539 Merrill Advisors Recognized on Forbes' Top Women Wealth Advisor Lists
MWN-AI** Summary
In a remarkable achievement, Forbes has recognized 539 advisors from Merrill Wealth Management and Merrill Private Wealth on its 2026 Top Women Wealth Advisors lists, marking the highest representation from any firm. This significant accomplishment showcases not only the extensive talent pool at Merrill but also emphasizes the firm's commitment to empowering women in wealth management. Among those honored, 17 advisors earned the top spot in their respective states, reflecting the geographic diversity and expertise within Merrill's advisory team.
Kenneth Correa, Head of Business and Client Development at Merrill, expressed pride in the accomplishments of these exceptional advisors, highlighting their role in helping clients achieve their financial goals daily. Moreover, 23 Merrill advisors were distinguished in Forbes' prestigious list of America’s Top 100 Women Wealth Advisors, further solidifying the firm's leadership in wealth management.
Notable rankings include Michelle Mayer from Naples, FL at #3, and Kelly Westmoreland from Atlanta, GA at #4. Other ranked advisors include Johanna Walters (#10), Corina Davis (#15), and Sharon Oberlander (#17), among several others, each contributing to Merrill's reputation as a leader in the financial advisory industry.
The rankings from Forbes were developed in collaboration with SHOOK Research, which evaluated advisors using a combination of qualitative and quantitative criteria, including client service, investment processes, compliance records, and overall performance metrics. The rankings published on February 4, 2026, were based on data as of June 30, 2025, reinforcing the standard of excellence that clients can expect when engaging with Merrill advisors. This recognition not only celebrates individual accomplishments but also highlights Merrill’s ongoing investment in cultivating top-tier advisory talent in the wealth management sector.
MWN-AI** Analysis
The recent recognition of 539 Merrill Advisors in Forbes' Top Women Wealth Advisors lists underscores the exceptional talent within Merrill Wealth Management and highlights the firm's commitment to diversity and excellence in financial advisory. This achievement is significant for investors seeking guidance in these complex economic times, as the expertise of these advisors can play a crucial role in navigating financial markets.
Investors should take note of the geographic breadth of Merrill's top-ranking advisors, with 17 clinching the number one spot in their respective states. This regional representation indicates a wealth of localized knowledge, allowing clients to benefit from advisors who understand the specific economic conditions and trends affecting their areas. Leveraging this localized expertise can be particularly beneficial for personalized wealth management strategies that align with individual financial goals.
Moreover, Merrill's focus on nurturing female leadership in finance is a positive sign for the industry as a whole. Studies have shown that diversity in advisory teams can lead to better investment outcomes and decision-making processes. Clients may find that women advisors often bring a different perspective and approach to financial planning, which can be invaluable in developing a well-rounded investment strategy.
As interest rates fluctuate and market volatility continues, it's essential for investors to seek top talent that can offer tailored financial advice. The rankings provided by Forbes serve as a reliable resource for those looking to select advisors with proven track records in client retention and satisfaction. Investors should consider reaching out to the highlighted Merrill advisors to explore personalized financial solutions, encompassing diverse asset classes and investment strategies that align with their risk tolerance and long-term objectives. The recognition of these advisors is not just a celebration of their accomplishments but also an endorsement of the potential for sustained wealth growth through trusted financial partnerships.
**MWN-AI Summary and Analysis is based on asking OpenAI to summarize and analyze this news release.
PR Newswire
Forbes named 23 Merrill advisors to Top 100 Women Wealth Advisors
NEW YORK, Feb. 10, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Forbes recognized 539 Merrill Wealth Management and Merrill Private Wealth Advisors on its annual Top Women Wealth Advisors Best-in-State, more than any other firm. The strong showing includes 17 advisors who ranked number one in their states, underscoring the depth and geographic breadth of Merrill's advisor talent. (Rankings published February 4, 2026 based on data as of June 30, 2025.)
"We are incredibly proud to have so many exceptional advisors recognized on Forbes' Top Women Wealth Advisors lists," said Kenneth Correa, Head of Business and Client Development at Merrill. "As we continue investing in talent, we celebrate these accomplished professionals who help clients pursue their financial goals every day."
In addition, 23 Merrill advisors were named to Forbes' prestigious list of America's Top Women Wealth Advisors. (Rankings published on February 4, 2026. based on data as of June 30, 2025.)
Forbes honored the following Merrill advisors on its list of the top 100 women advisors:
- Michelle Mayer, Naples, FL – #3
- Kelly Westmoreland, Atlanta, GA – #4
- Johanna Walters, Blue Bell, PA – #10
- Corina Davis, Seattle, WA – #15
- Sharon Oberlander, Chicago, IL – #17
- Mary Mullin, Boston, MA – #20
- Christina Boyd, Wayzata, MN – #26
- Nazie Saffari-Moini, Beverly Hills, CA – #30
- Melissa Spickler, Bloomfield Hills, MI – #32
- Donna Di Ianni, Aspen, CO – #40
- Donna Joyner, Alpharetta, GA – #43
- Joni Abalos, Houston, TX – #48
- Kyle Olson, New York, NY – #51
- Megan Bailey, Blue Bell, PA – #62
- Krystal Julius, Wayzata, MN – #65
- Eleni Mavromati, Los Angeles, CA – #70
- Nadia Allaudin, Century City, CA – #78
- Ronya Corey, Washington, DC – #80
- Courtney Moore, New York, NY – #82
- Elizabeth Angelone, Miami, FL – #87
- Christine Heim, Florham Park, NJ – #90
- Rachel Barzilay, Boca Raton, FL – #96
- Alyssa Moeder, New York, NY – #100
About the Forbes/SHOOK Methodology
The Forbes Top Women Wealth Advisors rankings, developed by SHOOK Research, evaluate advisors using both qualitative and quantitative criteria, including client service models, investment processes, compliance records, revenue trends, and assets under management. Advisors must have a minimum of seven years' experience. Neither Forbes nor SHOOK Research receives a fee in exchange for ranking placement.
For the full list and methodology, visit: Forbes 2026 America's Top Women Wealth Advisors List and Forbes 2026 Top Women Wealth Advisors Best-In-State List
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2026 Forbes "Top Women Wealth Advisors Best-in-State" list. Opinions provided by SHOOK® Research, LLC and is based on in-person, virtual and telephone due-diligence meetings that measure best practices, client retention, industry experience, credentials, compliance records, firm nominations, assets under management and Firm-generated revenue (investment performance is not a criterion). SHOOK's rankings are available for client evaluation only, are not indicative of future performance and do not represent any one client's experience and available for investor help in evaluating the right financial advisor and should not be considered an endorsement of the advisor. Compensation was not received from anyone for the study. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Details available at the SHOOK Research website. SHOOK is a registered trademark of SHOOK Research, LLC.
2026 Forbes "America's Top Women Wealth Advisors" list. Opinions provided by SHOOK® Research, LLC and is based on in-person, virtual and telephone due-diligence meetings that measure best practices, client retention, industry experience, credentials, compliance records, firm nominations, assets under management and Firm-generated revenue (investment performance is not a criterion). SHOOK's rankings are available for client evaluation only, are not indicative of future performance and do not represent any one client's experience and available for investor help in evaluating the right financial advisor and should not be considered an endorsement of the advisor. Compensation was not received from anyone for the study. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Details available at the SHOOK Research website. SHOOK is a registered trademark of SHOOK Research, LLC.
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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 financial advisor.
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The Chief Investment Office (CIO) provides thought leadership on wealth management, investment strategy and global markets; portfolio management solutions; due diligence; and solutions oversight and data analytics. CIO viewpoints are developed for Bank of America Private Bank, a division of Bank of America, N.A., ("Bank of America") and Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated ("MLPF&S" or "Merrill"), a registered broker-dealer, registered investment adviser and a wholly owned subsidiary of Bank of America Corporation.
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FAQ**
How does the recognition of 539 Merrill advisors on Forbes' Top Women Wealth Advisor Lists impact Bank of America Corporation BAC's reputation in the wealth management industry?
What strategies is Bank of America Corporation BAC implementing to continue attracting and developing talented women advisors following this recognition?
Can you provide insights on the performance metrics of the Merrill advisors recognized by Forbes and how these reflect on Bank of America Corporation BAC's overall client service model?
How does Bank of America Corporation BAC plan to leverage the accomplishment of having multiple advisors ranked nationally to enhance its market presence and client engagement strategies?
**MWN-AI FAQ is based on asking OpenAI questions about Bank of America Corporation (NYSE: BAC).
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