For the fifth consecutive year, Merrill Lynch has topped Barron’s annual list of the “Top 100 Financial Advisors,” with 23 advisors named in the rankings, more than any other firm.
The list, part of a 21 April cover story on how advisors in the industry are navigating current challenging market conditions, has been published since 2004.
“The consistent top ranking of our advisors since the inception of the Barron’s list is a strong testament to our ability to attract, cultivate and retain the highest quality advisors. This recognition once again differentiates us from our competitors and, we believe, underscores the fact that our wealth management business continues to set the standard for the industry. I want to congratulate all of our advisors on this year’s list as well as the 16,660 Merrill Lynch financial advisors who provide outstanding advice and guidance to our clients around the world,” says Robert J. McCann, president of Global Wealth Management, Merrill Lynch.
The rankings for the annual Barron’s list were compiled by The Winner’s Circle LLC. From over 7,000 nominees, the list is narrowed based on qualitative criteria, including but not limited to having a minimum of seven years’ financial services experience, acceptable compliance records, client retention reports and customer satisfaction.