The Clarke Group

Merrill Lynch Wealth Management
1020 Boston Post Road
Darien CT 06820
(203) 662.5531
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We believe great relationships begin with listening and grow stronger through clear communication, meaningful connection, and genuine care. Our mission is to be the first call our clients make when life presents a challenge or opportunity. We go beyond the numbers – seeking to understand what matters most to our clients, what they hope to achieve, and what gives their lives meaning. Our goal is to give them confidence to focus on their priorities knowing they have a team they can count on through every stage of life.
The Clarke Group
Welcome

At The Clarke Group meaningful wealth management begins with understanding you. Before discussing strategies or recommendations, we take the time to learn about your goals, values, priorities, and the life you envision for yourself and your family.

Whether you're starting a new family, preparing for retirement, or planning for future generations, we build personalized financial plans tailored to your unique goals and needs. A thoughtful plan serves as the foundation for your long-term financial success and gives you the confidence to focus on your priorities.

We are proud to work with individuals, families, business owners, executives, and multi-generational households across a wide range of backgrounds and life stages. By combining personalized guidance with the resources of Merrill and the banking and lending capabilities of Bank of America, we help clients achieve their goals while simplifying their financial lives.

Recognition
James Clarke
Senior Vice President, Wealth Management Advisor
Forbes "Best-in-State Wealth Advisors", 2026
(Published on April 7, 2026. Rankings based on data as of June 30, 2025.)
About Us
Our Philosophy

We believe clear communication with client families is crucial and encourage involving both spouses and grown children in the process. That's why, from the start, we talk about your aspirations and encourage you to ask questions about issues that matter most to you. Considering the sale of a business or purchase of a home? Preparing to pass your wealth to future generations? It all starts with a plan intended to help you manage, grow, and preserve your wealth today, while also considering the impact it can have for years to come.

Our clients deserve a superior level of advice and attention. They should expect transparency and accountability from their wealth management team. These principles serve as the foundation of the enduring relationships we've built. That's why The Clarke Group takes a holistic approach with the aim of building client relationships around people, not portfolios.

Meet Our Team
James Clarke,

CPWA®

Senior Vice President, Wealth Management Advisor
203.662.5531
Taylor Marron
Financial Advisor
203.662.6918
Ari Lander
Officer, Registered Wealth Management Client Associate
203.662.6969
Jessica Serpa
Officer, Wealth Management Client Associate
203.662.5526
Additional Resources
The following specialists do not make securities recommendations. Please contact your Merrill Lynch Wealth Management Advisor if you have questions about how a specialist might be able to assist you.
Avtar Singh
Wealth Management Banking Specialist
Merrill
About Merrill

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.

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Investments & Wealth Institute® (The Institute) is the owner of the certification marks CPWA® and Certified Private Wealth Advisor®. Use of CPWA®, and/or Certified Private Wealth Advisor® signifies that the user has successfully completed the Institute’s initial and ongoing credentialing requirements for wealth advisors.