
Company History Timeline
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1956
Merrill Lynch is selected as one of seven managers to bring Ford Motor Company public. The $600 million offering sets a record that lasts for nine years and gives the firm its first billion-dollar underwriting year.
Charles E. Merrill passes away on 6 October at the age of 70.
1958
The firm changes its name from Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner and Beane to Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith, is incorporated and joins the board of the New York Stock Exchange.