Merrill Guided Investing is offered with and without an advisor. Merrill, Merrill Lynch, and/or Merrill Edge investment advisory programs are offered by Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner and Smith Incorporated (“MLPF&S”). MLPF&S and Managed Account Advisors LLC (“MAA”) are registered investment advisors. SEC.gov | Merrill Lynch Settles SEC Charges of Undisclosed ... Aug 20, 2018 · The Securities and Exchange Commission today announced that Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith has agreed to pay approximately $8.9 million to settle charges that it failed to disclose a conflict of interest arising out of its own business interests in deciding whether to continue to offer clients products managed by an outside third-party advisory firm.