Merrill Lynch High Net Worth

Merrill Lynch advisors are among the best recognized in the country; the firm’s employees are ranked among the best advisors in the financial services sector, and the best and brightest are regularly on Barron’s Top 1,200 Financial Advisors list; they are compensated and applauded for their results and expertise. More than two hundred advisors from Merrill Lynch were published on the Forbes Women Wealth Advisors list in 2021. The firm is part of the Bank of America Corporation, making Merrill Lynch enjoy maximum resources and reputation as one of the world’s largest financial institutions; on the back of its membership in the bank, its advisors enjoy compensation and recognition as well.

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Today, Merrill Lynch Wealth Management is available to most investors, with no account minimums across most account types. Clients can choose between entirely automated accounts and those managed by Merrill Lynch or customized accounts managed by local financial advisors chosen by the client. Thus, Merrill Lynch clients have a large spectrum of choice. Merrill Lynch, as part of Bank of America Corporation, offers its clients an all-encompassing range of CDs, ETFs, MMFs, and annuities—thereby helping its clients build a portfolio with their preferred asset diversification to attain their goals.

Merrill Lynch provides its investors with robust research and analytical information on their data, strategic advice, and tailor-made solutions to assist them in their journey in a challenging market environment and realize long-term success. As part of Bank of America Corporation, Merrill Lynch takes advantage of the corporation’s vast research capabilities, market views, and insights in order to be able to layer superior, balanced investment advice into clients’ portfolios.

Table of Contents

• Client Types and Account Minimums for Merrill Lynch High Net Worth Wealth Management
• Investment Philosophy
• Merrill Lynch Wealth Management Fees
• Merrill Lynch Wealth Management Awards and Honors
• Pros and Cons of Merrill Lynch Wealth Management
  • Pros of Merrill Lynch Wealth Management
    • Many Program Options
    • Accessibility Nationwide
    • Comprehensive Internal Research
    • Digital Advisory Solutions
    • Recognized Excellence
  • Cons of Merrill Lynch Wealth Management
    • Challenging Fee Transparency
    • Inconsistent Service Offerings
    • Potential Conflicts of Interest
    • Referral Fee Practices
    • Extensive Disciplinary History
• Merrill Lynch Management
  • Investment Management
  • Banking and Cash Management
• Opening an Account with Merrill Lynch Wealth Management
  • Step 1: Make an Appointment
  • Step 2: Initial Consultation
  • Step 3: Assess and Decide
  • Step 4: Institutionalize the Relationship
  • Step 5: Deposit Money to Your Account
  • Step 6: Management and Periodic Review
• Understanding Merrill Lynch Employee Financial Services and Advisor Qualifications
• Important Considerations

Client Types and Account Minimums for Merrill Lynch High Net Worth Wealth Management

Merrill Lynch Wealth Management is available to investors of all stripes, offering advisory accounts within Merrill’s Investment Advisory Program with no minimum account sizes for most account types. Many company services can be accessed without the pressure of minimum wealth requirements. The company has traditionally accommodated high-net-worth clients and continues doing so, having designed many services to suit the needs of the prosperous.

Those not fitting Merrill’s definition of a high-net-worth investor are almost invariably referred to Merrill Edge, Merrill Lynch’s automated online investing platform. Merrill Edge is more cost-effective and provides an online toolkit with various resources with which a client can seamlessly administer their investments. It is designed for greater accessibility, serving the needs of a more extensive customer base with less pricey options but equally high-quality services.

While Merrill Lynch itself doesn’t enforce account minimums across the board, many of its advisors set their thresholds for new clients. According to the firm’s brochure, these thresholds can vary significantly. For instance, many Merrill advisors require a minimum account size, often not accepting clients below a certain asset level. For SPA (Strategic Portfolio Advisor) Accounts, the typical minimum is $2 million, though advisors may exercise discretion and accept accounts with lower balances based on specific circumstances.

The brochure also highlights that certain Investment Manager Strategies may have minimum investment requirements. These requirements are detailed in the respective profiles or disclosure documents for each strategy, ensuring that clients are fully informed before committing to an investment approach. This structured approach helps to align client investments with their financial goals and the specific strategies employed by their advisors, ensuring a tailored and practical wealth management experience.

Investment Philosophy

Merrill Lynch is one among many global wealth managers, boasting more than 15,000 brokers and investment advisors. Such a size means providing a wide array of strategies and tools—not subscribing to one investment philosophy that its advisors should follow or that its clients should demand. This, in turn, frees both clients and advisors from a one-size-fits-all approach so that an individual approach to investment can be shaped to fit precisely each client's goals and financial circumstances.

This process with your Merrill Lynch investment advisor commences against a backdrop of a complete and comprehensive review of your risk tolerance, inclusive of liquidity desires and time horizon. It is this vitally critical input that will help shape a bespoke investment strategy for you, one that has been explicitly engineered to meet your needs. For its clients, Merrill Lynch offers a broad range of asset types, including equities, fixed-income securities, such as CDs and money market funds, mutual funds and ETFs, and even annuities.

Asset types: Equities suggest ownership in companies; hence, growth can be considered as potential. Fixed-income securities are more specific and come under the category of bonds and equivalents. CDs and MMFs are lower in risk and more liquid offerings. MFs and ETFs offer diversification and are suitable for the investor looking for broad market or particular sector investments. Annuities are long-term income solutions and are ideal for retirement planning.

With the experience of the Merrill Lynch advisor, a client can develop an investment plan that will complement their financial life aspirations and goals.

Merrill Lynch Wealth Management Fees

Merrill Lynch Wealth Management charges a program fee for its investment advisory program, with a Merrill Lynch fee rate and a Style Manager expense rate.

According to the details of the firm’s brochures, the maximum Merrill Lynch Fee Rate should not exceed 1. 75%. These program fees cover the cost of investment advice, guidance, and related brokerage services. However, they do not cover all potential expenses. Clients are also responsible for additional costs, such as custodial fees associated with specific investment types.

Fees are assessed monthly, with the amount due being one-twelfth of the annual calculated fee, based on the market value of the assets in your account. Notably, Merrill Lynch does not impose performance-based fees.

Some programs follow standard fee schedules, as outlined in the tables below:

Merrill Lynch Wealth Management Program Fee Schedule

Merrill Lynch Wealth Management Fee Schedule for Strategic Portfolio Advisor Service

Merrill Lynch Wealth Management Managed Account Service Fee Schedule

Merrill Lynch Wealth Management Awards and Honors

Merrill Lynch Wealth Management has a long-standing record of high performance and quality services, which has secured it the highest awards in multiple years, thereby ranking them among the most reputable and leading financial advisory firms in the industry.

In 2018, over 600 Merrill Lynch advisors made it onto the Forbes list of Best-In-State Advisors, and in the process, the firm stood highest in the list. It had on the list the number one advisor in Georgia, the number two and three advisors in Southern California, and the first and second advisors in Texas, giving it a broad-based geographic representation that underscores Merrill Lynch's deep reach and the caliber of its advisors across the nation. Merrill Lynch likewise was the only firm that had the highest honors ranking in 2017 at the Financial Times for the top retirement advisors in the country, with a total of 55 of its advisors being part of the list of 401 advisors.

This recognition underscores the firm's commitment to excellence in retirement planning and the specialized expertise of its advisors in this critical financial planning area. On top of the above, Merrill Lynch advisors have also received global recognition on several other prestigious lists; the firm placed 16 advisors on Wall Street's Top 40 Under 40, indicating the industry's best young talent and showing how the firm is fostering new leaders in the financial advisory arena.

Merrill Lynch also ranked highest in Barron's Top Women Advisors list, with 18 advisors, surpassing every other firm, therefore demonstrating its commitment to diversity and excellence in its advisory ranks.

All of which points to the fact that Merrill Lynch Wealth Management is dedicated to nurturing talent that can advise at that level, which in turn boosts the confidence clients already have in the firm: the breadth of expertise and the quality of the firm's advisory team. Hiring and keeping the highest quality workers at Merrill Lynch ensures that clients obtain quality advice and assistance in meeting their financial requirements.

Pros and Cons of Merrill Lynch Wealth Management

When seeking the services of Merrill Lynch Wealth Management, the investor needs to know what to expect, both on the positive and the negative side, to be positioned correctly concerning their need for wealth management. A potential client empowered with this type of information has a fair idea about what to expect and what may be lacking, making room for them to align their expectations and make an informed choice regarding their financial future.

Pros of Merrill Lynch Wealth Management

Merrill Lynch Wealth Management is an excellent firm for all aspects of financial advice; hence, the many pros for the clients. Here are some of the big ones that will set it apart from the rest in the field.

Many Program Options

Many of the program options available through Merrill Lynch can help a client with their investments. From non-discretionary to discretionary accounts, clients are able to be as involved as they wish in their investment management. The options range from accounts with limited investment choices to those offering a broad mix of individual securities, alternative investments, and management by third-party or Merrill advisors.

This diversity makes it possible for every client to find a program tailored to suit their investment objectives, risk tolerance, and level of engagement. Whether you prefer to roll up your sleeves and take an active role in portfolio management or subscribe to a more passive approach combined with professional guidance, Merrill Lynch has an offering to meet your needs.

The varied program options of Merrill Lynch aim to adapt to the changing financial landscape and the unique needs of each client. Clients now have a more sustainability-oriented program for those investors who see sustainability and investing in environmental, social, and corporate governance considerations as a critical part of their investment selection. Other programs could be more tax-efficient or able to derive more income. Such flexibility enables you to structure your investment plan in a way that aligns your values and long-term goals with a fluid and tailored approach to wealth management.

Accessibility Nationwide

With nearly 3,000 offices around the U.S., Merrill Lynch can make face-to-face advising a reality. This national footprint means clients can be confident that personal advisory services are available whether they live in a bustling metropolis or a small city. The size of Merrill Lynch provides easy access to the firm's financial acumen and resources. This, in turn, lends a more personalized and hands-on feel to wealth management.

The availability of Merrill Lynch's many branches enhances clients' experience and makes it easy for them to build solid and personal relationships with their advisors. They can always schedule a one-on-one meeting for financial planning or to update or adjust a plan as necessary. This physical presence, combined with the firm's robust digital tools, creates a perfect blend for clients to enjoy personal and online advisory services that offer a comprehensive and responsive approach to client needs.

Comprehensive Internal Research

The securities research and market views of analysts, economists, and researchers in the Chief Investment Office, Bank of America Merrill Lynch Network provide the foundation for Merrill Lynch advisors to stay abreast of market trends, economic forecasts, and recently emerging investment opportunities. In 2020, Institutional Investor named Bank of America Merrill Lynch Global Research one of the world's leading global research firms, which in no small measure highlights the degree and quality of research available to Merrill Lynch advisors and, therefore, their clients. Of course, this enormous research capability is the foundation of its investment strategies, which must be current and data-driven in helping clients make crucial decisions.

In addition to market and economic analysis, internal research at Merrill Lynch encompasses proprietary tools and other resources to help advisors with portfolio construction and comprehensive risk management, thus enabling them to tailor investment strategies and manage risk according to the needs and risk profile of each client. World-class research, coupled with advanced analytics, puts the power of evidence-based, data-driven advice in the hands of Merrill Lynch advisors, amplifying the value they deliver to clients.

Digital Advisory Solutions

For those clients who are comfortable with online tools and looking for a low-cost solution, Merrill Lynch provides the Merrill Guided Edge program. This robo-advisory service incurs a fee of 0.45% of the assets under management, or 0.85% if the client wants assistance from a financial advisor on goal identification and investment options. This combination gives the client a simple, streamlined way to be in control of their investments using technology combined with personal guidance. The Merrill Guided programs are suitable for investors in transit who are technologically savvy and are on the lookout for a cheaper and more efficient way to transform their aims into financial realities.

The Merrill Guided Edge program is equipped with solid digital capabilities around goal tracking, performance monitoring, and periodic rebalancing of portfolios to ensure that the investment is in alignment with the objective set by the client. The client can access their account through an online platform and the mobile app to stay updated in real time. This balance of perfect technology with a personal relationship ensures the client is well connected to their investments and makes adequate, paperless decisions with confidence.

Recognized Excellence

The firm's advisors have been included in Barron's Top 1,200 Financial Advisors for multiple years, proving continuous excellence and expertise. In 2021 alone, over 200 advisors from Merrill Lynch were recognized on the Forbes Top Women Wealth Advisors list. Recognition on the best-of lists speaks to the fact that Merrill Lynch is dedicated to producing the best talent and providing the best service, therefore outpacing others and making it a leader in wealth management. This recognition by the best-of lists, as has been mentioned, is evidence of the quality and commitment of Merrill Lynch's advisors, a guarantee to the standards that the firm maintains.

This is no small recognition of the support and resources that Merrill Lynch advisors have at their disposal: professional development opportunities on an ongoing basis, cutting-edge research, and collegial, collaborative support for each person's advancement. This culture of excellence assures that clients get the best service and expertise, making Merrill Lynch a trusted partner on their financial journey.

Cons of Merrill Lynch Wealth Management

As much as Merrill Lynch Wealth Management has benefits, it also comes with a number of demerits that one has to be prepared for.

Challenging Fee Transparency

One major challenge facing Merrill Lynch Wealth Management is that the business lacks a standard fee schedule for all its programs. This means that a client has to invest a lot of time talking to several financial advisors to understand the extent of their fees. This lack of a standardized fee structure may mean that clients find it very difficult to compare available options before deciding on the best course of action. The main challenge with this lack is the level of complexity it brings for new investors who have yet to integrate into industry norms and practices.

The uncertain actual cost of services may discourage the engagement of some kinds of clients. A client might be confused by the multiple fee structures that may be offered for a similar service, leading them not to trust the advisory process. Transparent and standardized fee schedules could alleviate these issues by making it easier for clients to understand what they are paying for and feel more confident in their financial decisions.

Inconsistent Service Offerings

Merrill Lynch Wealth Management cannot guarantee that all advisors will make all programs and services available all the time, requiring the client to have a detailed discussion with individual advisors to find out what is really offered. Again, it is a point that could confuse the client and require extra time for them to find an advisor with available programs and services fitting their financial needs and goals. Such inconsistencies make a massive dent in the expectations of the client who looks forward to a uniform and consistent experience.

Further, the fact that there is no standard level of service offered may cause discrepancies in the quality or comprehensiveness of any given service. While some advisors can be strong in some areas and weaker in others, it goes without saying that it is essential to thoroughly vet the advisor so the client can be sure to get the advice they need for their particular financial situation. Again, such inconsistencies can result in cumbersome negotiation for clients who are moving from one advisor to another or from one geographical location to another. As such, they may not experience similar levels of service.

Potential Conflicts of Interest

The financial incentives at Merrill Lynch may lead to potential conflicts of interest where advisors are naturally motivated to recommend Merrill Lynch products or those that bring higher fees into the firm. Many Merrill advisors are, in fact, registered as broker-dealers and insurance agents, which opens opportunities to earn extra compensation by selling specific securities and insurance products. These conflicts of interest can be extreme and are potentially able to tilt the advice given to clients toward what is most financially advantageous to the advisor. The client has to be clear about whether any such potential conflict exists and ask the right questions about recommendations and their underlying reasons.

Moreover, this likely implies that clients must be all the more cautious to ensure that the advice they receive is truly in their best interest. Clients should not be shy about seeking second opinions and should boldly ask for an explanation of why they are being recommended certain products. This may better protect their financial well-being and ensure that their advisors are, in fact, fiduciaries and are not letting their financial incentives override the needs of the client.

Referral Fee Practices

Third-party compensation for the referral of potential clients is a familiar source of incidental income for Merrill Lynch. Usually, the referral fee is offset against the client's typical paid advisory fee. Such an arrangement, therefore, can further affect the total cost and objectivity of the advice service. A client must be made aware that any fee they pay includes the compensation for such referrals, and this can or will in some way affect the objectivity of the recommendations they receive. All these concerns make it even more critical that fee structure be explicit and the proportion of fees that go to third-party payments be specified.

Referral fee practices clearly have implications for the cost and objectivity of advisory services, but they also potentially raise significant issues of transparency in advisory relationships. Not all referral arrangements are taken into account by the client. Hence, suspicion may set in, especially when clients start to suspect that the advisor might be making recommendations that may benefit them with reference to third-party compensation. Robust disclosure and transparency about referral fees and their effect on advice fees can ease suspicion and ensure that clients make fully informed decisions about their financial relationships.

Extensive Disciplinary History

There are hundreds of instances of disciplinary action at Merrill Lynch, which is not at all unusual for such a big firm but something substantial to be discussed and warned about when representing new clients. These items may include regulatory action, clients' complaints, or other problems regarding compliance. The voluminous nature of the firm's disciplinary record shows that clients need to do their due diligence in reviewing those documents and ascertaining the level and frequency to which the company has resorted to violations. Being aware of the firm's disciplinary history can inform the client in their decision-making as to whether the choice of Merrill Lynch is appropriate for their financial advisory needs.

The disciplinary record also informs the client about how Merrill Lynch handles compliance issues and whether anything has been done over the years to improve its operations. Clients need to look deeper in terms of not only the number and severity of the infractions but also the issues to which the firm has responded with corrective action. For quality improvement, such actions may be taken as excellent signs of commitment by the firm to maintaining the highest ethical standards.

Merrill Lynch Management

Merrill Lynch Wealth Management is highly respected for offering the most suitable, comprehensive financial services to clients worldwide. The company offers a full range of personalized financial solutions, from investment management through banking to cash management services designed to meet individual needs. This personalized service policy ensures that clients gain professional advice and strategies for achieving of their financial goals. From high-net-worth individuals to corporate clients and their employees, Merrill Lynch adopts a comprehensive approach to all facets of wealth management, using its vast resources and talent to create and provide unparalleled value and support.

Investment Management

Merrill Lynch investment management provides comprehensive services tailored to meet a wide range of client needs. The core of the offering is Managed Account Advisors LLC, which looks at the needs of clients and provides expert advice and tailor-made strategies to enhance the customer's investment portfolio. These advisors have immense experience and insights that help clients realize their financial goals through effectively managed accounts.

An essential aspect of effective investment management is regularly updating account asset allocations. Merrill Lynch recognizes the significance of keeping a well-balanced and diversified portfolio, and its advisors alter asset allocations according to the vicissitudes of good times or bad and in accordance with the objectives of the client. Realizing that investment always entails maintaining a diversified balanced portfolio, Merrill Lynch advisors update asset allocations on a continuous basis by re-balancing portfolios so they reflect the changed market conditions or clients' objectives at that time. This is to ensure that clients' investments remain properly aligned with their financial goals and stipulated risk tolerance.

Another crucial role in the Merrill Lynch investment management structure is the overlay portfolio manager responsible for ensuring that different strategies are harmonized correctly to meet a client's needs throughout the portfolio. Overlay portfolio managers handle many investment strategies, taking the portfolio through the marketplace's dynamics to bear fruit in the form of high returns for their clients. This would be done through a compelling and consistent investment strategy.

Merrill investment accounts allow for investment options, like equity, fixed-income securities, mutual funds, and others. These accounts are designed to reconcile the varied needs of clients, as they allow for investment modalities that are customized to position the portfolio according to the client's financial objectives. Merrill Lynch is dedicated to offering clients diversified investment opportunities to build portfolios based on their needs.

At Merrill Lynch, the firm's general investment direction and policy are the responsibility of the chief investment officer. That office conducts all analyses and research, generating market insights and guiding the general approach to investment. It is due to the intelligence that emanates from the chief investment office that Merrill Lynch can give its clients the latest investment solutions based on market trends and economic forecasts.

Banking and Cash Management

Merrill Lynch offers a complete package of banking and cash management services structured individually according to the client's demands. These services are rooted in cash management accounts that are the most convenient way to handle the client's cash flow. This is a simple process because clients can quickly transfer funds back and forth between the investment and cash management accounts, which is most helpful in implementing the client's financial plan and strategy.

Merrill Lynch permits account holders to link their investment accounts to an eligible personal checking account. This integration gives the client the convenience of access to various funds, automatic transfers, and consolidated statements, so they can manage their everyday expenses and long-term investments from one place.

Bank of America deposit accounts are yet another critical feature in Merrill Lynch's banking services. Those accounts offer the clients a secured medium for holding their funds while earning competitive interest. Clients are accorded a selection of deposit accounts, which include savings accounts and certificates of deposit. Clients make their selection based on their liquidity needs and financial plans.

In addition, Merrill Lynch provides a service to high-net-worth individuals using private bank balances. The service complements banking solutions, including customized options for lending and strategies for cash management. In trying to meet these needs with tailored solutions, Merrill Lynch ensures that the unique financial needs of affluent clients are served with a premium level of service and proficiency.

Bank of America employee banking services are also extended to corporate clients so that their employees can access service solutions designed to increase employee satisfaction and financial well-being. From preferred banking rates to specialized financial advisors, Merrill Lynch employee banking allows companies to have a financially healthy workforce. This leads to full retention and satisfaction on the employee side.

An important aspect of banking and cash management services provided by Merrill Lynch Investment is combined balance calculation. It allows the customer to view and stay informed about their total account balance, reflected in an aggregated balance. This can enable customers to make better-informed financial decisions for optimal cash flow and investment strategies.

Opening an Account with Merrill Lynch Wealth Management

You can schedule an appointment at the regional office nearest to you. There are many Merrill Lynch offices scattered all over the nation. You should not have a problem at all walking in when you require professional advice on meeting your financial needs, from wherever you are. All you need to do is find the office near you using the search feature at the top of the main page of the Merrill Lynch website.

Step 1: Make an Appointment

This first meeting is crucial because this is the opportunity you have to communicate your needs, wants, and desires to your advisor regarding the financial goals you want to achieve. Your personal Merrill Lynch advisor will be able to provide specific insight and advice tailored to fit your individual, personal financial needs. Having understood your unique circumstances, they can embark on devising a plan that aligns with your objectives.

Step 2: Initial Consultation

During your initial meeting, you and your advisor will begin to define an investment strategy to meet your goals. Your advisor will ask you various questions to understand your objectives and investment goals, your risk tolerance, and your time horizon. This evaluation will significantly assist the advisor in coming up with an investment strategy that aligns with your financial goals. At the same time, you can learn more about the advisor's background, experience, and investment philosophy, building your confidence and trust in the advisor.

Step 3: Assess and Decide

Think critically about the investment strategy presented, following the meeting or later in the evening. Think about how you feel about the advisor's approach to advancing your financial goals and about your sense of ease. This is significant in building confidence that the advisor hired is qualified and competent to manage your investments. Most importantly, you have to be confident that your fiscal concerns are taken into account and that this approach seems most applicable to meeting your needs.

Step 4: Institutionalize the Relationship

After you are comfortable with your advisor and the proposed strategy, the relationship is made official with a Client Agreement. This form stipulates the terms and conditions of the advisory relationship, the services you will be provided, the fee schedule, and other crucial aspects of your partnership with Merrill Lynch. Above all, it is the foundation upon which the relationship between the two of you is built and assures a clear understanding of the services covered.

Step 5: Deposit Money to Your Account

The investment account must be funded, and the first deposit varies according to the investment profile and requirements of the selected account. Your advisor will guide you through the necessary steps related to funding your account, which allows your investment plan to be executed.

Step 6: Management and Periodic Review

After establishing your account, your advisor will actively manage your investments. Regular reviews and updates will be conducted to ensure that your portfolio meets your set goals, and changes will be made as may be necessary to serve your goals better. To build on Merrill Lynch's commitment to ongoing communication, you'll always be kept up-to-date on your progress with your investments and any change in market conditions that could affect your strategy. This continuous engagement helps guarantee your investments are appropriately managed and stay on track to meet your long-term financial objectives.

Opening an account with Merrill Lynch Wealth Management is a process organized and tailored to bring you knowledge and resources—not just to point you in the right direction but to ensure that you achieve your financial objectives. In the process, you can be assured that you will be embarking on a journey toward financial growth and security with one of the leading firms in wealth management.

Understanding Merrill Lynch Employee Financial Services and Advisor Qualifications

Merrill Lynch offers a complete line of employee financial services, which makes it possible for companies to support their employees in acquiring financial well-being. The services are designed to provide tailored, custom-made financial planning, financial services, retirement, and investment advice to the employee.

Merrill Lynch understands that investment advisor registration is required by law, particularly by securities regulatory bodies such as the SEC. This ensures that all their financial advisors have the needed qualifications and adhere to the standards set by regulators, which brings confidence to their customers regarding the firm's commitment to upholding accepted ethical and professional standards.

Additionally, Merrill Lynch maintains rigorous Bank of America employee qualification requirements for its advisors. These requirements include a combination of education, professional experience, and relevant certifications. Advisors must often hold licenses such as Series 7 and Series 66, as well as designations like Certified Financial Planner (CFP) or Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), ensuring they possess the expertise needed to provide high-quality financial advice and services. By meeting these Bank of America employee qualification requirements, Merrill Lynch advisors are well-equipped to serve their clients effectively.

Important Considerations

Merrill Lynch Wealth Management clients generally have high net worth status. Those with less than $250,000 to invest are often directed to Merrill Edge, which is a lower-cost, automated program without hand-holding or personalized service. The quality of service at Merrill Lynch is very much dependent upon the individual advisor. Having thousands of advisors, quality varies from one extreme to another. Some have been in the business of successful client management for decades, and others are relatively new. Hence, the investor should follow up on research by meeting with potential advisors to discuss their experience and investment philosophy.

All investment companies, including Merrill Lynch, are required to file SEC Form ADV, which discloses the services that the company offers, charges, and types of clients, as well as any disciplinary action against the company. Do your homework and see if Merrill Lynch Wealth Management is a fit for what you really need and want. Some of the critical steps toward a successful wealth management experience are to research advisors, understand their fee structures, and review their regulatory history.