Moneytology

Merrill Edge Review

merrill edge review

In this comprehensive review, I will provide insights on fees, pros and cons, and whether Merrill Edge is a suitable option for your investment needs.

Merrill Edge is a financial platform owned by Bank of America that offers online and advised investing, trading, brokerage, and banking services. As a user-friendly platform, it caters to a wide range of investors, from beginners to experienced traders.

Key Takeaways:

  • Seamless integration with Bank of America
  • Extensive educational resources and tools
  • Not suitable for advanced traders or those seeking a wide range of investment products
  • No fees for self-directed accounts
  • Consider investment needs and preferences before choosing Merrill Edge

Where Merrill Edge Self-Directed Shines

When it comes to self-directed investing, Merrill Edge has several standout features that make it an attractive option for investors. One of the key strengths of Merrill Edge Self-Directed is its seamless integration with Bank of America. Clients who already use Bank of America for their banking needs will find that the integration allows for a smooth and convenient experience.

But the benefits don’t stop there. Merrill Edge also offers a wealth of educational resources to help investors make informed decisions. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced investor, you’ll find a range of articles, courses, videos, webinars, and free tools to expand your knowledge and improve your investment strategies.

If you’re a newer investor unsure of where to start, Merrill Edge has an Idea Builder tool that can help. This tool assists you in finding investments that align with your interests and goals. For example, if you’re passionate about environmental, social, and governance (ESG) investing, the Idea Builder tool can help you identify suitable ESG products.

With these strengths in mind, Merrill Edge Self-Directed is an excellent choice for investors looking for a platform that seamlessly integrates with their banking services, offers a wide range of educational resources, and provides tools to align investments with personal values and interests.

Where Merrill Edge Self-Directed Falls Short

When considering a brokerage platform, it is crucial to assess its limitations. Although Merrill Edge Self-Directed offers a range of services and benefits, there are a few areas where it may fall short. It is important to understand these drawbacks to make an informed decision.

Investment Selection

One area where Merrill Edge Self-Directed may disappoint is its investment selection, particularly for advanced traders. While the platform provides access to a variety of stocks, bonds, mutual funds, ETFs, and options, some experienced traders may find the range of securities on offer to be limited. This can restrict the ability to diversify a portfolio or pursue specific investment strategies.

Lack of Fractional Shares

Another limitation of Merrill Edge Self-Directed is the absence of the ability to buy fractional shares. Fractional shares allow investors to purchase a portion of a stock or ETF, making it easier to invest in high-priced assets or allocate funds more precisely. Without this feature, diversification becomes more challenging, especially for those with smaller account balances.

Despite these drawbacks, it is important to consider the overall suitability of Merrill Edge Self-Directed for your investment needs. In the following section, we will explore the benefits and advantages that the platform offers.

merrill edge brokerage review

What Merrill Edge Self-Directed is Best For

Merrill Edge Self-Directed is a top choice for Bank of America customers and high-balance customers looking to manage their investments online. With its seamless integration with Bank of America, it offers a convenient and streamlined experience for users.

Bank of America Customers

If you are already a Bank of America customer, using Merrill Edge Self-Directed can be a smart financial move. By combining your banking and investing accounts, you can easily monitor your financial health, track your investments, and make informed decisions about your future.

High-Balance Customers

Merrill Edge Self-Directed caters to high-balance customers by providing a range of exclusive benefits and rewards. From enhanced customer support to waived fees and discounted rates, high-balance customers can enjoy a more personalized and cost-effective investing experience.

Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Investing

If you are passionate about investing in companies that align with your values and beliefs, Merrill Edge Self-Directed offers a variety of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) investment options. You can invest in companies that prioritize sustainability, social responsibility, and ethical practices, allowing you to make a positive impact with your investments.

Whether you are a Bank of America customer, a high-balance investor, or interested in ESG investing, Merrill Edge Self-Directed provides a platform tailored to your specific needs and preferences.

Merrill Edge Self-Directed at a Glance

In this section, I will provide a quick overview of Merrill Edge Self-Directed, highlighting its key features and offerings.

Accessibility and Account Requirements

Merrill Edge Self-Directed welcomes investors of all levels, as there is no minimum account requirement. This inclusivity ensures that anyone with an interest in investing can get started without any barriers.

Trading Fees

The platform offers $0 online stock and ETF trades, making it an attractive choice for cost-conscious investors. Options trades are priced at a competitive rate of $0.65 per contract.

Fees and Charges

Merrill Edge Self-Directed stands out by not charging any annual, inactivity, or partial transfer fees. However, please note that there is a $49.95 fee for full outgoing account transfers.

Range of Tradable Securities

Merrill Edge Self-Directed provides access to a diverse range of investment options. Investors can trade stocks, bonds, mutual funds, ETFs, and options, allowing for a well-rounded portfolio.

Feature Details
Accessibility No minimum account requirement
Trading Fees $0 online stock and ETF trades
$0.65 per contract for options trades
Fees and Charges No annual, inactivity, or partial transfer fees
$49.95 fee for full outgoing account transfers
Tradable Securities Stocks, bonds, mutual funds, ETFs, options

Overall, Merrill Edge Self-Directed offers accessibility, affordable trading fees, and a diverse selection of tradable securities. With its user-friendly platform, it’s a viable option for investors looking to manage their own portfolios and make informed investment decisions.

Merrill Edge Trading Platform Review

Trading Platform

When it comes to trading platforms, Merrill Edge offers three options to cater to different investor preferences. These include:

  1. The full site HTML experience
  2. The Merrill Edge Mobile App (available for iOS and Android devices)
  3. Merrill Edge MarketPro

The full site HTML experience is comprehensive and provides advanced features for a seamless trading experience. The Merrill Edge Mobile App offers convenience and accessibility, allowing investors to manage their investments on the go. Merrill Edge MarketPro is designed for active traders and offers advanced charting tools and real-time market data.

While these platforms provide access to a wide range of securities and offer an array of features to enhance trading, it’s worth noting that some users have reported encountering technical issues with the platforms.

Merrill Edge also understands the importance of research and data in making informed investment decisions. As such, they provide research and data from various reputable providers, including Bank of America, Morningstar, and CFRA. This allows investors to access a wealth of information to support their investment strategies.

Overall, Merrill Edge’s trading platforms aim to provide investors with the tools and resources they need to make informed decisions and navigate the financial markets effectively.

merrill edge fees

Investor Feedback

“I appreciate the convenience of the Merrill Edge Mobile App. It allows me to stay connected to my investments wherever I am, and the user-friendly interface makes it easy to track my portfolio.”

“Merrill Edge MarketPro is a game-changer for active traders. The advanced charting tools and real-time market data provide me with the insights I need to make timely trades.”

Trading Platforms Pros Cons
The full site HTML experience Comprehensive features Potential technical issues
Merrill Edge Mobile App Convenient and accessible May lack some advanced features
Merrill Edge MarketPro Advanced charting tools and real-time market data Designed for active traders, may not be suitable for all investors

Account Features and Fees

When it comes to account features and fees, Merrill Edge offers a competitive package for investors. Let’s take a closer look at what they have to offer:

  • No Account Minimums: You don’t need to worry about meeting a minimum balance requirement to open an account with Merrill Edge. This makes it accessible to investors of all levels.
  • $0 Online Stock and ETF Trades: Merrill Edge allows you to trade stocks and ETFs online for free. This can help you save on trading costs and maximize your investment returns.
  • No Partial Transfer or Annual Fees: Unlike some other platforms, Merrill Edge does not charge any fees for partial transfers or annual account maintenance.
  • No Inactivity Fees: Whether you’re an active trader or a long-term investor, you won’t be charged any inactivity fees for keeping your account open.
  • $49.95 Fee for Full Outgoing Account Transfers: If you decide to transfer your entire account to another brokerage, Merrill Edge does charge a fee of $49.95 for the transfer. It’s important to keep this in mind if you’re considering moving your investments.
  • Access to No-Transaction-Fee Mutual Funds: Merrill Edge provides access to over 800 no-transaction-fee mutual funds. This allows you to invest in a diversified portfolio without incurring additional fees.
  • Interest Rate on Uninvested Cash: For any cash sitting in your account that is not currently invested, Merrill Edge offers an interest rate of 0.01%. While the rate is not significant, it can still help you earn a small return on your uninvested funds.

Account Features and Fees Comparison

Feature Merrill Edge Competitor A Competitor B
Account Minimums No minimum $500 $1,000
Online Stock and ETF Trades $0 $7.99 $6.95
Partial Transfer Fees No fees $25 No fees
Annual Fees No fees $50 $75
Inactivity Fees No fees $15 No fees
Outgoing Account Transfer Fees $49.95 $75 No fees
No-Transaction-Fee Mutual Funds 800+ 700+ 600+
Interest Rate on Uninvested Cash 0.01% 0.05% 0.02%

merrill edge account review

As shown in the table above, Merrill Edge offers competitive features and fees compared to its competitors. From no account minimums and $0 online stock and ETF trades to no annual fees and access to a wide range of no-transaction-fee mutual funds, Merrill Edge provides a cost-effective and flexible investment solution.

Research and Education

Merrill Edge understands the importance of providing investors with comprehensive research and educational resources. Whether you’re a seasoned investor or just starting your financial journey, Merrill Edge has you covered.

One of the standout features of Merrill Edge is its partnership with BofA Global Research, one of the leading research organizations in the financial industry. This collaboration allows Merrill Edge users to access a wealth of research reports, market insights, and analysis from top experts. The research provided by BofA Global Research helps investors make informed decisions based on accurate and up-to-date information.

In addition to BofA Global Research, Merrill Edge also collaborates with third-party providers like Morningstar and Lipper. These partnerships ensure that investors have access to an extensive array of research tools and resources to analyze stocks, funds, and other investment options.

But Merrill Edge doesn’t stop at research. The platform also offers a range of educational materials to help investors expand their knowledge and make more informed decisions. From retirement planning to personal finance strategies, Merrill Edge provides articles, videos, webinars, and other educational resources on various topics.

Investing can be complex and overwhelming, especially if you’re new to the world of finance. That’s why Merrill Edge is committed to empowering its users with the knowledge and tools they need to navigate the investment landscape with confidence.

With Merrill Edge’s robust research and educational offerings, investors can stay informed, make smarter investment choices, and work towards their financial goals.

Customer Support

Merrill Edge provides excellent customer support options to ensure a seamless investing experience. Whether you prefer to connect by phone, chat, or email, their knowledgeable representatives are available 24/7 to assist you with any questions or concerns.

For those who prefer face-to-face interactions, in-person appointments can be scheduled at Bank of America branches during business hours. This personalized support gives you the opportunity to discuss your investment goals and receive tailored advice that aligns with your financial objectives.

While Merrill Edge offers comprehensive customer support, some users have reported difficulties with website navigation, finding it slightly confusing. However, once you familiarize yourself with the platform, you’ll find that accessing support becomes more intuitive.

“The customer support team at Merrill Edge has been incredibly helpful. I’ve reached out multiple times through their chat feature, and they always provide prompt and thorough responses.”

Pros and Cons of Merrill Edge Customer Support:

Pros Cons
  • 24/7 availability
  • Multiple contact options
  • In-person appointments
  • Website navigation can be confusing

Overall, Merrill Edge’s customer support options are extensive and accessible. Whether you prefer online or in-person assistance, their dedicated team is ready to help you navigate the platform and address any concerns you may have.

Merrill Edge IRA

If you’re looking for retirement savings options, Merrill Edge offers both Roth and traditional Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs). These accounts provide tax advantages that can help you maximize your savings for the future. Whether you prefer a Roth IRA, which allows for tax-free withdrawals in retirement, or a traditional IRA, which offers potential tax deductions on contributions, Merrill Edge has you covered.

One of the benefits of having an IRA with Merrill Edge is that you can hold it in addition to other brokerage accounts. This flexibility allows you to diversify your investments and tailor your portfolio to your specific retirement goals.

Another advantage of choosing Merrill Edge for your IRA is that the platform does not charge any fees for IRA accounts. You can enjoy the benefits of tax-advantaged savings without incurring additional costs.

Whether you’re just starting your retirement journey or looking to enhance your existing savings strategy, a Merrill Edge IRA can help you build a solid foundation for a comfortable future.

Our Take

When it comes to long-term, DIY investing, Merrill Edge is a solid choice. With its seamless integration with Bank of America, investors have access to a wide range of financial services and resources. The platform provides robust research and educational materials that empower investors to make informed decisions. Additionally, Merrill Edge offers self-directed accounts with no fees, allowing investors to keep more of their returns.

However, it’s worth noting that Merrill Edge may not be the best option for advanced traders who require a greater variety of investment products. Additionally, for those who prioritize the lowest interest rates on uninvested cash, alternative options may be more suitable.

The Benefits of Merrill Edge

  • Seamless integration with Bank of America
  • Robust research and educational resources
  • No fees for self-directed accounts

“Merrill Edge provides a user-friendly platform with a range of services and resources for investors. It stands out for its integration with Bank of America, high-quality research, and customer support options.”

The Drawbacks of Merrill Edge

  • Limited investment product selection for advanced traders
  • Higher interest rates on uninvested cash compared to some competitors

Overall, Merrill Edge is a reliable platform that caters to long-term investors with a DIY approach. Its strong integration with Bank of America and commitment to providing comprehensive resources set it apart from other platforms. However, it’s essential to consider individual investment needs and preferences when evaluating whether Merrill Edge is the right fit.

Stay tuned for the final section of our comprehensive review, where we’ll provide a concise conclusion based on our exploration of Merrill Edge.

Conclusion

Overall, Merrill Edge provides a user-friendly platform with a range of services and resources for investors. It stands out for its integration with Bank of America, high-quality research, and customer support options. However, it falls short in terms of investment selection and interest rates on uninvested cash. It is important to consider your specific investment needs and preferences when deciding if Merrill Edge is the right fit for you.

Pros Cons
  • Integration with Bank of America
  • High-quality research
  • Customer support options
  • Limited investment selection
  • Lower interest rates on uninvested cash

As mentioned earlier in this review, Merrill Edge offers a seamless integration with Bank of America, allowing clients to easily manage their finances and investments in one place. This convenience is a strong advantage for individuals who are already Bank of America customers.

Additionally, Merrill Edge provides access to high-quality research from reputable sources such as BofA Global Research, Morningstar, and Lipper. This research can help investors make informed decisions and stay updated on market trends.

Customer support is another area where Merrill Edge excels. With 24/7 phone, chat, and email support, as well as in-person appointments at Bank of America branches, investors have multiple options to seek assistance when needed. The availability of customer support contributes to a positive user experience.

However, there are a few areas where Merrill Edge falls short. In terms of investment selection, advanced traders may find the platform lacking compared to other brokers. The range of securities available may be limited, which could restrict investment choices for those looking for more diverse options.

Additionally, the interest rates offered on uninvested cash with Merrill Edge are relatively low. This could impact individuals who prefer to keep a significant amount of cash in their accounts, as they may seek higher returns elsewhere.

In conclusion, Merrill Edge is a suitable platform for individuals who value convenience, high-quality research, and reliable customer support. However, investors with specific investment preferences or those focused on maximizing returns on uninvested cash may need to consider alternative options. As with any financial decision, it is important to carefully evaluate your individual needs and goals before choosing Merrill Edge or any other brokerage.

Further Reading

For more information and resources on Merrill Edge, consider checking out the following articles:

  • Merrill Edge: A Comprehensive Review
  • Navigating the Merrill Edge Platform: A User’s Guide
  • Investing with Merrill Edge: Pros and Cons
  • Understanding the Merrill Edge IRA Options
  • Comparing Merrill Edge to Other Brokerages

These articles provide in-depth insights and analysis, helping you make an informed decision about whether Merrill Edge is the right investment platform for you. Whether you want to understand the platform’s features, explore its IRA options, or compare it to other brokerages, these resources will guide you through the process.

FAQ

What is Merrill Edge?

Merrill Edge is a financial platform owned by Bank of America that offers online and advised investing, trading, brokerage, and banking services.

What are the advantages of Merrill Edge Self-Directed?

Merrill Edge Self-Directed shines in its integration with Bank of America, offering a seamless experience for clients who use both services. It also provides a range of educational resources, including articles, courses, videos, webinars, and free tools. Additionally, Merrill Edge has an Idea Builder tool to help newer investors find investments that align with their interests, such as ESG products.

Where does Merrill Edge Self-Directed fall short?

Merrill Edge Self-Directed may fall short in terms of investment selection, especially for advanced traders who may find fewer securities on offer. Additionally, Merrill Edge does not offer the ability to buy fractional shares, which can make diversification more challenging.

Who is Merrill Edge Self-Directed best suited for?

Merrill Edge Self-Directed is best suited for Bank of America customers and high-balance customers. It also appeals to investors interested in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) investing.

What are the fees associated with Merrill Edge Self-Directed?

Merrill Edge Self-Directed has no minimum account requirement and offers

FAQ

What is Merrill Edge?

Merrill Edge is a financial platform owned by Bank of America that offers online and advised investing, trading, brokerage, and banking services.

What are the advantages of Merrill Edge Self-Directed?

Merrill Edge Self-Directed shines in its integration with Bank of America, offering a seamless experience for clients who use both services. It also provides a range of educational resources, including articles, courses, videos, webinars, and free tools. Additionally, Merrill Edge has an Idea Builder tool to help newer investors find investments that align with their interests, such as ESG products.

Where does Merrill Edge Self-Directed fall short?

Merrill Edge Self-Directed may fall short in terms of investment selection, especially for advanced traders who may find fewer securities on offer. Additionally, Merrill Edge does not offer the ability to buy fractional shares, which can make diversification more challenging.

Who is Merrill Edge Self-Directed best suited for?

Merrill Edge Self-Directed is best suited for Bank of America customers and high-balance customers. It also appeals to investors interested in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) investing.

What are the fees associated with Merrill Edge Self-Directed?

Merrill Edge Self-Directed has no minimum account requirement and offers $0 online stock and ETF trades. Options trades are priced at $0.65 per contract. The platform does not charge annual, inactivity, or partial transfer fees, although there is a $49.95 fee for full outgoing account transfers.

What trading platforms does Merrill Edge offer?

Merrill Edge offers three trading platforms: the full site HTML experience, the Merrill Edge Mobile App (available for iOS and Android devices), and Merrill Edge MarketPro. While the platforms provide advanced features and access to a wide range of securities, some users have reported technical issues with the platforms.

What account features and fees does Merrill Edge offer?

Merrill Edge has no account minimums and offers $0 online stock and ETF trades. There are no partial transfer or annual fees, and inactivity fees are also not charged. However, there is a $49.95 fee for full outgoing account transfers. The platform provides access to over 800 no-transaction-fee mutual funds and offers an interest rate of 0.01% on uninvested cash.

What research and educational resources does Merrill Edge provide?

Merrill Edge provides robust research and educational resources to investors. It offers research from its own BofA Global Research, as well as third-party providers like Morningstar and Lipper. The platform also offers educational materials on a range of topics, including retirement planning, personal finance, and investing.

What options are available for customer support?

Merrill Edge offers 24/7 phone, chat, and email support, with in-person appointments available at Bank of America branches during business hours. Customer support options are easily accessible, although some users have found the website navigation to be slightly confusing.

Does Merrill Edge offer retirement account options?

Yes, Merrill Edge offers both Roth and traditional IRAs, providing tax advantages for retirement savings. IRAs can be held in addition to other brokerage accounts, and Merrill Edge has no fees for IRA accounts.

What is our overall take on Merrill Edge?

Merrill Edge is a solid choice for long-term, DIY investors. It offers a seamless integration with Bank of America, robust research and educational resources, and no fees for self-directed accounts. However, it may not be the best option for advanced traders looking for a wide range of investment products or those seeking the lowest interest rates on uninvested cash.

Are there any additional resources on Merrill Edge?

For more information and resources, you may find these articles helpful:
– “Merrill Edge: A Comprehensive Review”
– “Navigating the Merrill Edge Platform: A User’s Guide”
– “Investing with Merrill Edge: Pros and Cons”
– “Understanding the Merrill Edge IRA Options”
– “Comparing Merrill Edge to Other Brokerages”.

online stock and ETF trades. Options trades are priced at

FAQ

What is Merrill Edge?

Merrill Edge is a financial platform owned by Bank of America that offers online and advised investing, trading, brokerage, and banking services.

What are the advantages of Merrill Edge Self-Directed?

Merrill Edge Self-Directed shines in its integration with Bank of America, offering a seamless experience for clients who use both services. It also provides a range of educational resources, including articles, courses, videos, webinars, and free tools. Additionally, Merrill Edge has an Idea Builder tool to help newer investors find investments that align with their interests, such as ESG products.

Where does Merrill Edge Self-Directed fall short?

Merrill Edge Self-Directed may fall short in terms of investment selection, especially for advanced traders who may find fewer securities on offer. Additionally, Merrill Edge does not offer the ability to buy fractional shares, which can make diversification more challenging.

Who is Merrill Edge Self-Directed best suited for?

Merrill Edge Self-Directed is best suited for Bank of America customers and high-balance customers. It also appeals to investors interested in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) investing.

What are the fees associated with Merrill Edge Self-Directed?

Merrill Edge Self-Directed has no minimum account requirement and offers $0 online stock and ETF trades. Options trades are priced at $0.65 per contract. The platform does not charge annual, inactivity, or partial transfer fees, although there is a $49.95 fee for full outgoing account transfers.

What trading platforms does Merrill Edge offer?

Merrill Edge offers three trading platforms: the full site HTML experience, the Merrill Edge Mobile App (available for iOS and Android devices), and Merrill Edge MarketPro. While the platforms provide advanced features and access to a wide range of securities, some users have reported technical issues with the platforms.

What account features and fees does Merrill Edge offer?

Merrill Edge has no account minimums and offers $0 online stock and ETF trades. There are no partial transfer or annual fees, and inactivity fees are also not charged. However, there is a $49.95 fee for full outgoing account transfers. The platform provides access to over 800 no-transaction-fee mutual funds and offers an interest rate of 0.01% on uninvested cash.

What research and educational resources does Merrill Edge provide?

Merrill Edge provides robust research and educational resources to investors. It offers research from its own BofA Global Research, as well as third-party providers like Morningstar and Lipper. The platform also offers educational materials on a range of topics, including retirement planning, personal finance, and investing.

What options are available for customer support?

Merrill Edge offers 24/7 phone, chat, and email support, with in-person appointments available at Bank of America branches during business hours. Customer support options are easily accessible, although some users have found the website navigation to be slightly confusing.

Does Merrill Edge offer retirement account options?

Yes, Merrill Edge offers both Roth and traditional IRAs, providing tax advantages for retirement savings. IRAs can be held in addition to other brokerage accounts, and Merrill Edge has no fees for IRA accounts.

What is our overall take on Merrill Edge?

Merrill Edge is a solid choice for long-term, DIY investors. It offers a seamless integration with Bank of America, robust research and educational resources, and no fees for self-directed accounts. However, it may not be the best option for advanced traders looking for a wide range of investment products or those seeking the lowest interest rates on uninvested cash.

Are there any additional resources on Merrill Edge?

For more information and resources, you may find these articles helpful:
– “Merrill Edge: A Comprehensive Review”
– “Navigating the Merrill Edge Platform: A User’s Guide”
– “Investing with Merrill Edge: Pros and Cons”
– “Understanding the Merrill Edge IRA Options”
– “Comparing Merrill Edge to Other Brokerages”.

.65 per contract. The platform does not charge annual, inactivity, or partial transfer fees, although there is a .95 fee for full outgoing account transfers.

What trading platforms does Merrill Edge offer?

Merrill Edge offers three trading platforms: the full site HTML experience, the Merrill Edge Mobile App (available for iOS and Android devices), and Merrill Edge MarketPro. While the platforms provide advanced features and access to a wide range of securities, some users have reported technical issues with the platforms.

What account features and fees does Merrill Edge offer?

Merrill Edge has no account minimums and offers

FAQ

What is Merrill Edge?

Merrill Edge is a financial platform owned by Bank of America that offers online and advised investing, trading, brokerage, and banking services.

What are the advantages of Merrill Edge Self-Directed?

Merrill Edge Self-Directed shines in its integration with Bank of America, offering a seamless experience for clients who use both services. It also provides a range of educational resources, including articles, courses, videos, webinars, and free tools. Additionally, Merrill Edge has an Idea Builder tool to help newer investors find investments that align with their interests, such as ESG products.

Where does Merrill Edge Self-Directed fall short?

Merrill Edge Self-Directed may fall short in terms of investment selection, especially for advanced traders who may find fewer securities on offer. Additionally, Merrill Edge does not offer the ability to buy fractional shares, which can make diversification more challenging.

Who is Merrill Edge Self-Directed best suited for?

Merrill Edge Self-Directed is best suited for Bank of America customers and high-balance customers. It also appeals to investors interested in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) investing.

What are the fees associated with Merrill Edge Self-Directed?

Merrill Edge Self-Directed has no minimum account requirement and offers $0 online stock and ETF trades. Options trades are priced at $0.65 per contract. The platform does not charge annual, inactivity, or partial transfer fees, although there is a $49.95 fee for full outgoing account transfers.

What trading platforms does Merrill Edge offer?

Merrill Edge offers three trading platforms: the full site HTML experience, the Merrill Edge Mobile App (available for iOS and Android devices), and Merrill Edge MarketPro. While the platforms provide advanced features and access to a wide range of securities, some users have reported technical issues with the platforms.

What account features and fees does Merrill Edge offer?

Merrill Edge has no account minimums and offers $0 online stock and ETF trades. There are no partial transfer or annual fees, and inactivity fees are also not charged. However, there is a $49.95 fee for full outgoing account transfers. The platform provides access to over 800 no-transaction-fee mutual funds and offers an interest rate of 0.01% on uninvested cash.

What research and educational resources does Merrill Edge provide?

Merrill Edge provides robust research and educational resources to investors. It offers research from its own BofA Global Research, as well as third-party providers like Morningstar and Lipper. The platform also offers educational materials on a range of topics, including retirement planning, personal finance, and investing.

What options are available for customer support?

Merrill Edge offers 24/7 phone, chat, and email support, with in-person appointments available at Bank of America branches during business hours. Customer support options are easily accessible, although some users have found the website navigation to be slightly confusing.

Does Merrill Edge offer retirement account options?

Yes, Merrill Edge offers both Roth and traditional IRAs, providing tax advantages for retirement savings. IRAs can be held in addition to other brokerage accounts, and Merrill Edge has no fees for IRA accounts.

What is our overall take on Merrill Edge?

Merrill Edge is a solid choice for long-term, DIY investors. It offers a seamless integration with Bank of America, robust research and educational resources, and no fees for self-directed accounts. However, it may not be the best option for advanced traders looking for a wide range of investment products or those seeking the lowest interest rates on uninvested cash.

Are there any additional resources on Merrill Edge?

For more information and resources, you may find these articles helpful:
– “Merrill Edge: A Comprehensive Review”
– “Navigating the Merrill Edge Platform: A User’s Guide”
– “Investing with Merrill Edge: Pros and Cons”
– “Understanding the Merrill Edge IRA Options”
– “Comparing Merrill Edge to Other Brokerages”.

online stock and ETF trades. There are no partial transfer or annual fees, and inactivity fees are also not charged. However, there is a .95 fee for full outgoing account transfers. The platform provides access to over 800 no-transaction-fee mutual funds and offers an interest rate of 0.01% on uninvested cash.

What research and educational resources does Merrill Edge provide?

Merrill Edge provides robust research and educational resources to investors. It offers research from its own BofA Global Research, as well as third-party providers like Morningstar and Lipper. The platform also offers educational materials on a range of topics, including retirement planning, personal finance, and investing.

What options are available for customer support?

Merrill Edge offers 24/7 phone, chat, and email support, with in-person appointments available at Bank of America branches during business hours. Customer support options are easily accessible, although some users have found the website navigation to be slightly confusing.

Does Merrill Edge offer retirement account options?

Yes, Merrill Edge offers both Roth and traditional IRAs, providing tax advantages for retirement savings. IRAs can be held in addition to other brokerage accounts, and Merrill Edge has no fees for IRA accounts.

What is our overall take on Merrill Edge?

Merrill Edge is a solid choice for long-term, DIY investors. It offers a seamless integration with Bank of America, robust research and educational resources, and no fees for self-directed accounts. However, it may not be the best option for advanced traders looking for a wide range of investment products or those seeking the lowest interest rates on uninvested cash.

Are there any additional resources on Merrill Edge?

For more information and resources, you may find these articles helpful:
– “Merrill Edge: A Comprehensive Review”
– “Navigating the Merrill Edge Platform: A User’s Guide”
– “Investing with Merrill Edge: Pros and Cons”
– “Understanding the Merrill Edge IRA Options”
– “Comparing Merrill Edge to Other Brokerages”.

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