Profile

Stephen measures his success – not in clients’ assets – but by the enduring relationships he continues to enjoy with a diverse clientele of hardworking women and men, as well as generations of their families in the Louisville area, southern Indiana and South Florida. Many clients have been with Stephen for more than 15 years – evidence of what he believes is his candor and consistent delivery of acumen and attention.

The vast majority of Stephen’s clients have been referred to him. They include physicians and other medical professionals, pharmaceutical and other executives (many with concentrated equity positions), accomplished business owners, and a growing number of couples approaching retirement.

Committed to creating a positive experience for clients, Stephen is patient and focuses on helping them feel comfortable with where they stand and the road ahead. In each conversation, he asks questions and listens carefully to what clients say (and may not say). By learning what keeps clients up at night, he can appreciate their goals and concerns – both critical elements in managing their wealth and expectations.

Stephen also takes time to explain the rationales behind his recommendations – and especially, how each strategy connects with a client’s situation and ambitions. In addition, Stephen is proactive – calling clients frequently, not just when the calendar says so. Among the topics he discusses are Social Security, rising health care costs, wealth transfer issues, long-term care and the need for other forms of insurance. Just as important, Stephen makes himself available to clients – discussing time-sensitive issues on weekends and in the evening.

When it comes to investing, Stephen bases his decisions on the degree of risk each client is willing to take, their investment timeline, liquidity needs, and what’s required to put their goals within reach. Using Merrill research and portfolios, he diversifies portfolios across asset classes including individual equities. He also introduces clients to private equity and other alternative investments*, that he deems attractive, affordable, and likely to offer reduced volatility.

Beyond investing, Stephen gives clients access to Bank of America, N.A. for residential and securities-based lending, as well as equipment financing and other forms of commercial lending. He works in conjunction with clients’ CPAs and attorneys for tax-minimization and estate planning strategies.

Before arriving at Merrill in 2020, Stephen was a financial advisor at PNC Investments for seven years. He also spent more than 15 years in similar roles at Wells Fargo Advisors and River Valley Bank. Stephen and Kelly (his wife and high school sweetheart) are proud parents of a son, daughter, and Golden Retriever. They reside in New Albany, Indiana where Stephen can be found hiking, listening to all types of music, and actively supporting The University of Louisville Hospital Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.



*Some or all alternative investment programs may not be in the best interest of certain investors. No assurance can be given that any alternative investment’s investment objectives will be achieved.*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. Any information presented in connection with BofA Global Research is general in nature and is not intended to provide personal investment advice. The information does not take into account the specific investment objectives, financial situation and particular needs of any specific person who may receive it. Investors should understand that statements regarding future prospects may not be realized.

I follow the deep-seated Merrill tradition of participating in the communities we serve. This drives my interest in spending time volunteering with organizations in our community.