Chris Chen

Chris W. Chen, CFA®, CFP®, CPWA®, is a Wealth Management Advisor who began his career in the financial services industry in 2015 and joined Merrill Lynch Wealth Management in 2017. Chris works closely with individuals and families to help them manage their wealth in alignment with their personal values, priorities, and long‑term goals. His approach is comprehensive and client‑centric, beginning with a deep understanding of each client’s needs to ensure every strategy is grounded in what matters most to them.

Chris believes that every investor benefits from having a clearly defined investment philosophy—a set of guiding principles that shapes decision‑making across market cycles. It’s a way of thinking about how markets work and more importantly, how they don’t work. Investors must understand the nature of risk, the sources of return, and how both should be measured over time, while also developing self‑awareness around their own strengths, behaviors, and potential biases. While no single investment philosophy fits everyone, Chris is committed to helping each client identify and build an approach that best aligns with their unique circumstances and objectives. He believes successful investing starts with understanding oneself.

Chris earned his bachelor’s degree in Finance and Actuarial Science from UCLA. He is a Chartered Financial Analyst® (CFA®) charterholder, a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional, and a Certified Private Wealth Advisor® (CPWA®) professional. Known for his discipline, persistence, and analytical mindset, Chris brings these qualities to every client relationship, applying rigorous analysis and thoughtful planning to help clients navigate complex financial decisions.

Prior to joining Merrill, Chris played a key role in launching his family’s plastic products manufacturing business. Starting from the ground up, he assisted with site selection and facility planning, permitting, human resources, sales facilitation, and accounting operations. This hands‑on entrepreneurial experience gave Chris a strong understanding of the challenges business owners face and the practical decision‑making required to grow and sustain a business. As a result, he is able to advise clients with a business‑owner perspective and offer more relevant, pragmatic financial strategies.

Chris is also an active member of the Bank of America Asian Leadership Network (ALN) and currently serves as a Los Angeles Region Committee Member. In this role, he helps promote business integration and connects professionals and talent throughout the San Gabriel Valley community. Outside of work, Chris enjoys golfing, reading, and listening to music.