Ellison Kibler ranked #18 nationwide on the Barron’s “Top 250 Private Wealth Management Teams” 2026 list

May 18, 2026

Ellison Kibler announced that the firm has been ranked #18 in the nation on the Barron’s “Top 250 Private Wealth Management Teams” 2026 list, published on May 8, 2026. Rankings were based on data as of December 31, 2025.

This marks the third consecutive year the firm has been recognized on this prestigious list. The team is deeply grateful for the trust clients place in the firm and for the continued opportunity to serve them.

Founded in 1983, Ellison Kibler was established with the goal of delivering a superior wealth management experience paired with exceptional client service. Serving affluent families, corporations, endowments, and foundations, the firm operates from offices in Columbia and Charlotte.

Clients benefit from the expansive resources and capabilities of Merrill and Bank of America, delivered through a boutique-style approach that emphasizes customization, accessibility, and accountability. Guided by core principles of teamwork and trust, the team works collaboratively—often alongside clients’ accounting and legal professionals—to help enhance financial clarity and support informed decision-making.

For more than 40 years, our focus has remained consistent: providing thoughtful guidance, objective advice, and steady support through every stage of a client’s financial journey. Whether addressing today’s complexities or planning for tomorrow’s opportunities, the team is committed to helping clients align their financial strategies with their broader personal and organizational goals.

Disclosures
Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.
Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated (also referred to as “MLPF&S” or “Merrill”) makes available certain investment products sponsored, managed, distributed or provided by companies that are affiliates of Bank of America Corporation (“BofA Corp.”). MLPF&S is a registered broker-dealer, registered investment adviser, Member SIPC and a wholly owned subsidiary of BofA Corp.
Investment products offered through MLPF&S and insurance and annuity products offered through Merrill Lynch Life Agency Inc. (“MLLA”):
Are Not FDIC Insured Are Not Bank Guaranteed May Lose Value
Are Not Deposits Are Not Insured by Any Federal Government Agency Are Not a Condition to Any Banking Service or Activity
**2026 Barron’s “Top 250 Private Wealth Management Teams” list. Opinions provided by SHOOK® Research, LLC and is based on in-person, virtual and telephone due-diligence meetings that measure best practices, client retention, industry experience, credentials, compliance records, firm nominations, assets under management and Firm-generated revenue (investment performance is not a criterion). SHOOK’s rankings are available for client evaluation only, are not indicative of future performance and do not represent any one client’s experience and available for investor help in evaluating the right financial advisor and should not be considered an endorsement of the advisor. Compensation was not received from anyone for the study. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Details available at the SHOOK Research website. SHOOK is a registered trademark of SHOOK Research, LLC.
Merrill, its affiliates and financial advisors do not provide legal, tax or accounting advice. You should consult your legal and/or tax advisors before making any financial decisions.
Merrill offers a broad range of brokerage, investment advisory (including financial planning) and other services. There are important differences between brokerage and investment advisory services, including the type of advice and assistance provided, the fees charged, and the rights and obligations of the parties. It is important to understand the differences, particularly when determining which service or services to select.
Merrill Private Wealth Management is a division of MLPF&S that offers a broad array of personalized wealth management products and services. Both brokerage and investment advisory services are offered by the Private Wealth Advisors through MLPF&S. The nature and degree of advice and assistance provided, the fees charged, and client rights and Merrill’s obligations will differ among these services. Investments involve risk, including the possible loss of principal investment.
MLLA is a licensed insurance agency and a wholly owned subsidiary of BofA Corp.
Banking, mortgage and home equity products are offered by Bank of America, N.A., and affiliated banks, Members FDIC and wholly owned subsidiaries of BofA Corp. Equal Housing Lender. Credit and collateral are subject to approval.
Terms and conditions apply. This is not a commitment to lend. Programs, rates, terms and conditions are subject to change without notice.
The Bull Symbol, Merrill and What would you like the power to do? are registered trademarks of Bank of America Corporation.
© 2025 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved.