Haselkorn & Thibaut has opened an investigation into Stephen Hlibok, a Columbia, Maryland-based financial advisor registered with Merrill Lynch, following recent investor complaints. If you have concerns regarding your investments or accounts handled by Mr. Hlibok, this comprehensive review provides everything you need to know, including red flags, his complaint history, credentials, and your next steps as an investor.
Who Is Stephen Hlibok (Merrill Lynch, Columbia, MD)?
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Stephen Hlibok (CRD# 1728900) is a long-tenured financial advisor and broker registered with Merrill Lynch, based in Columbia, Maryland. He has been in the securities industry for nearly four decades, starting his tenure with Merrill Lynch in 1987 as a broker, and later also registering as an investment advisor in 1990. Mr. Hlibok is currently listed as an active representative of Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Inc.
Professional Background and Credentials
- Industry Experience: 38 years
- Merrill Lynch Registration: Since 1987 (Broker) / 1990 (Investment Advisor)
- Industry Exams Passed:
- Securities Industry Essentials Examination (SIE)
- Uniform Investment Adviser Law Examination (Series 65)
- Uniform Securities Agent State Law Examination (Series 63)
- General Securities Representative Examination (Series 7)
- State Licenses: 37 U.S. states
Mr. Hlibok’s credentials indicate he has met the regulatory requirements needed to practice as a financial advisor and broker. His extensive licensure and decades-long career reflect a significant commitment to the industry.
Complete List of Complaints for Stephen Hlibok (Columbia, MD)
While a longstanding record in the financial industry often reflects stability and reliability, it is critical for investors to review an advisor’s history of investor complaints and disclosed events:
| Date | Allegation Type | Product Involved | Status | Claimed Damages | Outcome/Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| September 2025 | Unauthorized Trades | Over-the-counter stock products | Pending | $337,668.75 | Alleged unauthorized trading as a Merrill Lynch representative. Complaint remains pending as of last update. |
| 2003 | Unsuitable Recommendations | Over-the-counter stock products | Denied | $592,000 | Merrill Lynch denied the claim. Mr. Hlibok stated the client bought the stock elsewhere and the firm had to resolve a resulting short position. |
No regulatory actions, public civil lawsuits, or SEC/FINRA enforcement proceedings are currently on record for Stephen Hlibok, according to major industry regulatory databases and a web search up to November 2025.
What Red Flags Should Investors Watch For?
Even one investor complaint can impact trust; two complaints, especially those involving significant damages and allegations like unauthorized trading or unsuitable recommendations, should prompt investors to closely review their portfolios and communications. Key risk signals that investors should pay close attention to include:
- Alleged unauthorized trades: Any purchase or sale made in a client account without clear, documented authorization.
- Unsuitable investment recommendations: Advisors must ensure that products recommended align with a client’s individual goals, risk tolerance, and financial situation.
- Consistent complaints involving similar product types: Multiple complaints involving over-the-counter stocks can indicate pattern risks relating to high volatility or low-liquidity instruments.
- Lack of transparency or communication: If you have unanswered questions or concerns about account activity, this is a crucial red flag.
How to Check an Advisor’s Regulatory History
- Investors can independently view an advisor’s regulatory record at FINRA BrokerCheck, which provides a summary of licenses, exam history, and customer complaints.
- For more in-depth review and legal guidance, Haselkorn & Thibaut offers a thorough, confidential assessment of your investments—with no recover, no fee guarantee.
Engage with Haselkorn & Thibaut—Your Next Step
If you suspect improper activity, have experienced unexplained losses, or simply want peace of mind about your investments with Stephen Hlibok at Merrill Lynch, you are entitled to professional guidance. Haselkorn & Thibaut, a leading national investment fraud law firm with over 50 years of combined experience and a 98% client success rate, has helped recover millions of dollars for investors just like you.
- There is no cost for your initial consultation—and no fees unless there is a recovery for you.
- Your inquiry is always confidential.
- Guidance is rooted in decades of experience pursuing claims for investment losses nationwide.
To discuss your rights or obtain a free, private case review, call Haselkorn & Thibaut today at 1-888-994-8066.
Summary Table: Stephen Hlibok (Merrill Lynch, Columbia, MD) At-A-Glance
| Name / CRD | Stephen Hlibok / 1728900 |
|---|---|
| Broker-Dealer | Merrill Lynch |
| Location | Columbia, Maryland |
| Industry Experience | 38 years |
| Complaints on Record | Two (most recent pending as of Nov 2025) |
| Regulatory Actions / Lawsuits | None found in major databases |
| Free Consultation | Call 1-888-994-8066 |
Your investments are too important to leave to chance. If you believe your interests may have been compromised or want a careful review of your accounts with Stephen Hlibok at Merrill Lynch, don’t wait. Haselkorn & Thibaut is here to help.
Call 1-888-994-8066 for a free, confidential consultation—protect your financial future today.
