The Merrill Lynch logo, particularly the iconic bull, has remained a symbol of strength and resilience, even as the company evolved and eventually became part of Bank of America. The bull, representing the "thundering herd" of brokers, was a constant reminder of the company's aggressive approach to growth and investment, symbolizing prosperity in a rising market. This enduring emblem, despite the company's changes, continues to hold significance in the world of finance.

The History of Merrill Lynch

Founded in 1914 by Charles Merrill and Edmund Lynch, Merrill Lynch grew into one of the most prominent names in the world of investments and financial services. The company’s brokers were known for their strength and energy, often referred to as the “thundering herd” due to the powerful bull on the logo. The company’s investment strategies attracted numerous Americans to participate in the stock market, and it eventually became one of the largest investment banks in the world.

In the 2000s, Merrill Lynch pursued an aggressive growth strategy under CEO Stanley O'Neal, which ultimately led to financial troubles and the company’s sale to Bank of America in 2008.

What Is Merrill Lynch?

Merrill Lynch was a renowned American investment bank that specialized in brokerage, asset management, and related financial services. The company’s history dates back to the early 20th century, and by the time it was acquired by Bank of America, Merrill Lynch had become a key player in the global financial market.

1914–2009: The Early Logo and the Iconic Bull

The original Merrill Lynch logo, introduced in 1914, was a blend of classic and decorative typefaces. The design balanced legibility with unique flourishes, giving the brand a distinctive identity. Alongside the lettering, the first version of the emblem featured a powerful bull poised to charge—symbolizing strength, aggression, and the rising "bull market" in which share prices increase. This image was a promise of prosperity for investors and became synonymous with the company's identity.

The logo also included a shortened version of the brand name, “Merrill Lynch,” in a bold serif type, with the initial letters capitalized for emphasis. The clean yet impactful design solidified Merrill Lynch as a reputable and authoritative financial institution.

2009–2019: A Simpler, More Modern Design

After Merrill Lynch was acquired by Bank of America, the logo underwent significant changes. The updated logo, introduced in 2009, retained the bull symbol but made the design cleaner and more modern. The wordmark was simplified to a sans-serif type, and the new color palette featured a brighter shade of blue combined with white, reflecting a fresh approach to the brand’s image.

Additionally, the words “Bank of America Corporation” appeared below the logo, indicating Merrill Lynch's integration into the Bank of America family.

2019–Present: The Transition to "Merrill"

In 2019, Merrill Lynch's name was officially shortened to “Merrill” as part of its continued integration with Bank of America. The updated logo now displays the word “Merrill” in all-caps sans-serif type, with the bull icon moved to the right. The accompanying text “A Bank of America Company” appears beneath the logo, in smaller all-caps sans-serif letters. The color of the logo has also deepened to a darker shade of blue, aligning with Bank of America’s branding while maintaining the legacy of Merrill Lynch.

The Evolution of the Font

Throughout its history, the Merrill Lynch logo has seen a shift in typography. The original ornate typeface was eventually replaced by a more serious serif font and, later, a simplified sans-serif design. This transition mirrored the company’s evolution from a traditional investment firm to a modern, streamlined division within Bank of America.

Merrill Today: A Division of Bank of America

Today, Merrill is a leading wealth management division of Bank of America, offering prime brokerage services, wealth management, and financial advisory. Based in New York City, Merrill employs over 14,000 financial advisors, continuing its legacy of providing trusted investment services to clients across the globe.