The iconic bull in the Merrill Lynch logo has remained a prominent symbol even after the company’s acquisition by Bank of America, continuing to represent the firm’s strength and legacy.

Merrill Lynch, founded in 1914 by Charles Merrill and Edmund Lynch, quickly grew into one of the largest brokerage firms in the United States, earning the nickname "the thundering herd" due to the bull imagery associated with its logo. The company became a leader in the financial services industry, attracting investors through its aggressive marketing and the powerful symbolism of the bull, which represented a thriving, rising market—commonly referred to as a "bull market."

The firm’s original logo, introduced in 1914, featured a traditional serif typeface for the wordmark, "Merrill, Lynch & Co.," complemented by ornate, decorative elements that gave it a distinctive character. Over time, the bull icon became synonymous with the brand. The bull, poised to charge, symbolized the strength and dynamism of the market and the company’s aggressive growth strategy.

In 2009, after Merrill Lynch was acquired by Bank of America, the company introduced a more modern logo, with the bull remaining central. The name “Merrill Lynch” was simplified to just “Merrill” in a sans-serif font, and the palette shifted to a brighter blue and white combination. This logo marked a shift towards a more corporate identity, reflecting the company’s integration into the Bank of America group.

In 2019, following further restructuring, the company officially dropped the “Lynch” from its name and became known simply as Merrill, aligning more closely with its parent company. The updated logo features the bull on the right, accompanied by the words "A Bank of America Company" in smaller letters beneath the company name, with a darker shade of blue.

Throughout its history, Merrill Lynch’s logo has evolved from a detailed, ornate design to a simpler and more modern look, reflecting the company’s transition from a standalone entity to a part of Bank of America. Despite the changes, the bull has remained a key symbol of strength and prosperity.