Merrill Financial Advisors Named as Forbes' 2021 "Best-in-State"

Six Merrill financial advisors based in Troy, Mi have been recognized on the Forbes 2021 "Best-in-State Wealth Advisors" list. The wealth management advisors are Marie Vanerian and Abraham Post. The private wealth advisors are Matthew Bucher, Dana Locniskar, Frank Migliazzo and Thomas Pursel. Recognition on this list is an industry honor and acknowledgment of their accomplishments. Merrill holds the No. 1 position of all firms, with 1,319 total advisors recognized on this list, including 1,168 Financial Advisors (FAs) and 151 Private Wealth Advisors (PWAs). This marks the fourth consecutive year for Merrill in the No. 1 spot.

Matt Bucher joined Merrill in 1983. As a Private Wealth Advisor, he focuses on addressing the investment objectives and wealth management needs of ultra-affluent clients. He has particular depth in the investment markets, including equities, fixed income, and alternative investments. Matt holds a B.A. in Business from Michigan State University.

Dana Locniskar has built an investment group in wealth management for high net-worth individuals, families and institutions. He focuses on wealth management, concentrated stock strategies, philanthropic planning, trust and estate planning services. Dana joined Merrill Lynch in 1970 . He serves on the boards of the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan, City Year and the Futures Foundation.

Frank Migliazzo has served with Merrill Lynch since 1979. He crafts investment portfolios that anticipate and respond to varied market environments. Frank has a bachelor’s degree from Western Michigan University and a master’s of business administration degree from the University of Detroit.

Thomas Pursel works closely with affluent individuals, families, and institutions to create customized wealth management strategies and advice. He began his career at Merrill in 1983. He holds a B.A. from the University of Michigan. Tom is the Michigan board chair for the American Cancer Society.

Marie Vanerian began her career at Merrill in 1977. Marie provides institutional investment consulting and advisory services to a broad range of discriminating global clients including foundations, endowments, religious organizations, pension plans, and multi-generation private family offices. She has a bachelor's degree in economics from Michigan State University.

Abraham Post offers strategies to help individuals and families pursue their financial goals. In addition, he provides guidance to businesses on their company-sponsored retirement plans and holds a Chartered Retirement Planning CounselorSM (CRPC®) designation. Abe began his financial services career at Merrill in 1992. He graduated from Wayne State University with a bachelor's degree in finance.