Mario L Martinez of Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Inc. Permanently Barred Following Allegations Of Borrowing Funds From A Client

Mario L Martinez (CRD# 6144561), a financial advisor formerly associated with Bank of America’s Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Inc. in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, was recently permanently barred from the securities industry. Martinez had been working at Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Inc for 9 years in the Merrill Edge unit.

Prior to working at Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Inc he was employed at AXA Advisors LLC in Miami, FL for almost two years.

A client had put in a tip that he had taken a loan from a client, “among other things.”  Martinez did not comply with FINRA’s requests for documents and information related to its investigation into the matter. While he neither admitted nor denied the regulator’s findings, the details of the “among other things” cited in the allegations remain unclear. However, it is certain that accepting a loan from a client is unethical and prohibited.

On January 6, 2025 Mario Martinez voluntarily resigned due to the allegations of, “Conduct including misappropriation of client funds and accepting a loan from a client without the Firm’s knowledge or approval.”

Did You Invest with Mario L 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.