advice for what matters most, when you need it most
TRANSCRIPT
merrill lynch wealth management
Advice for what matters most, when you need it most
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You have goals. Put your ambitions into action.
Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated (also known as “MLPF&S” or “Merrill”) makes available certain investment products sponsored, managed, distributed or provided by companies that are affiliates of Bank of America Corporation (“BofA Corp.”). MLPF&S is a registered broker-dealer, registered investment adviser, Member SIPC and a wholly owned subsidiary of BofA Corp.
Merrill Lynch Life Agency Inc. (“MLLA”) is a licensed insurance agency and a wholly owned subsidiary of BofA Corp.
Banking products are provided by Bank of America, N.A., and affiliated banks, Members FDIC and wholly owned subsidiaries of BofA Corp.
Investment products offered through MLPF&S, and insurance and annuity products offered through MLLA.:
Every financial decision you make today is meaningful for building the life you want for you and your family. Your Merrill Lynch Wealth Management Advisor will deliver investment solutions and planning-based advice to help you turn your ambitions into action.
You’ll benefit from the experience of your Merrill advisor and a breadth of investment solutions from Merrill. When we provide that as part of the full range of capabilities from Bank of America, we can deliver for you like no one else can. You’ll have access to the people, the plan and the process for all your financial needs.
Your advisor will use the latest technology, in-depth research and cutting-edge tools to pull together a comprehensive wealth management plan that’s just for you. And they’ll keep you up to date on your progress regularly to help you stay on track for your goals.
Introduction Approach Wealth Analysis Solutions Digital Tools Recognition Contact ml.com
Are Not FDIC Insured
Are Not Deposits
May Lose Value
Are Not a Condition to Any Banking Service or Activity
Are Not Bank Guaranteed
Are Not Insured By Any Federal Government Agency
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Straightforward advice for your priorities and goals
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What matters to you?
Your path, your plan
Making it happen
Helping you review and track your progress
What’s important to you now, and what do you want for the future?
We’ll help you design a personalized plan with guidance that truly supports you.
We’ll help you set your plans in motion and help you adjust as your goals change.
You can track your milestones and modify based on the expected and unexpected things life brings.
Your advisor will build your customized plan with you:
Your dedicated Merrill Lynch Wealth Management Advisor will take the time to listen and understand what matters most to you, your family and your business. We’ll work with you to help plan for the expected and unexpected, including health care costs, family trusts, the needs of other family members and more. You’ll have a plan that’s designed for your entire financial life.
Introduction Approach Wealth Analysis Solutions Digital Tools Recognition Contact ml.com
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Focus on what matters most
Share your finances and thoughts about investing to help create a
plan that is all about you.
Evaluate your options
Weigh the tradeoffs you may want to make to increase the chances
of reaching all of your goals.
Set and prioritize goals
Evaluate your goals and determine which are essential, like saving for retirement, and which are more aspirational.
Identify potential solutions
Look at investing solutions from Merrill and banking solutions from Bank of America
to assess which may best help you pursue your goals.
Review your finances
See what you own and what you owe, as well as
your sources of income, so you know where you stand.
Easily access your analysis
Review your plan anytime, sent via secure email or uploaded to your
MyMerrill document library.
Create a plan that’s all about you with Merrill Personal Wealth Analysis™
Your advisor will work with you to put together your Merrill Personal Wealth Analysis. This tool helps us prioritize your goals, evaluate your finances and examine your potential choices while creating a straightforward, personalized plan that makes sense for you. And if your situation changes, you and your advisor can work together to update your plan to help you stay on track toward your goals.
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Introduction Approach Wealth Analysis Solutions Digital Tools Recognition Contact ml.com
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Comprehensive solutions for all your financial needsWith Merrill, you have access to a breadth of solutions to meet any financial need. Your Merrill advisor can also bring in Bank of America specialists like mortgage and trust professionals. We provide Merrill investment solutions as part of the full range of Bank of America capabilities.
Enjoy rewards for all you doBank of America® Preferred Rewards is our way of showing you our appreciation — with premium benefits and rewards around the different ways you work with Merrill and Bank of America. As a Diamond and Diamond Honors member, enjoy even more rewarding lifestyle benefits. 1
Access award-winning research 2
To help you stay on track, we can provide proactive recommendations, research and insights from BofA Global Research, so you can make informed decisions.
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Note: For more information about these products and solutions, please reach out to your advisor. 1 Capability offered by Bank of America, N.A., and its bank affiliates. 2 Capability offered by Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated. 6 Insurance and annuity products offered through Merrill Lynch Life Agency Inc. 7 Trust and fiduciary services are provided by Bank of America, N.A.
Plan the impact of my wealth
Managemy personal
finances
Save forthe future
Help growmy wealth
Borrow tofund my goals
Protectmy wealth
Investments 4
Merrill Lynch Investment Advisory Program 4, 5 (Fiduciary Advice)
Alternative Investments 4, 6
Sustainable and Impact Investing 4, 7
Retirement Accounts 4
Lifetime Income in Retirement 8
Health Savings Accounts 3
Education Savings 4
Mortgages 3
Margin Lending 4
Lines of Credit 3
Custom Lending 3
Auto Loans 3
Long-term Care Insurance 8
Life Insurance 8
Disability Income Insurance 8
Annuities 8
Checking 3
Savings 3
Credit Cards 3
Mobile & Online Investing 4 and Banking 3
Lifetime Gifting & Legacy Planning 9
Personal Philanthropy 9
Fiduciary Trust Services 9
Introduction Approach Wealth Analysis Solutions Digital Tools Recognition Contact ml.com
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Access everything you need — anytime, anywhereIt’s easy to stay connected through MyMerrill.com® and our MyMerrill® mobile app.
• View your entire financial picture on one screen
• Connect securely with your advisor
• Transfer money instantly between eligible Bank of America, Merrill and outside accounts 10
• Scan and send documents
• Deposit checks using a mobile device
• Access the latest Merrill insights
You can also simplify your finances by easily linking your Merrill investing and Bank of America banking accounts. This provides you with a whole new level of convenience, including seeing your day-to-day finances right alongside your long-term investments.
Introduction Approach Wealth Analysis Solutions Digital Tools Recognition Contact ml.com
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The Financial Times 2020 “401 Top Retirement Advisers:” Merrill had the most financial advisors overall for the fourth consecutive year.12
We are pleased to announce that Merrill had the most advisors on Barron’s 2021 “Top 1,200 Financial Advisors” list for the thirteenth consecutive year.16
Working Mother Magazine’s “Top Wealth Advisor Moms” list: Merrill had the most financial advisors named to the 2020 list.13
Forbes released their 2021 “Best-In-State Wealth Advisors” list, where Merrill had the most advisors on the list compared to competitors for the fourth consecutive year.17
Forbes’ “Top “Next-Gen Wealth Advisors:” In 2020, Merrill had 156 advisors on the list, the most advisors recognized among our competitors.14
In 2020, for the fifteenth year in a row, Merrill had the most advisors named to Barron’s “America’s Top 100 Women Financial Advisors” list.15
We work hard for our clients, and we’re recognized for it94% of Merrill Lynch Wealth Management clients surveyed rated satisfaction with their advisor a 9 or 10.11
Introduction Approach Wealth Analysis Solutions Digital Tools Recognition Contact ml.com
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Advice can make all the differenceYour Merrill Lynch Wealth Management Advisor can help you take the next step now for where you want to be in the future. Merrill and Bank of America can deliver for you like no one else can.
To learn more about working with a Merrill Lynch Wealth Management Advisor, visit ml.com.
Introduction Approach Wealth Analysis Solutions Digital Tools Recognition Contact ml.com
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1 To enroll in, or to maintain your membership in, the Preferred Rewards program, you must have an active, eligible personal checking account with Bank of America® and maintain the balance required for one of the balance tiers in your combined qualifying Bank of America deposit accounts (such as checking, savings, certificate of deposit) and/or your Merrill investment accounts (such as Cash Management Accounts, 529 Plans). You can satisfy the combined balance requirement for enrollment with either: i. a three-month combined average daily balance in your qualifying deposit and investment accounts, or ii. a current combined balance, provided that you enroll at the time you open your first eligible personal checking account and satisfy the balance requirement at the end of at least one day within 30 days of opening that account.
You must have a qualifying balance of at least $20,000 for the Gold tier, $50,000 for the Platinum tier, $100,000 for the Platinum Honors tier, $1,000,000 for the Diamond tier and $10,000,000 for the Diamond Honors tier. Private Bank clients qualify to enroll in the Diamond tier, and may qualify for the Diamond Honors tier based on their qualifying Bank of America, Merrill, and Private Bank balances. Refer to your Personal Schedule of Fees for details on accounts that qualify towards the combined balance calculation and receive program benefits. Eligibility to enroll is generally available three or more business days after the end of the calendar month in which you satisfy the requirements. Benefits become effective within 30 days of your enrollment, or for new accounts within 30 days of account opening, unless we indicate otherwise. Certain benefits are also available without enrolling in Preferred Rewards if you satisfy balance and other requirements.
2 Institutional Investor magazine announced BofA Global Research as one of the Top Global Research Firms in 2020 based on surveys held throughout the year. The magazine creates rankings of the top research analysts in a wide variety of specializations, drawn from the choices of portfolio managers and other investment professionals at more than 1,000 firms. BofA Global Research is research produced by BofA Securities, Inc. (“BofAS”) and/or one or more of its affiliates. BofAS is a registered broker-dealer, Member SIPC and wholly owned subsidiary of Bank of America Corporation. For more information about this award, go to institutionalinvestor.com/article/b1qbhr3x612gz1/The-Research-Firm-That-Won-2020. Rankings and recognition from Institutional Investor are no guarantee of future investment success and do not ensure that a current or prospective client will experience a higher level of performance results, and such rankings should not be construed as an endorsement.
3 Capability offered by Bank of America, N.A., and its bank affiliates. 4 Capability offered by Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated. 5 You can choose from one or more programs and services based on your individual objectives, investment style, need for ongoing advice and interest in particular investment solutions. One of the options to consider is IAP. For more information, please visit ml.com/programs-services. Merrill Lynch Investment Advisory Program
is an investment advisory service sponsored by Merrill. Merrill offers a broad range of brokerage, investment advisory and other services. There are important differences between brokerage and investment advisory services, including the type of advice and assistance provided, the fees charged, and the rights and obligations of the parties. It is important to understand the differences, particularly when determining which service or services to select. All recommendations must be based on the client’s best interest.
6 Alternative investments are speculative and involve a high degree of risk. There generally are no readily available secondary markets, none are expected to develop, and there may be restrictions on transferring fund investments. Alternative investments may engage in leverage that can increase risk of loss, performance may be volatile, and funds may have high fees and expenses that reduce returns. Alternative investments are not in the best interest of all investors. Investors may lose all or a portion of the capital invested.
7 Impact investing and/or Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) managers may take into consideration factors beyond traditional financial information to select securities, which could result in relative investment performance deviating from other strategies or broad market benchmarks, depending on whether such sectors or investments are in or out of favor in the market. Further, ESG strategies may rely on certain values-based criteria to eliminate exposures found in similar strategies or broad market benchmarks, which could also result in relative investment performance deviating.
8 Insurance and annuity products offered through Merrill Lynch Life Agency Inc.9 Trust and fiduciary services are provided by Bank of America, N.A.
10 Certain banking and brokerage accounts may be ineligible for real-time money movement, including, but not limited to, transfers to/from bank IRAs (CD, Money Market), 529s, Bank of America Advantage SafeBalance Banking™, Credit Cards and transfers from IRAs, Loans (HELOC, LOC, Mortgage) and accounts held in the military bank. Accounts eligible for real-time transfers will be displayed online in the to/from drop-down menu on the transfer screen.
11 Bank of America employs Ipsos, the world’s third-largest market research company, in conjunction with Qualtrics to continuously measure Merrill Lynch Wealth Management client satisfaction via an online survey. Results quoted are from surveys conducted June 1, 2020, to May 31, 2021, with a total sample of 70,614 clients randomly drawn from the Merrill Lynch Wealth Management client base after privacy exclusions (deceased, in litigation, bad email address, etc.). When asked how satisfied the client was with their primary financial advisor, 94% rated them a 9 or 10; 5% a 6 – 8 and 1% a 1 – 5.
12 The Financial Times “401 Top Retirement Advisers” list is an independent listing produced annually by the Financial Times, October 10, 2019. The FT 401 is based on data gathered from advisers, regulatory disclosures and the FT’s research. The listing reflects each adviser’s status in six primary areas: DC plan assets under management, DC plan growth rate, specialization in DC plans, years of experience, advanced industry credentials, and compliance record. This honor is not indicative of the adviser’s future performance. Neither the advisers nor their parent firms pay a fee to the Financial Times in exchange for inclusion in the FT 401. All rights reserved. Rankings and recognition from the Financial Times are no guarantee of future investment success and do not ensure that a current or prospective client will experience a higher level of performance results, and such rankings should not be construed as an endorsement of the adviser.
13 The Working Mother/SHOOK Research’s “Top Wealth Advisor Moms” list, September 29, 2020. Data provided by SHOOKTM Research, LLC. Data as of March 31, 2020. SHOOK Research considered women advisors with children under 21 years of age living at home. The ranking algorithm is based on qualitative measures derived from telephone and in-person interviews and surveys: service models, investing process, client retention, industry experience, review of compliance records, firm nominations, etc.; and quantitative criteria, such as assets under management and revenue generated for their firms. Investment performance is not a criterion because client objectives and risk tolerances vary, and advisors rarely have audited performance reports. Rankings are based on the opinions of SHOOK Research, LLC and not indicative of future performance or representative of any one client’s experience. Rankings and recognition from Working Mother/SHOOK Research are no guarantee of future investment success and do not ensure that a current or prospective client will experience a higher level of performance results, and such rankings should not be construed as an endorsement of the advisor. Neither SHOOK nor Working Mother receives compensation from the advisors or their firms in exchange for placement on a ranking. SHOOK Research is a trademark of SHOOK Research, LLC. All rights reserved.
14 The Forbes “Top Next-Gen Wealth Advisors” list, July 22, 2020. Data provided by SHOOKTM Research, LLC. Data as of March 31, 2020. SHOOK considered advisors born in 1981 or later with a minimum of four years as an advisor. Advisors have: built their own practices and lead their teams; joined teams and are viewed as future leadership; or a combination of both. The ranking algorithm is based on qualitative measures: telephone and in-person interviews, client retention, industry experience, credentials, review of compliance records, firm nominations; and quantitative criteria, such as: assets under management and revenue generated for their firms. Investment performance is not a criterion because client objectives and risk tolerances vary, and advisors rarely have audited performance reports. Rankings are based on the opinions of SHOOK Research, LLC and not indicative of future performance or representative of any one client’s experience. Rankings and recognition from Forbes are no guarantee of future investment success and do not ensure that a current or prospective client will experience a higher level of performance results, and such rankings should not be construed as an endorsement of the advisor. Neither Forbes nor SHOOK Research receives compensation in exchange for placement on the ranking. Forbes is a trademark of Forbes Media LLC. All rights reserved.
15 The Barron’s “Top 100 Women Financial Advisors” list, July 17, 2020. The Barron’s “Top 100 Women Financial Advisors” ranking considered advisors with a minimum of seven years’ financial services experience and have been employed at their current firm for at least one year. Quantitative and qualitative measures used to determine the advisor rankings include: client assets, return on assets, client satisfaction/retention, compliance records and community involvement, among others. Barron’s does not receive compensation from advisors, participating firms and their affiliates, or the media in exchange for rankings. Rankings and recognition from Barron’s are no guarantee of future investment success and do not ensure that a current or prospective client will experience a higher level of performance results, and such rankings should not be construed as an endorsement of the advisor. Barron’s is a trademark of Dow Jones & Company, Inc. All rights reserved.
16 The Barron’s “Top 1,200 Financial Advisors” list, March 12, 2021. The Barron’s “Top 1,200 Financial Advisors” ranking considered advisors with a minimum of seven years’ financial services experience and have been employed at their current firm for at least one year. This is a list of the top advisors in each state, with the number of ranking spots determined by each state’s population and wealth. Other quantitative and qualitative measures include assets under management, revenues generated by advisors for their firms, and the quality of the advisors’ practices, regulatory records, internal company documents, and 100-plus points of data provided by the advisors themselves. Rankings and recognition from Barron’s are no guarantee of future investment success and do not ensure that a current or prospective client will experience a higher level of performance results, and such rankings should not be construed as an endorsement of the advisor. Barron’s is a trademark of Dow Jones & Company, Inc. All rights reserved.
17 The Forbes “Best-in-State Wealth Advisors” list, February 11, 2021. Data provided by SHOOK™ Research, LLC. Data as of June 30, 2020. The Forbes “Best-in-State Wealth Advisors” ranking was developed by SHOOK Research and is based on in-person and telephone due diligence meetings to evaluate each advisor qualitatively, a major component of a ranking algorithm that includes: client retention, industry experience, review of compliance records, firm nominations; and quantitative criteria, including: assets under management and revenue generated for their firms. Investment performance is not a criterion because client objectives and risk tolerances vary, and advisors rarely have audited performance reports. Rankings are based on the opinions of SHOOK Research, LLC and not indicative of future performance or representative of any one client’s experience. Rankings and recognition from Forbes are no guarantee of future investment success and do not ensure that a current or prospective client will experience a higher level of performance results, and such rankings should not be construed as an endorsement of the advisor. Neither Forbes nor SHOOK Research receives compensation in exchange for placement on the ranking. Forbes is a trademark of Forbes Media LLC. All rights reserved. For more information: details-he.re/qg4zAM
The ranking or ratings included in this brochure may not be representative of all client experiences because they reflect an average or sampling of the client experiences. These rankings or ratings are not indicative of any future performance or investment outcome.
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Apple, the Apple logo, MacBook Pro, iPhone and the App Store are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.
Google Play is a trademark of Google LLC.
The Bull Symbol, Merrill, Merrill Personal Wealth Analysis, MyMerrill and MyMerrill.com are trademarks of Bank of America Corporation.
IMPORTANT DISCLOSURES
This material does not take into account a client’s particular investment objectives, financial situations, or needs and is not intended as a recommendation, offer or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security or investment strategy. Merrill offers a broad range of brokerage, investment advisory (including financial planning) and other services. There are important differences between brokerage and investment advisory services, including the type of advice and assistance provided, the fees charged, and the rights and obligations of the parties. It is important to understand the differences, particularly when determining which service or services to select.
All annuity contract guarantees, including optional benefits and any fixed subaccount or index-linked investment option crediting rates or annuity payout rates for annuity contracts and all guarantees and benefits of insurance policies are backed by the claims-paying ability of the issuing insurance company. They are not backed by Merrill or its affiliates, nor does Merrill or its affiliates make any representations or guarantees regarding the claims-paying ability of the issuing insurance company.
BofA Global Research (formerly known as BofA Merrill Lynch Global Research) is research produced by BofA Securities, Inc. (“BofAS”) and/or one or more of its affiliates. BofAS is a registered broker-dealer, Member SIPC and wholly owned subsidiary of BofA Corp.
The Chief Investment Office (“CIO”) provides thought leadership on wealth management, investment strategy and global markets; portfolio management solutions; due diligence; and solutions oversight and data analytics.
Neither Bank of America, Merrill, their affiliates or advisors provide legal, tax or accounting advice. You should consult your legal and/or tax advisors before making any financial decisions.
© 2021 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved. | MAP3925190 | BRO-10-21-0219 | 472663PM-1221 | 12/2021
To learn about Bank of America’s environmental goals and initiatives, go to bankofamerica.com/environment. Leaf icon is a registered trademark of Bank of America Corporation.
merrill lynch wealth management
Advice for what matters most, when you need it most
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You have goals. Put your ambitions into action.
Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated (also known as “MLPF&S” or “Merrill”) makes available certain investment products sponsored, managed, distributed or provided by companies that are affiliates of Bank of America Corporation (“BofA Corp.”). MLPF&S is a registered broker-dealer, registered investment adviser, Member SIPC and a wholly owned subsidiary of BofA Corp.
Merrill Lynch Life Agency Inc. (“MLLA”) is a licensed insurance agency and a wholly owned subsidiary of BofA Corp.
Banking products are provided by Bank of America, N.A., and affiliated banks, Members FDIC and wholly owned subsidiaries of BofA Corp.
Investment products offered through MLPF&S, and insurance and annuity products offered through MLLA.:
Every financial decision you make today is meaningful for building the life you want for you and your family. Your Merrill Lynch Wealth Management Advisor will deliver investment solutions and planning-based advice to help you turn your ambitions into action.
You’ll benefit from the experience of your Merrill advisor and a breadth of investment solutions from Merrill. When we provide that as part of the full range of capabilities from Bank of America, we can deliver for you like no one else can. You’ll have access to the people, the plan and the process for all your financial needs.
Your advisor will use the latest technology, in-depth research and cutting-edge tools to pull together a comprehensive wealth management plan that’s just for you. And they’ll keep you up to date on your progress regularly to help you stay on track for your goals.
Introduction Approach Wealth Analysis Solutions Digital Tools Recognition Contact ml.com
Are Not FDIC Insured
Are Not Deposits
May Lose Value
Are Not a Condition to Any Banking Service or Activity
Are Not Bank Guaranteed
Are Not Insured By Any Federal Government Agency
3
|
Straightforward advice for your priorities and goals
3
What matters to you?
Your path, your plan
Making it happen
Helping you review and track your progress
What’s important to you now, and what do you want for the future?
We’ll help you design a personalized plan with guidance that truly supports you.
We’ll help you set your plans in motion and help you adjust as your goals change.
You can track your milestones and modify based on the expected and unexpected things life brings.
Your advisor will build your customized plan with you:
Your dedicated Merrill Lynch Wealth Management Advisor will take the time to listen and understand what matters most to you, your family and your business. We’ll work with you to help plan for the expected and unexpected, including health care costs, family trusts, the needs of other family members and more. You’ll have a plan that’s designed for your entire financial life.
Introduction Approach Wealth Analysis Solutions Digital Tools Recognition Contact ml.com
4
|
Focus on what matters most
Share your finances and thoughts about investing to help create a
plan that is all about you.
Evaluate your options
Weigh the tradeoffs you may want to make to increase the chances
of reaching all of your goals.
Set and prioritize goals
Evaluate your goals and determine which are essential, like saving for retirement, and which are more aspirational.
Identify potential solutions
Look at investing solutions from Merrill and banking solutions from Bank of America
to assess which may best help you pursue your goals.
Review your finances
See what you own and what you owe, as well as
your sources of income, so you know where you stand.
Easily access your analysis
Review your plan anytime, sent via secure email or uploaded to your
MyMerrill document library.
Create a plan that’s all about you with Merrill Personal Wealth Analysis™
Your advisor will work with you to put together your Merrill Personal Wealth Analysis. This tool helps us prioritize your goals, evaluate your finances and examine your potential choices while creating a straightforward, personalized plan that makes sense for you. And if your situation changes, you and your advisor can work together to update your plan to help you stay on track toward your goals.
4
Introduction Approach Wealth Analysis Solutions Digital Tools Recognition Contact ml.com
5
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Comprehensive solutions for all your financial needsWith Merrill, you have access to a breadth of solutions to meet any financial need. Your Merrill advisor can also bring in Bank of America specialists like mortgage and trust professionals. We provide Merrill investment solutions as part of the full range of Bank of America capabilities.
Enjoy rewards for all you doBank of America® Preferred Rewards is our way of showing you our appreciation — with premium benefits and rewards around the different ways you work with Merrill and Bank of America. As a Diamond and Diamond Honors member, enjoy even more rewarding lifestyle benefits. 1
Access award-winning research 2
To help you stay on track, we can provide proactive recommendations, research and insights from BofA Global Research, so you can make informed decisions.
5
Note: For more information about these products and solutions, please reach out to your advisor. 1 Capability offered by Bank of America, N.A., and its bank affiliates. 2 Capability offered by Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated. 6 Insurance and annuity products offered through Merrill Lynch Life Agency Inc. 7 Trust and fiduciary services are provided by Bank of America, N.A.
Plan the impact of my wealth
Managemy personal
finances
Save forthe future
Help growmy wealth
Borrow tofund my goals
Protectmy wealth
Investments 4
Merrill Lynch Investment Advisory Program 4, 5 (Fiduciary Advice)
Alternative Investments 4, 6
Sustainable and Impact Investing 4, 7
Retirement Accounts 4
Lifetime Income in Retirement 8
Health Savings Accounts 3
Education Savings 4
Mortgages 3
Margin Lending 4
Lines of Credit 3
Custom Lending 3
Auto Loans 3
Long-term Care Insurance 8
Life Insurance 8
Disability Income Insurance 8
Annuities 8
Checking 3
Savings 3
Credit Cards 3
Mobile & Online Investing 4 and Banking 3
Lifetime Gifting & Legacy Planning 9
Personal Philanthropy 9
Fiduciary Trust Services 9
Introduction Approach Wealth Analysis Solutions Digital Tools Recognition Contact ml.com
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Access everything you need — anytime, anywhereIt’s easy to stay connected through MyMerrill.com® and our MyMerrill® mobile app.
• View your entire financial picture on one screen
• Connect securely with your advisor
• Transfer money instantly between eligible Bank of America, Merrill and outside accounts 10
• Scan and send documents
• Deposit checks using a mobile device
• Access the latest Merrill insights
You can also simplify your finances by easily linking your Merrill investing and Bank of America banking accounts. This provides you with a whole new level of convenience, including seeing your day-to-day finances right alongside your long-term investments.
Introduction Approach Wealth Analysis Solutions Digital Tools Recognition Contact ml.com
7
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The Financial Times 2020 “401 Top Retirement Advisers:” Merrill had the most financial advisors overall for the fourth consecutive year.12
We are pleased to announce that Merrill had the most advisors on Barron’s 2021 “Top 1,200 Financial Advisors” list for the thirteenth consecutive year.16
Working Mother Magazine’s “Top Wealth Advisor Moms” list: Merrill had the most financial advisors named to the 2020 list.13
Forbes released their 2021 “Best-In-State Wealth Advisors” list, where Merrill had the most advisors on the list compared to competitors for the fourth consecutive year.17
Forbes’ “Top “Next-Gen Wealth Advisors:” In 2020, Merrill had 156 advisors on the list, the most advisors recognized among our competitors.14
In 2020, for the fifteenth year in a row, Merrill had the most advisors named to Barron’s “America’s Top 100 Women Financial Advisors” list.15
We work hard for our clients, and we’re recognized for it94% of Merrill Lynch Wealth Management clients surveyed rated satisfaction with their advisor a 9 or 10.11
Introduction Approach Wealth Analysis Solutions Digital Tools Recognition Contact ml.com
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Advice can make all the differenceYour Merrill Lynch Wealth Management Advisor can help you take the next step now for where you want to be in the future. Merrill and Bank of America can deliver for you like no one else can.
To learn more about working with a Merrill Lynch Wealth Management Advisor, visit ml.com.
Introduction Approach Wealth Analysis Solutions Digital Tools Recognition Contact ml.com
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1 To enroll in, or to maintain your membership in, the Preferred Rewards program, you must have an active, eligible personal checking account with Bank of America® and maintain the balance required for one of the balance tiers in your combined qualifying Bank of America deposit accounts (such as checking, savings, certificate of deposit) and/or your Merrill investment accounts (such as Cash Management Accounts, 529 Plans). You can satisfy the combined balance requirement for enrollment with either: i. a three-month combined average daily balance in your qualifying deposit and investment accounts, or ii. a current combined balance, provided that you enroll at the time you open your first eligible personal checking account and satisfy the balance requirement at the end of at least one day within 30 days of opening that account.
You must have a qualifying balance of at least $20,000 for the Gold tier, $50,000 for the Platinum tier, $100,000 for the Platinum Honors tier, $1,000,000 for the Diamond tier and $10,000,000 for the Diamond Honors tier. Private Bank clients qualify to enroll in the Diamond tier, and may qualify for the Diamond Honors tier based on their qualifying Bank of America, Merrill, and Private Bank balances. Refer to your Personal Schedule of Fees for details on accounts that qualify towards the combined balance calculation and receive program benefits. Eligibility to enroll is generally available three or more business days after the end of the calendar month in which you satisfy the requirements. Benefits become effective within 30 days of your enrollment, or for new accounts within 30 days of account opening, unless we indicate otherwise. Certain benefits are also available without enrolling in Preferred Rewards if you satisfy balance and other requirements.
2 Institutional Investor magazine announced BofA Global Research as one of the Top Global Research Firms in 2020 based on surveys held throughout the year. The magazine creates rankings of the top research analysts in a wide variety of specializations, drawn from the choices of portfolio managers and other investment professionals at more than 1,000 firms. BofA Global Research is research produced by BofA Securities, Inc. (“BofAS”) and/or one or more of its affiliates. BofAS is a registered broker-dealer, Member SIPC and wholly owned subsidiary of Bank of America Corporation. For more information about this award, go to institutionalinvestor.com/article/b1qbhr3x612gz1/The-Research-Firm-That-Won-2020. Rankings and recognition from Institutional Investor are no guarantee of future investment success and do not ensure that a current or prospective client will experience a higher level of performance results, and such rankings should not be construed as an endorsement.
3 Capability offered by Bank of America, N.A., and its bank affiliates. 4 Capability offered by Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated. 5 You can choose from one or more programs and services based on your individual objectives, investment style, need for ongoing advice and interest in particular investment solutions. One of the options to consider is IAP. For more information, please visit ml.com/programs-services. Merrill Lynch Investment Advisory Program
is an investment advisory service sponsored by Merrill. Merrill offers a broad range of brokerage, investment advisory and other services. There are important differences between brokerage and investment advisory services, including the type of advice and assistance provided, the fees charged, and the rights and obligations of the parties. It is important to understand the differences, particularly when determining which service or services to select. All recommendations must be based on the client’s best interest.
6 Alternative investments are speculative and involve a high degree of risk. There generally are no readily available secondary markets, none are expected to develop, and there may be restrictions on transferring fund investments. Alternative investments may engage in leverage that can increase risk of loss, performance may be volatile, and funds may have high fees and expenses that reduce returns. Alternative investments are not in the best interest of all investors. Investors may lose all or a portion of the capital invested.
7 Impact investing and/or Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) managers may take into consideration factors beyond traditional financial information to select securities, which could result in relative investment performance deviating from other strategies or broad market benchmarks, depending on whether such sectors or investments are in or out of favor in the market. Further, ESG strategies may rely on certain values-based criteria to eliminate exposures found in similar strategies or broad market benchmarks, which could also result in relative investment performance deviating.
8 Insurance and annuity products offered through Merrill Lynch Life Agency Inc.9 Trust and fiduciary services are provided by Bank of America, N.A.
10 Certain banking and brokerage accounts may be ineligible for real-time money movement, including, but not limited to, transfers to/from bank IRAs (CD, Money Market), 529s, Bank of America Advantage SafeBalance Banking™, Credit Cards and transfers from IRAs, Loans (HELOC, LOC, Mortgage) and accounts held in the military bank. Accounts eligible for real-time transfers will be displayed online in the to/from drop-down menu on the transfer screen.
11 Bank of America employs Ipsos, the world’s third-largest market research company, in conjunction with Qualtrics to continuously measure Merrill Lynch Wealth Management client satisfaction via an online survey. Results quoted are from surveys conducted June 1, 2020, to May 31, 2021, with a total sample of 70,614 clients randomly drawn from the Merrill Lynch Wealth Management client base after privacy exclusions (deceased, in litigation, bad email address, etc.). When asked how satisfied the client was with their primary financial advisor, 94% rated them a 9 or 10; 5% a 6 – 8 and 1% a 1 – 5.
12 The Financial Times “401 Top Retirement Advisers” list is an independent listing produced annually by the Financial Times, October 10, 2019. The FT 401 is based on data gathered from advisers, regulatory disclosures and the FT’s research. The listing reflects each adviser’s status in six primary areas: DC plan assets under management, DC plan growth rate, specialization in DC plans, years of experience, advanced industry credentials, and compliance record. This honor is not indicative of the adviser’s future performance. Neither the advisers nor their parent firms pay a fee to the Financial Times in exchange for inclusion in the FT 401. All rights reserved. Rankings and recognition from the Financial Times are no guarantee of future investment success and do not ensure that a current or prospective client will experience a higher level of performance results, and such rankings should not be construed as an endorsement of the adviser.
13 The Working Mother/SHOOK Research’s “Top Wealth Advisor Moms” list, September 29, 2020. Data provided by SHOOKTM Research, LLC. Data as of March 31, 2020. SHOOK Research considered women advisors with children under 21 years of age living at home. The ranking algorithm is based on qualitative measures derived from telephone and in-person interviews and surveys: service models, investing process, client retention, industry experience, review of compliance records, firm nominations, etc.; and quantitative criteria, such as assets under management and revenue generated for their firms. Investment performance is not a criterion because client objectives and risk tolerances vary, and advisors rarely have audited performance reports. Rankings are based on the opinions of SHOOK Research, LLC and not indicative of future performance or representative of any one client’s experience. Rankings and recognition from Working Mother/SHOOK Research are no guarantee of future investment success and do not ensure that a current or prospective client will experience a higher level of performance results, and such rankings should not be construed as an endorsement of the advisor. Neither SHOOK nor Working Mother receives compensation from the advisors or their firms in exchange for placement on a ranking. SHOOK Research is a trademark of SHOOK Research, LLC. All rights reserved.
14 The Forbes “Top Next-Gen Wealth Advisors” list, July 22, 2020. Data provided by SHOOKTM Research, LLC. Data as of March 31, 2020. SHOOK considered advisors born in 1981 or later with a minimum of four years as an advisor. Advisors have: built their own practices and lead their teams; joined teams and are viewed as future leadership; or a combination of both. The ranking algorithm is based on qualitative measures: telephone and in-person interviews, client retention, industry experience, credentials, review of compliance records, firm nominations; and quantitative criteria, such as: assets under management and revenue generated for their firms. Investment performance is not a criterion because client objectives and risk tolerances vary, and advisors rarely have audited performance reports. Rankings are based on the opinions of SHOOK Research, LLC and not indicative of future performance or representative of any one client’s experience. Rankings and recognition from Forbes are no guarantee of future investment success and do not ensure that a current or prospective client will experience a higher level of performance results, and such rankings should not be construed as an endorsement of the advisor. Neither Forbes nor SHOOK Research receives compensation in exchange for placement on the ranking. Forbes is a trademark of Forbes Media LLC. All rights reserved.
15 The Barron’s “Top 100 Women Financial Advisors” list, July 17, 2020. The Barron’s “Top 100 Women Financial Advisors” ranking considered advisors with a minimum of seven years’ financial services experience and have been employed at their current firm for at least one year. Quantitative and qualitative measures used to determine the advisor rankings include: client assets, return on assets, client satisfaction/retention, compliance records and community involvement, among others. Barron’s does not receive compensation from advisors, participating firms and their affiliates, or the media in exchange for rankings. Rankings and recognition from Barron’s are no guarantee of future investment success and do not ensure that a current or prospective client will experience a higher level of performance results, and such rankings should not be construed as an endorsement of the advisor. Barron’s is a trademark of Dow Jones & Company, Inc. All rights reserved.
16 The Barron’s “Top 1,200 Financial Advisors” list, March 12, 2021. The Barron’s “Top 1,200 Financial Advisors” ranking considered advisors with a minimum of seven years’ financial services experience and have been employed at their current firm for at least one year. This is a list of the top advisors in each state, with the number of ranking spots determined by each state’s population and wealth. Other quantitative and qualitative measures include assets under management, revenues generated by advisors for their firms, and the quality of the advisors’ practices, regulatory records, internal company documents, and 100-plus points of data provided by the advisors themselves. Rankings and recognition from Barron’s are no guarantee of future investment success and do not ensure that a current or prospective client will experience a higher level of performance results, and such rankings should not be construed as an endorsement of the advisor. Barron’s is a trademark of Dow Jones & Company, Inc. All rights reserved.
17 The Forbes “Best-in-State Wealth Advisors” list, February 11, 2021. Data provided by SHOOK™ Research, LLC. Data as of June 30, 2020. The Forbes “Best-in-State Wealth Advisors” ranking was developed by SHOOK Research and is based on in-person and telephone due diligence meetings to evaluate each advisor qualitatively, a major component of a ranking algorithm that includes: client retention, industry experience, review of compliance records, firm nominations; and quantitative criteria, including: assets under management and revenue generated for their firms. Investment performance is not a criterion because client objectives and risk tolerances vary, and advisors rarely have audited performance reports. Rankings are based on the opinions of SHOOK Research, LLC and not indicative of future performance or representative of any one client’s experience. Rankings and recognition from Forbes are no guarantee of future investment success and do not ensure that a current or prospective client will experience a higher level of performance results, and such rankings should not be construed as an endorsement of the advisor. Neither Forbes nor SHOOK Research receives compensation in exchange for placement on the ranking. Forbes is a trademark of Forbes Media LLC. All rights reserved. For more information: details-he.re/qg4zAM
The ranking or ratings included in this brochure may not be representative of all client experiences because they reflect an average or sampling of the client experiences. These rankings or ratings are not indicative of any future performance or investment outcome.
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IMPORTANT DISCLOSURES
This material does not take into account a client’s particular investment objectives, financial situations, or needs and is not intended as a recommendation, offer or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security or investment strategy. Merrill offers a broad range of brokerage, investment advisory (including financial planning) and other services. There are important differences between brokerage and investment advisory services, including the type of advice and assistance provided, the fees charged, and the rights and obligations of the parties. It is important to understand the differences, particularly when determining which service or services to select.
All annuity contract guarantees, including optional benefits and any fixed subaccount or index-linked investment option crediting rates or annuity payout rates for annuity contracts and all guarantees and benefits of insurance policies are backed by the claims-paying ability of the issuing insurance company. They are not backed by Merrill or its affiliates, nor does Merrill or its affiliates make any representations or guarantees regarding the claims-paying ability of the issuing insurance company.
BofA Global Research (formerly known as BofA Merrill Lynch Global Research) is research produced by BofA Securities, Inc. (“BofAS”) and/or one or more of its affiliates. BofAS is a registered broker-dealer, Member SIPC and wholly owned subsidiary of BofA Corp.
The Chief Investment Office (“CIO”) provides thought leadership on wealth management, investment strategy and global markets; portfolio management solutions; due diligence; and solutions oversight and data analytics.
Neither Bank of America, Merrill, their affiliates or advisors provide legal, tax or accounting advice. You should consult your legal and/or tax advisors before making any financial decisions.
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