That’s a Schefflera not a (Pachira) Money Tree.

Did you repot or pot up? The soil looks very water retentive.

Scheff’s like full sun. A dark corener would definitely be a reason for leaf drop, especially if you’re over watering too.

If you’re watering when you can still detect moisture in the soil, you’re likely over watering.

Keep the tree in front of the window, though, it’s not going to like that heat/ac vent on the floor.

Potting medium dry 3 in. down may indicate planting (I see 4 separate specimens in the pot) simply needs to be watered.

People call Schefflera "money tree" as well. Thats why common names are...common. lol

I'll wait patiently for the OP to answer my questions.

Thanks all! I replanted the tree with new soil when purchased. It was a standard potting soil from Home Depot- I was told the plant wouldn’t be picky. The new pot was slightly larger than the original, which I know an be problematic because of how it likes to be root bound. I’ve watered this one 3 times, with two weeks spacing in between. Today is a week after last water, and the soil feels ever-so-slightly damp about 2-3 inches down. Plan would be to water again a week from now? Now wondering if it needs more sun, although nursery told me NOT to put it in front of a south or otherwise well lit window. So many conflicting kernels of advice! I’m not sure what to do

The Schefflera will do best in your brightest window.

A south facing window would be best. Naturally, these grow in full outdoor direct sun.

Sun coming through your window is filtered by the glass and therefore not direct.

I assure you, the nursery staff is misinformed if they told you not to put it in front of a well lit window. These are high light loving plants.

its sad there is more misinformation out there than correct info.

Was the nursery also the one who told you it was a Money Tree and not a Schefflera?

How do you water it?

Grows in full outdoor sun in tropical areas.