After a career in the technology industry, Michael joined Merrill in 2004. He has never looked back. Instead, Michael provides clients with a disciplined planning-based approach that helps them look forward to goals that hold meaning to them and the people they love.
Michael has attracted a loyal and growing clientele in the Bay Area, Central California and more than 20 other states. Proud to be their “first call” for questions and decisions, he strongly believes that the trust he earns and the referrals he receives are evidence of his ability to be devoted caretaker of clients’ best interests.Michael has a deep understanding of the factors associated with employees holding company stock, professional women, physicians, and members of the LGBTQ community. Backed by the investment insights of Merrill and the banking services of Bank of America, he delivers value that extends well beyond risk-managed investments – to tax minimization and estate planning strategies, liability management, business succession and intergenerational wealth planning.
When appropriate, Michael may introduce clients to alternative investments* – an area in which he has significant experience. In addition to incorporating what may be a combination real estate, hedge funds and private debt in clients’ portfolios, we have access to the leading and most recognizable firms in private equity. We feel this allows clients to benefit from non-correlated assets that we deem attractive, affordable and likely to offer reduced volatility.
Michael is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ CFP® certificant, a designation awarded by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. He holds a Bachelor’s degree from University of Southern California.
Michael and his family were touched by cancer years ago and have raised awareness and money ever since:* In August 2023, he organized and sponsored “Crushing Cancer for Kids,” a first-of-its-kind pickleball tournament in San Luis Obispo that raised over $13,000 for Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation – a national organization that has donated more than $250 million to pediatric cancer research. Plans are already underway for 2024 and similar efforts before then.* Since 2019, he has been an active board member of Little Wishes, which grants the immediate and ongoing wishes of hospitalized children.* In 2018, he helped raise $38,000 for Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation.
* He and his family actively volunteer with “Jack’s Helping Hand” – which provides patients and families with funds for travel-related medical costs. Michael’s son is a junior counselor and his wife, Sara, is a volunteer at its Camp Reach for the Stars.
Michael has also been a champion of community-focused endeavors. He is:* Co-founder of Bytes for Bits, an after-school program in the Bay Area that teaches the fundamentals of software coding.* An active member of the San Luis Obispo Community Foundation.
* Board Member for the Central Coast Economic Forecast.* Co-Founder of the California Central Coast Estate Planning Council* Member of the Advisory Council for Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation
* A 13-year participant and a former regional board member with Junior Achievement. Michael taught the JA curriculum and financial literacy each year and was named 2019 Volunteer of the Year in the Bay Area.
*Merrill, its affiliates, and financial advisors do not provide legal, tax, or accounting advice. You should consult your legal and/or tax advisors before making any financial decisions.**Some or all alternative investment programs may not be in the best interest of certain investors. No assurance can be given that any alternative investment’s investment objectives will be achieved.
Michael Leeder has earned his stripes – and a diverse circle of ambitious clients – for his ability to help successful people meet meaningful goals for themselves and the people they love. He has also inspired members of his community by spearheading fundraising efforts that support families facing the emotional and financial burdens of childhood cancer.With roots in the technology industry, Michael joined Merrill in 2004. His leadership skills and ability to put "best practices" into action led to him being named Resident Director of the San Luis Obispo office, a position that allows him to mentor other advisors on delivering some of the best-in-class strategies and support to clients.
MICHAEL SERVES GENERATIONS OF TRADITIONAL AND NON-TRADITIONAL FAMILIES, LED BY:
- Accomplished "wealth accumulators" in the Bay Area – founders, serial entrepreneurs, and pre- and post-IPO employees at tech and biotech firms.
- Successful business owners, physicians, landowners, and tradespeople in Central California who are building their nest eggs and see it as a "ticket" to well-deserved retirement lifestyles.
- Clients in 20 other states – many referred by those we've served for decades.Michael explains, "It's so rewarding to make a lasting impact on the wealth and happiness of people who have sacrificed and saved. Whether I meet with couples in my office or theirs, I enjoy hearing their stories and sharing mine. There's no substitute for handshakes and hugs.
"Regardless of a client's location, vocation, level of wealth, or financial sophistication, Michael's warm and friendly manner reflects his open heart and mind. Proud to be a devoted steward of clients' wealth and wishes, he is well aware of the role he plays and the trust he must earn."
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.
