Fries Bates Ford Wealth Management & Associates
Merrill Lynch Wealth Management
110 N Wacker Dr
Chicago IL 60606
(312) 696.2149
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The Fries Bates Ford Wealth Management Group is an energized team of diverse and talented professionals that assists an equally diverse clientele of ambitious individuals. As an extension of the Fries Wealth Management Group, we are supported by a larger team. And with a planning-based approach that’s been honed for more than 20 years, we are well equipped to help clients explore and prioritize their goals for themselves, their families and their communities.
Welcome

We deliver a boutique level of personal service and attention that focuses on building a personal relationship beyond that of most financial advisors. By educating and coaching our clients at every opportunity and prepared to meet real life challenges that can encumber clients’ ability to make wise and unhurried financial decisions.


Our conversations and solutions are focused on your goals and incorporate all of your assets and liabilities, including real estate, capital markets, privately held businesses, trust and estate/insurance planning. In addition to that, we will be sure to discuss your intangibles, including your human capital, the financial security of your loved ones as well as building a legacy.

Recognition
Jessica Bates
Vice President, Senior Financial Advisor
Forbes "America’s Top Wealth Management Teams High Net Worth", 2022-2024
(Published annually in November. Rankings based on data as of March 31 of current year.)
Forbes "Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams", 2023-2025
(Published annually in January. Rankings based on data as of March 31 of prior year.)
About Us
Our Clients

While unique in their circumstances, a typical client comes to us for a holistic and realistic financial strategy that addresses what's on their mind and in their heart. Many clients also want to avoid previous mistakes and emotional decisions. Often, they ask for straightforward advice and guidance that may be difficult to hear, but in their best interest.Our clients consist of a variety of high performers, including successful executives, successful business owners, consultants, private equity and venture capitalists, tech and other entrepreneurs, partners at law firms and consulting firms and physicians.Our sports & entertainment group focuses on professional athletes in the NBA, NFL, MLB, USA Track and Field, as well as front office staff and coaches. We also work closely with actors, musicians and models.Ultimately, we are here to provide a superior wealth management experience to clients, with a background that resonates with them. It would be our pleasure to assist you with the same measure of passion and professionalism.

Meet Our Team
Daniel Fries,

CFP®, CPFA®, CRPC™

Managing Director, Wealth Management Advisor
312.696.2121
Jessica Bates
Vice President, Senior Financial Advisor
312.696.2090
Lafayette Ford
Senior Financial Advisor
312.696.2149
Kristina M Noth,

CLU®

Vice President, Senior Business Manager
312.696.2118
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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Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. (CFP Board) owns the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®, and the CFP® (with plaque design) in the United States, which it authorizes use of by individuals who successfully complete CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements.
Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor™, CRPC™, and the CRPC™ logo are certification marks or registered certification marks of The College for Financial Planning Institutes Corp. in the United States.
CLU® and Chartered Life Underwriter® marks are the property of The American College of Financial Services, which reserves the sole rights to its use, and is used by permission.