Merrill Edge is an innovative new way to invest online with a personalized experience that can simplify how you choose investments and help you make more informed decisions — so you can manage your portfolio with the tools to help you invest with confidence. The self guided program is a streamlined investing platform giving you access to research and insights, step-by-step guidance and flexible tools. The guided program is an investment advisory program that combines the best features of online investing with a professionally managed portfolio — all at a low cost.

Stock price appreciation + dividends. For reference: according to historical records, the average annual return from the S&P Index since its inception in 1926 through 2018 is approximately 10%–11%. The average annual return since adopting 500 stocks into the index in 1957 through 2018 is roughly 8%. Adjusted for inflation, the historical average annual return is around 7%. However, it's important to note that each Robo has their own investment strategy that can influence returns.

Merrill makes money by charging a .45% Annually for access to their robo advisor service.

Investing entails risk including the possible loss of principal and there is no assurance that the investment will provide positive performance over any period of time.