Investigation of Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated Broker Ernest Frerking

Merrill Lynch

Erez Law is currently investigating Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated broker Ernest Frerking (CRD# 2588177) regarding broker misconduct. He has been registered with Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated in Austin, Texas from 1999 to 2021, when he was terminated regarding, “Conduct including failure to adhere to Firm standards regarding the servicing of a client and entering into a financial arrangement with a client without the Firm’s knowledge or approval.”

In August 2022, FINRA barred him after he “consented to the sanction and to the entry of findings that he refused to appear for on-the-record testimony requested by FINRA. The findings stated that this matter originated from a FINRA Rule 4530 filing by Frerking’s member firm.”

Ernest Frerking Customer Complaints

He has been the subject of one customer complaint, according to his CRD report:

July 2020. “The Attorney for the deceased customers’ estate alleges misappropriation of funds from July 1999 until July 2020.” The customer is seeking $200,000 in damages and the case is currently pending. 

Pursuant to FINRA Rules, member firms are responsible for supervising a broker’s activities during the time the broker is registered with the firm. Therefore, Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated may be liable for investment or other losses suffered by Ernest Frerking’s customers.

Erez Law represents investors in the United States for claims against brokers and brokerage firms for wrongdoing. If you have experienced investment losses, please call us at 888-840-1571 or complete our contact form for a free consultation. Erez Law is a nationally recognized law firm representing individuals, trusts, corporations and institutions in claims against brokerage firms, banks and insurance companies on a contingency fee basis.

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