David Gilchrist
David advises a select group of high‑net‑worth families, executives, entrepreneurs, and professionals, delivering comprehensive wealth‑planning strategies designed to address complexity, preserve capital, and support long‑term financial objectives.
His approach is highly intentional and client‑centric. David takes the time to understand not only his clients’ financial situations, but also the demands of their professional lives, family responsibilities, and long‑term aspirations. By grounding planning conversations in real‑world priorities, he helps clients make informed, confident decisions about their wealth.
In addition to defining goals, David focuses on identifying gaps and inefficiencies within clients’ existing financial frameworks—areas often overlooked in prior advisory relationships. He frequently works with both spouses and encourages family engagement when appropriate, recognizing that thoughtful planning requires an understanding of both financial and interpersonal dynamics.
“The clients I work with are accomplished and financially sophisticated,” David notes. “My role is to bring structure, clarity, and discipline to their decision‑making—whether that’s planning for the future or constructing portfolios that can be executed and maintained with confidence.”
Before joining Merrill, David built a strong technical foundation through roles in accounting* at an estate‑planning law firm in Orange County and as a tax auditor for the City of Los Angeles Office of Finance. He regularly applies this background to help clients evaluate tax‑aware strategies within the context of their broader wealth plans.
David holds a certificate in Accounting from UCLA and a Bachelor's degree in Economics from Loyola Marymount University. He is also a CIMA® designee, awarded by the Investments & Wealth Institute™ in conjunction with Yale University. A disciplined student of economics, market history, and behavioral finance, David brings a thoughtful and analytical perspective to every client relationship.
*David does not provide tax advice in his role at Merrill.
My mission, first and foremost, is to understand you and what matters most to you. Armed with that information I can ask thoughtful questions -- listening carefully, then understanding in detail where your wealth stands today and where you'd like it to be tomorrow. I help you design and implement a personalized plan intended to help you and your family pursue financial goals while helping manage investment risk. My approach is to focus on potential solutions that can help turn goals into reality.
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.
