A Goals-Based Wealth Management Strategy

ASSET ALLOCATION
How your investment capital is apportioned among different asset classes — cash, stocks, bonds, for example — is critical. When we design an asset allocation framework for you, we consider your long-term goals, risk tolerance, needs for liquidity and income, time horizon and tax situation.

DIVERSIFICATION
This is an essential first step in helping to dampen your portfolio's volatility and smooth out its return pattern. We recommend diversifying across, as well as within, a range of asset classes and subclasses.

INVESTMENT SELECTION
We rely on well-researched model portfolios, including individual stocks and bonds (both taxable and tax advantaged), as well as fixed-income and equity mutual funds and cash and cash-equivalent securities.

DOWNSIDE RISK MANAGEMENT
A strong sell discipline is central to our risk management function. We try to prevent position losses beyond a specified percentage. We believe this is imperative because holding on to a declining position while waiting for it to recover can have a negative impact on your portfolio's overall performance.

*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.

*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. 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. BofA Global Research does and seeks to do business with companies covered in its research reports. As a result, investors should be aware that the firm may have a conflict of interest that could affect the objectivity of this report. Investors should consider this report as only a single factor in making their investment decision. 

*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. For more information about these services and their differences, speak with your Merrill Lynch Wealth Management Advisor.

Earning Your Trust

We recognize that we strive to hold a position of trust, that trust is earned and that you look to us for guidance on matters that affect your life. When we help you structure your portfolio, we strive to optimize the expected return for the level of risk with which you are comfortable. We make it a priority to reach out to you and keep you informed.

The Williams Tomlin Group is your point of access to the Merrill Lynch Wealth Management products and services platform, one of the broadest and most flexible in the wealth management industry. Its open architecture enables us to offer you technologies, strategies and investment alternatives from an array of financial services providers. In helping you set and implement your wealth management strategy, we have at our disposal a number of powerful analytical tools and software programs at Merrill.

Managing and sustaining wealth in today's world can be complicated. We are committed to being consistent, practical and reliable, and we believe that our knowledge, insight, perspective and wisdom are the most important products we offer.

Working with Affluent Families and Individuals

We work closely with affluent families and individuals coast to coast, including corporate executives, entrepreneurs and business owners who value our disciplined approach and professional perspective. We understand the demands and responsibilities of significant wealth, and we draw on our considerable experience to suggest customized strategies designed to address your unique circumstances.

We strive to understand your life goals and what may impact your finances in the long term. Many clients turn to us as they face transitions, such as selling a business or winding down a career. For people approaching or in retirement, we focus on income distribution. We believe that structuring investments and managing cash flow can be key to living well during retirement.