Investing in securities always carries inherent risks. It’s crucial to understand that when you venture into investments, the potential for financial loss is ever-present. Remember, past investment performance is not a reliable indicator of future success. While strategies like asset allocation, rebalancing, and diversification can be beneficial, they do not completely eliminate risk, especially in broadly declining market conditions.
At Merrill, and across our network of affiliates and financial advisors, we prioritize providing clarity and informed guidance. It’s important to note that Merrill, its affiliates, and financial advisors are not providers of legal, tax, or accounting counsel. For advice on these critical areas, it is always recommended to consult with your own legal and/or tax advisors before making any financial decisions. This ensures your strategies are well-rounded and compliant with all applicable regulations.
This information is for informational purposes and should not be taken as a direct recommendation, offer, or solicitation to buy or sell any specific security or pursue any particular investment strategy. Merrill offers a comprehensive suite of brokerage, investment advisory services, which includes financial planning, and other related services designed to meet a wide array of financial needs. For a deeper understanding of our services, please review our Client Relationship Summary.
Understanding the nuances of investment services is vital. This material is purely informational and doesn’t consider any individual client’s specific investment goals, financial circumstances, or personal needs. It’s not designed as a recommendation, offer, or encouragement to purchase or sell any security or adopt any investment strategy. Merrill provides a spectrum of brokerage and investment advisory services, including thorough financial planning. It is essential to recognize the distinctions between brokerage and investment advisory services. These differences include the type of advice and support offered, the applicable fees, and the rights and responsibilities of all parties involved. Grasping these differences is key when you decide which service best fits your financial objectives. For detailed explanations about these services and their variations, we encourage you to have a conversation with a Merrill financial advisor, particularly at a location like 225 Liberty Street in New York.
Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated, also known as “MLPF&S” or “Merrill,” facilitates access to various investment products. These products are often sponsored, managed, distributed, or provided by entities affiliated with Bank of America Corporation (“BofA Corp.”). MLPF&S is firmly established as a registered broker-dealer and investment adviser, is a proud Member of SIPC, and operates as a wholly owned subsidiary of BofA Corp.
For those interested in insurance and annuity products, Merrill Lynch Life Agency Inc., a licensed insurance agency and another wholly owned subsidiary of Bank of America Corporation, offers these services.
Trust, fiduciary, and investment management services, which include assets managed by the Specialty Asset Management team, are expertly handled by Bank of America, N.A., a Member of the FDIC and a wholly owned subsidiary of Bank of America Corporation (“BofA Corp.”), along with its agents.
Bank of America Private Bank is a specialized division of Bank of America, N.A., focusing on providing tailored services to high-net-worth clients.
U.S. Trust Company of Delaware, specializing in trust and wealth management solutions, is also a wholly owned subsidiary of Bank of America Corporation, further extending the group’s capabilities in wealth services.
Banking products are securely provided by Bank of America, N.A. and its affiliated banks, all of which are Members of the FDIC and wholly owned subsidiaries of Bank of America Corporation, ensuring reliable and regulated banking services.
When considering investment, insurance, and annuity products, it’s important to be aware of the following:
| Important Disclosures Regarding Investment Products |
|---|
| Not FDIC Insured |
| Not Bank Guaranteed |
| May Lose Value |
| Not Deposits |
| Not Insured by Any Federal Government Agency |
| Not a Condition to Any Banking Service or Activity |
