, Tom earned his B.S. degree in Economics and Finance. He currently resides in Hampton Bays, New York, with his wife and three children.  

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Rabin Kaydanian Photo

Rabin Kaydanian

Investmest Advisor Representative
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Rabin Kaydanian

Investment Advisor Representative

P: (631) 870-8270 ext. 335
F: (631) 439-1325
E: rkaydanian@americanportfolios.com


Rabin Kaydanian is a Investmest Advisor Representative.  He started in 1998 as a financial advisor and sales representative at Ladenburg Thalmann Financial Services Inc. Since 1998 he has been advising private clients on various investment vehicles including but not limited to Stocks, Mutual Funds, Fixed Income securities and other alternative investment products. He helps his clients make well-informed decisions about their investments, retirement plans, and obtain greater financial independence, peace of mind, and security.

Over the course of the last six years he has designed and programmed number of investment strategies to invest and trade the financial markets mechanically through the use of both fundamental and technical analysis. In 2011 Rabin joined PPS Advisors Inc. to start and head their quantitative division. Rabin currently holds FINRA licenses, Series 7, 63 and 65. 

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Get To Know Your Team

At PPS Advisors

David Mottes Photo

David Mottes

Director of Business Development
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David Mottes

David Mottes

Director of Business Development

P: (631) 870-8270 ext. 360
F: (631) 439-4604
E: dmottes@ppsadvisors.com


David joined PPS Advisors, Inc. in June 2012 as Director of Business Development and is committed to continually researching, updating and implementing new technology to better serve our clients. His experience of over 25 years in the financial markets, in both trading and research, has been a great addition to our team. 

David also heads the onboarding of our new advisors and provides comprehensive training and development on many different platforms. He makes sure that our advisors are always up to date with the latest technology, industry trends, services and compliance changes. 

A graduate of St. Bonaventure University, David earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Finance. And, before joining PPS, he worked at various Wall Street firms such as J.P. Morgan Securities and Needham & Company. 

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Patrick McGovern Photo

Patrick McGovern

Director of Operations and Finance
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Patrick McGovern

Patrick McGovern

Director of Operations and Finance

P: (631) 870-8270 ext. 365
F: (631) 439-4604
E: pmcgovern@ppsadvisors.com

Patrick joined PPS Advisors, Inc. in March 2015 as the Director of Operations and Finance, and brings with him over 20 years of experience in the financial services industry. His responsibility is to ensure that our clients receive the highest level of service and oversee all operational aspects of the firm.

Patrick graduated from Dowling College with his MBA in Banking and Finance and a Bachelor’s of Business Administration degree. Before joining PPS, he worked for a local financial and management consulting firm. 

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Katelyn Banfi

Business Support Specialist
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Katelyn Banfi

Katelyn Banfi

Business Support Specialist

P: (631) 870-8270 ext. 366
F: (631) 439-4604
E: kbanfi@ppsadvisors.com

Katelyn Banfi joined PPS Advisors in 2019, bringing with her over 10 years of expertise in business management and customer service. As an invaluable member of the team, Katelyn actively contributes to the day-to-day operations by efficiently handling tasks such as answering calls, providing client assistance, and processing account requests. She takes great pride in building strong, lasting relationships with each of the clients, ensuring their needs are met with personalized care and attention.

Katelyn's strong focus on building lasting relationships extends not only to our clients but also to her colleagues, as she believes in the power of collaboration and teamwork. Her genuine and personable approach has earned her the trust and respect of both clients and coworkers alike.

In her leisure time, Katelyn enjoys boating with her husband and daughter, finding solace and joy on the water. She also nurtures her love for reading and crafting, often immersing herself in a good book or engaging in creative projects. Katelyn's commitment to fostering meaningful connections both at work and in her personal life truly sets her apart.

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 Sandra Brand Photo

Sandra Brand

Operations Support Specialist
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 Sandra Brand

Sandra Brand

OPERATIONS Support Specialist

P: (631) 870-8270 ext. 369
F: (631) 439-4604
E: sbrand@ppsadvisors.com

Sandra Brand is a seasoned professional who joined PPS Advisors in 2021 as an Operations Support Specialist. With over 30 years of extensive experience and in-depth knowledge in the financial services industry, Sandra has consistently demonstrated her expertise in providing top-notch support.  

 Within PPS Advisors, Sandra plays a pivotal role in assisting clients and advisors with their day-to-day requests, ensuring that operations run smoothly and efficiently. Her dedication to fostering strong and lasting relationships with clients is evident in her personalized approach and unwavering commitment to client satisfaction. Her additional qualification as a Notary Public further enhances her ability to serve the needs of clients and advisors.

 Beyond her professional endeavors, Sandra finds joy in exploring her passions outside of work. She is an avid cook who delights in creating culinary masterpieces, a nature enthusiast who enjoys kayaking, and a travel enthusiast who cherishes moments spent exploring new destinations with her family. These activities not only enrich her life but also reflect her spirit of adventure and love for creating memorable experiences.

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Frequently Asked Questions


Are you a fiduciary?

Yes, we are fiduciaries. We are held to the highest standard and will always put your best interests above all else. 

Do you work virtually or in person?

We can work with our clients in any method that is most convenient for them. This includes in person, telephone conference or video call. Although our main office is in Long Island NY, we work with clients across the entire United States. 

How are you compensated?

We can be compensated in different ways based on the scope of engagement and what makes most sense for your needs. Our compensation can be through an asset management fee, one-time financial planning fee or sale of commission product. We pride ourselves on being fully transparent with how we are compensated. 

Do you require clients to have a minimum in investable assets?

No, as a multi-generational firm we work with clients through all stages of their lives. 

How will you communicate with me and how often?

We consider communication with clients of utmost importance. There are many ways to stay connected with us based on your preferences. We require a minimum of one annual review meeting per year that involves more in-depth planning. Our team will reach out at least quarterly to check in with you. Upon initial implementation and any life changes; there will be more frequent touch points. Staying current with us as the world changes can be accomplished through our newsletter, website, and social media.

What is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®?

When it comes to your financial security, it’s all about partnering with someone who is committed to putting your interests first. CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professionals have attained the standard of excellence in financial planning by meeting education, experience and ethical standards, and as part of their certification, they have made a commitment to CFP Board to serve your best interests today to prepare you for a more secure tomorrow.

For Any Question You Might Have, We Encourage You To Give Us a Call

We’re Always Here for You

Tailored Solutions

Developed by Understanding You

We Develop Long-Term Relationships Through Each Phase of Your Life

At PPS Advisors, we integrate our knowledge and experience through all of your financial decisions. From building your portfolio to planning for retirement, we’ll work with you as we clarify your needs and determine how we can best serve you. 

Our approach is truly tailored to your financial objectives, timeframe and tolerance for risk as we determine what strategies are right for you. 


What Can You Expect from Our Process?

With a foundational approach, we look forward to getting to know you.


Step 1:

Client-Planner Relationship

When we first meet, our goal is to learn about your lifestyle, income, family, goals, values and expectations. We will also help you get to know us, our backgrounds and experience, the services we offer and what you can expect from us.

And, while our mission is to provide professional guidance on your entire financial picture, you may have specific issues you’d like to address immediately. 

Step 2:

Analyze Your Financial Status

Next, we will gather and analyze your documents to assess your situation and determine how to help you achieve your goals.

Depending upon the services requested, we may analyze your assets and investments, liabilities and cash flow, insurance coverage, company benefits, tax strategies, estate plan, and/or small business succession plan.

Step 3:

Present Recommendations

Based on the documentation and input you have provided, we will develop and provide financial planning recommendations that address your goals, are consistent with your tolerance for risk, and will assist you in making informed decisions.

We discuss any concerns or preferences you may have and revise the recommendations accordingly.

Step 4:

Implement Recommendations

You may choose to have us implement our recommendations (including asset and risk management solutions), as well as serve as a “coach” on certain topics. An important aspect of plan implementation is often coordination of the process with your attorney, accountant and other advisors.

Step 5: 

Monitor & Review Plan

We will agree on how and when your plan will be monitored and reviewed relative to the achievement of your goals. It is important to note that financial planning is a continuous, dynamic process.

Whenever a major life or other financial event occurs in your life, we will want you to let us know so that we may review and update the plan, if needed.


We Encourage an Interactive Process

Throughout our relationship, we encourage a partnered experience in which both parties are talking, asking questions and consistently learning. By knowing about you and the goings-on in your life, we’ll be able to better assist you in the long-term success of your financial plan. 

Schedule Time To Get Started

Asset Management

Create a foundation of healthy financial habits. 

At this stage in your life, there are a number of milestones to consider - growing your family, purchasing a home, advancing your career and more. As you do so, you’re seeking someone to help you plan for your long-term goals so you can continue to save and grow your wealth.

Sure, your portfolio can be key to building your wealth, but your life consists of much more than what lies in your investments. That’s why we work to develop a plan that drives each aspect of your financial picture. From moments that happen on a daily basis to planning for the longevity of retirement, we’ll help you progress with confidence. 


Together, We'll Work To Address:

Retirement Planning

College & Education Funding

Estate & Legacy Planning

Risk Management

Insurance Consulting

And More

How Can We Best Serve You?

Our asset management services are best suited for affluent clients and their families, small business owners and institutional investors. As one of these individuals, we prioritize conversations surrounding your life, family, goals, experiences, preferences and expectations.

Let’s Start the Conversation

Wealth Preservation

Progressing in life’s many phases can be complex in and of itself, and even more so when you consider the financial intricacies involved. From your children to your business and maybe even your aging parents, there are a number of responsibilities to be considered. 

Working as partners, we’ll align your financial concerns while helping you prepare for retirement and all of life’s milestones. 


Our Professional Insight Includes Education on…

Portfolio Management

Asset Allocation

Sustainable Income

Cash Management

And More

Experience a Customized Planning and Investment Approach

Coupled with ongoing communication, our approach ensures that you understand our investment philosophy and your investment portfolio. We want you to know that you have our team to help guide you through any type of market environment.

Begin With a Consultation

Multigenerational Planning

You’re seeking a better way to manage your family’s wealth and all that comes with it. We know that managing relationships with multiple financial planning, asset management, insurance, tax and other advisors can be challenging and time-consuming. That’s why we offer a truly coordinated approach to help you prepare and educate the next generation, and provide the legacy you envision.


We Specialize in Addressing Your Unique Needs

Whether your wealth is inherited, the result of successful business ownership, or earned in the corporate world, we serve to coordinate all the financial complexities facing your family.

As your team of advisors, we will spend time getting to know you and your family and gaining a deeper understanding of your goals, concerns, preferences, business issues and family dynamics.



We conduct a thorough analysis of your entire financial situation to assess progress relative to:

Financial Planning

Asset Management

Risk Management

Tax Reduction

Estate Planning

Philanthropy

And/or Business Goals

Interested in Learning More?

Ultimately, our customized, integrated strategies allow you to deliver the legacy you have long envisioned and strived to provide.

Contact Us To Begin

Developing Trust in Our

Long-Term Relationship

Let’s Get Started

We look forward to answering your questions by getting to know you. We enjoy meeting with clients remotely but are open to connecting with you based on your location, needs and preference. 

Give us a call or fill out the submission form below to begin.