Platform Comparison

Merrill Edge vs Stash

Detailed side-by-side comparison to help you choose the best platform for dividend investing

Higher Rated
ME

Merrill Edge

★4.5

Bank of America's brokerage offering seamless banking integration, solid research tools, and the valuable Preferred Rewards program for qualifying customers.

Full Review
ST

Stash

★4

A beginner-friendly investing app with the unique Stock-Back card that rewards your spending with fractional shares instead of cash back.

Full Review

Feature Comparison

FeatureMerrill EdgeStash
Our Rating4.5/54/5
Trading Commissions$0N/A
Account Minimum$0$0
Fractional SharesDRIP onlyN/A
DRIPFreeAutomatic
Research ToolsGoodBasic
Best ForBank of America CustomersStock-Back Enthusiasts

Pros & Cons

Merrill Edge

Pros

  • + Commission-free trading on stocks and ETFs
  • + Seamless integration with Bank of America accounts
  • + Selective DRIP—choose which securities reinvest dividends
  • + DRIP supports fractional share reinvestment
  • + Preferred Rewards program offers fee discounts and bonuses

Cons

  • - No direct fractional share purchases (DRIP only)
  • - Mutual fund transaction fees up to $19.95
  • - Low interest rate on uninvested cash
  • - $49.95 full account transfer fee

Stash

Pros

  • + Stock-Back debit card earns fractional shares on purchases
  • + Both DIY and Smart Portfolio (automated) investing options
  • + Automatic dividend reinvestment in managed accounts
  • + Fractional shares let you invest any amount
  • + Round-up investing available

Cons

  • - Monthly fees can be expensive for small balances
  • - No tax-loss harvesting available
  • - Stock-Back rewards are modest (0.125% base rate)
  • - Some ETFs have higher expense ratios than alternatives

Which Platform is Right for You?

Choose Merrill Edge if you...

  • Want bank of america customers focused features
  • Prefer a higher-rated overall platform

Choose Stash if you...

  • Want stock-back enthusiasts focused features
  • Need automatic dividend reinvestment

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Investment Disclaimer

Investing involves risk, including possible loss of principal. Past performance does not guarantee future results. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered investment advice.