FINRA Permanently Bars Broker Mario Martinez Following Customer Loan

Mario Martinez (Mario L. Martinez, CRD# 6144561) is a former registered broker and investment advisor last employed with Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated (CRD# 7691) of Fort Lauderdale, FL. He was previously employed with AXA Advisors, LLC (CRD# 6627) of Miami, FL, and has been in the industry since 2013.

On December 18, 2024, a customer filed a dispute alleging that Martinez misappropriated funds, and that she also loaned money to him. The dispute was settled for $331,242.55. No additional information is available.

On January 6, 2025, Martinez resigned from Merrill Lynch, where he was under an internal review. The firm filed a Uniform Termination Notice for Securities Industry Registration (Form U5) on February 5, 2025, indicating that Martinez voluntarily resigned. He was under review for the allegations of misappropriation of client funds and accepting a loan from a client without the firm’s knowledge or approval.

FINRA then began its investigation which included a provided tip, and notified Martinez on February 14, 2025, requesting information pursuant to FINRA Rule 8210. Then on February 18, Martinez’s legal counsel notified FINRA in an email that he would not be providing any related information or documentation for this matter at any time. Martinez’s refusal violates FINRA Rules 8210 and 2010.

Following this refusal, FINRA issued a Letter of Acceptance, Waiver, and Consent (AWC), which included the sanction of being barred from any affiliation with any FINRA member. Martinez signed the letter on April 21, 2025, and it became effective on May 1, 2025.

Broker Loans

Investors should never loan money directly to their broker without explicit permission from the broker’s firm. Doing so bypasses important regulatory safeguards, increases the risk of fraud or misconduct, and may violate compliance rules. Funds not handled through the proper channels lack protection, and investors could lose their money with little recourse. Always confirm with the firm before entering any private financial arrangements with your broker.

Did You Invest With Mario Martinez? 

Silver Law Group represents investors in securities and investment fraud cases. Our lawyers are admitted to practice in New York and Florida and represent investors nationwide to help recover investment losses due to stockbroker misconduct. If you have any questions about how your account has been handled, call to speak with an experienced securities attorney. Most cases are handled on a contingent fee basis, meaning that you won’t owe us until we recover your money for you. Contact us today at (800) 975-4345 and let us know how we can help.