Merrill Guided Investing: Professionally Managed Portfolios Aligned with Your Goals
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Merrill Guided Investing: Professionally Managed Portfolios Aligned with Your Goals
Merrill Guided Investing is a hybrid robo-advisor that combines expert portfolio management with digital convenience.
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Merrill Guided Investing: Prof...
What Is Merrill Guided Investing?
Merrill Guided Investing is an online investment advisory platform that offers personalized, professionally managed portfolios based on your goals, risk tolerance, and timeline.
Investors can choose between a self-guided digital experience or upgrade to access one-on-one financial advice from Merrill’s advisors.
Merrill Guided Investing Overview
| Offer | Best For | Account Minimum | Mgmt Fee | Get Started |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Robo Advisor | Pursuing investment goals through a guided, hands-off approach | $1,000 | 0.45% | Visit Website |
How Merrill Guided Investing Works
Backed by Merrill Lynch and Bank of America, this platform helps you pursue your financial goals with guided investment strategies and access to human advisors (when needed).
- Select a goal—such as retirement or home buying—and complete a brief questionnaire.
- Receive an investment strategy based on your risk tolerance, timeline, and financial objectives.
- Portfolios are monitored and rebalanced by Merrill’s investment professionals.
- You can upgrade to Guided Investing with an Advisor for personalized support.
Key Features & Benefits
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Professional Portfolio Management | Investment strategies created and monitored by Merrill’s expert team |
| Low Entry Point | Start investing with just $1,000 in a guided portfolio |
| Advisor Access (Optional) | Upgrade to include 1:1 financial advice with a $20,000 minimum |
| Tax-Loss Harvesting | Improve after-tax returns through tax-efficient strategies |
| Bank of America Integration | Link to BOA accounts and earn Preferred Rewards benefits |
| Goal-Based Investing | Track progress toward retirement, home buying, and other financial goals |
Who Is It For?
- Investors who want professional portfolio management without going fully DIY
- Bank of America customers looking for integrated investing and banking
- Anyone seeking the option of upgrading to a dedicated financial advisor
Pricing & Fees
- Guided Investing Fee: 0.45% annually
- Guided Investing with Advisor Fee: 0.85% annually (requires $20,000 minimum)
- Account Minimum: $1,000 (or $20,000 for advisor access)
- ETF Expense Ratios: Varies by fund, not charged by Merrill
Trust & Security
- Backed by Merrill Lynch and Bank of America
- Member of FINRA and SIPC (up to $500,000 coverage including $250,000 for cash)
- Secure encryption and account monitoring for safety and peace of mind
FAQs about Merrill Guided Investing
Can I speak with a financial advisor?
Yes, by upgrading to Merrill Guided Investing with an Advisor, you gain access to personalized 1-on-1 advice.
Do I need to be a Bank of America customer?
No, but BOA customers can benefit from better integration and potential fee discounts through Preferred Rewards.
Is tax-loss harvesting available?
Yes, Merrill employs tax-efficient strategies, including tax-loss harvesting where applicable.
| Account Types | Individual |
|---|---|
| Advisory Style | Hybrid (Human + Robo) |
| Features & Access | Educational Resources |
| Fees & Pricing | % of Assets |
| Investment Options | ETFs, Stocks |
| Minimum Deposit | $1,000+ |
| Perks & Value Adds | Retirement Planning Tools, Tax Optimization |
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