The Agnew Group

What comprises your financial life? And what affects it? At The Agnew Group, we've honed a perspective on managing wealth that reflects our holistic, hands-on approach to serving clients' best interests.

As seasoned financial advisors, we do not offer "cookie-cutter" strategies because we've never met a "cookie-cutter" client. The people we serve each present a unique set of circumstances and preferences. Many clients are highly educated, financially astute, and can benefit from enlightened advice and guidance that engages them, their spouses, and children.

And while clients are often established in their professions and personal lives, many still need to "figure things out." They may be transitioning from one career to another, nearing retirement, or simply realize they've reached a point where they don't want to "go it alone."

For these clients and others in the greater Washington D.C. area and nationwide, we help them evaluate what they've accomplished, where they stand, and what they believe stands in their way. We're proud to note that many clients we've served for decades have become our closest friends. We believe that reflects our integrity, sincerity, and the trust that clients place in us.

At The Agnew Group, we want to help clients live well now – without compromising how they plan to live later on. That philosophy guides our wealth management style and level of service.

We also believe that:

• It is wise to take a long-term view of preserving and growing client wealth. We consider ourselves to be "tax-sensitive tortoises" that are driven by fundamentals. Typically, we favor the stocks of quality companies and evaluate what we believe their expected value will be five or ten years from now. In the short-term, we may look to generate income for clients with high-quality, dividend-paying equities. We remind clients that being overly aggressive can be problematic when their health or job status changes abruptly.

• The value of an advisor can be measured by the decisions he or she helps a client make. On any given day, we may confer with clients on matters of business succession, wealth transfer and philanthropy, pre-nuptial agreements, saving for college and/or planning for a child to return home after graduation, downsizing or purchasing a second home, a special needs trust or caring for aging parents. These real-life challenges are why we encourage clients to call for our guidance, or simply a second opinion.

• We must proactively assist busy individuals who require an exemplary level of acumen and attention. Talking to clients frequently to review changes in their lives is of great consequence (to them and to us). Looking at matters through their eyes gives us a priceless perspective on needs that clients may not verbalize.

• It is our responsibility to deliver unselfish and unbiased guidance. Aiming to educate at every opportunity, we help clients understand risk they take with their investments and across their financial lives. We also encourage wise financial habits – from disciplined spending to consistent saving. By simplifying financial explanations, we help clients more easily follow the strategy they've agreed upon.

• We allow clients to benefit from others we've assisted in similar positions. We feel fortunate to have long memories and relationships. The referrals we receive tell us we're proficient in assisting a wide range of clients – from those with straightforward financial needs to others whose complex financial affairs demand sophisticated strategies and tactics.

Proactive. Responsive. Collaborative. Those three words are at the heart of our client-focused offering.

We strive to be "lifelong advisors" – bringing continuity and integrity to generations of client families during key transitions, when fact-based decisions can preserve their most cherished goals.

To accomplish that, we focus on connecting with clients in meaningful ways – and connecting the dots in their financial pictures, to bring them greater clarity. We also connect with Merrill thought leadership, so that the firm's research and insights can help clients accelerate their success.

On a personal note, we believe that many clients feel comfortable opening up to us, about their concerns and dreams – both financial and personal. While our knowledge of clients' favorite restaurants, kids' names (and even dogs' names) doesn't directly affect our ability to serve them, it does reflect our familiarity with clients, how often we speak, and how well we listen. It is not uncommon for us to orchestrate a "family meeting" to discuss a trust or business succession, or to stay in touch almost daily, to monitor a client's changing career or health situation.

At The Agnew Group, we measure our effectiveness by the lives, lifestyles and legacies we help clients enjoy.

*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 equity research produced by BofA Securities, Inc. ("BofAS") and/or one or more of its affiliates. 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.

At The Agnew Group, our clients fascinate us – which is why we serve them so enthusiastically.

We have clients who are intrigued by details and how we build a cohesive financial strategy to account for a bevvy of moving parts. They include engineers, rocket scientists, oceanographers, technology entrepreneurs and successful business owners (including those who are "SWaM-certified" in Virginia).

Other clients are strategically minded – having served our country as former military, Foreign Service, and government knowledge workers. On their behalf, our deep knowledge of the government retirement system and plan options can prove beneficial.

To assist these men, women, and traditional and non-traditional couples, we apply our years of experience in the private and public sectors – to help them address important financial decisions as they move across the wealth continuum – from productive careers toward rewarding retirement or work-optional lifestyles. We also help clients recognize the impact of financial decisions on their children and grandchildren.

While diverse in their backgrounds and professions, clients typically don't have the time or inclination to invest on their own or chart a wise financial course. On the other hand, clients' intellect and interest drive their curiosity and the discussions we have with them. For this, we are grateful. For we learn from clients, as we hope they learn from us.

It would be our privilege to learn from – and serve you – as well.

Bringing fresh perspectives to your financial life

The financial decisions you make today can help determine the future you build for yourself and your family. Carving a clear path forward starts with connecting your life and finances. A Merrill advisor provides access to the investing insights of Merrill and banking capabilities of Bank of America to help you make informed decisions as you pursue your goals.

Helping you create a personalized plan

At Merrill, we go beyond the traditional role of an advisor.

• Your goals, concerns and attitude about investing are the foundation of your plan.
• We actively listen and provide personalized advice — ensuring we understand what matters most to you and your family.
• We're committed to creating a personalized plan that evolves with you to help you live well today while preparing for the future.

Giving you access to our teams and solutions

Your advisor is one part of an experienced team dedicated to helping you achieve your goals. Acting as your single point of contact, your advisor provides personalized strategies and connects you with:

• Bank of America specialists, such as mortgage or trust professionals
• Timely insights from BofA Global Research1 to help you stay informed and navigate ever-changing markets
• A full suite of Merrill investing and Bank of America banking solutions

¹_{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 Corp.").}