Walter Emmerling

Preparing for Your First Conversation

Our first conversation is an opportunity to get to know one another. We can discuss what is important to you, the questions you would like to address and what you are looking for in a financial advisory relationship. *** ** * ** *** If readily available, it may be helpful to have a general understanding of your: * Current investments and retirement accounts * Income, expenses and anticipated cash needs * Employer benefits and equity compensation * Insurance coverage * Liabilities and lending needs * Estate planning documents * Short\- and long\-term financial priorities *** ** * ** *** Please do not feel that you need to have every document organized or every goal fully defined before contacting me. We can begin with what you know today and identify any additional information that may be helpful as we move forward.

Wealth Management Capabilities and Resources

Financial decisions are often connected. An investment decision may affect your retirement plans, cash flow, borrowing needs, family or legacy. My role is to help you consider those connections while keeping your broader financial picture in view. Through the capabilities of Merrill and access to Bank of America, I can help you evaluate strategies and resources based on your goals, priorities and financial circumstances. *** ** * ** *** Depending on your needs, our conversations may include: * Personalized financial and wealth planning * Investment management * Retirement planning * Education planning * Banking and cash\-management needs * Lending solutions * Insurance and wealth\-protection considerations * Estate planning services and wealth\-transfer considerations * Philanthropic planning * Digital account access and organization *** ** * ** *** Not every capability will be relevant or appropriate for every client. We will begin by understanding what matters to you and then determine which resources may support your financial strategy. # **Explore Merrill Resources** *** ** * ** *** * [Solutions for what matters most](https://mlaem.fs.ml.com/content/dam/ML/Articles/pdf/isg\-brochure\-ada.pdf) * [Estate planning for the whole family](https://www.ml.com/articles/family\-estate\-planning.html) * [Discover MyMerrill](https://www.ml.com/my\-merrill\-online\-mobile\-app.html) * [Investing \& Banking Together](https://www.ml.com/articles/mymerrill\-digital\-capabilities.html) * [Consolidating at Merrill](https://www.ml.com/solutions/investment\-account\-consolidation.html) ~Banking products are provided by Bank of America, N.A. and affiliated banks, Members FDIC and wholly owned subsidiaries of Bank of America Corporation.~

Understanding Merrill Services and Costs

A comfortable working relationship begins with clarity. That includes understanding the services being considered, how those services would support your needs and what costs may apply. There are different ways to work with Merrill, including investment advisory services, brokerage services or a combination of both. Investment advisory relationships generally charge an annual fee based on a percentage of the assets in the applicable account. Brokerage relationships may involve transaction\-based fees, sales charges or other costs. Additional account, product and service fees may also apply. Before you make a decision, we will discuss the services being considered, how you would pay for them and the applicable documents and disclosures. I want you to understand your choices and feel comfortable asking questions before deciding which approach may be appropriate for you. *** ** * ** *** You can learn more by reviewing [Merrill's brokerage and investment advisory services and fees.](https://www.ml.com/solutions/understanding\-our\-services\-and\-fees\-when\-you\-work\-with\-an\-advisor.html)

Start a Conversation With Walter

You do not need to have every answer, document or financial goal fully defined before reaching out. Sometimes the most useful first step is simply having a conversation. During an introductory conversation, we can discuss what is on your mind, where you may need guidance and what you would like to accomplish. It is also an opportunity for you to learn more about my approach and determine whether working together could be a good fit. Whether you are developing a financial plan, preparing for retirement, reviewing your investments or simply looking for greater financial organization, we can begin with where you are today. **When you are ready, use the "Get in Touch" button to request a conversation.** *** ** * ** *** Please feel free to reach out via phone at [(910)256\-7723](tel:+19102567723) or email at [walter.emmerling@ml.com](mailto:walter.emmerling@ml.com)

Personalized planning

**Helping you create a personalized plan** At Merrill, we go beyond the traditional role of an advisor. * Your goals, concerns and attitude about investing are the foundation of your plan. * We actively listen and provide personalized advice — ensuring we understand what matters most to you and your family. * We're committed to creating a personalized plan that evolves with you to help you live well today while preparing for the future.

Team and resources

**Giving you access to our teams and solutions** Your advisor is one part of an experienced team dedicated to helping you achieve your goals. Acting as your single point of contact, your advisor provides personalized strategies and connects you with: * Bank of America specialists, such as mortgage or trust professionals * Timely insights from BofA Global Research1 to help you stay informed and navigate ever\-changing markets * A [full suite](https://www.ml.com/solutions/all.html) of Merrill investing and Bank of America banking solutions ^1^~BofA Global Research is research produced by BofA Securities, Inc. ("BofAS") and/or one or more of its affiliates. BofAS is a registered broker\-dealer, [Member SIPC](http://www.sipc.org/), and wholly owned subsidiary of Bank of America Corporation ("BofA Corp.").~

Recognition